Vincent may have been my husband’s cousin, but he became my cousin and my dear friend too.

Vince may have been my husband’s cousin, but he became my cousin and one of my dear friends too.

Thirty-six years was nowhere near enough time for someone who was so deeply loved. Vince had the absolute best laugh—the kind of laugh you could never forget and that instantly made everyone around him smile. I will always treasure the way he remembered me every Mother’s Day with a thoughtful text. Those messages meant more to me than he probably ever knew.

One more funny story I will always remember: Vince once sent me a message on Facebook about playing Candy Crush, even though I didn’t play it. I later found out that my husband had been sending Candy Crush requests to all of my Facebook friends. I’m just so glad Vince didn’t block me!

I will always cherish the unforgettable trips we shared. I’m so grateful we were able to go to Notre Dame, tailgate together, and watch the Utes play. On another special trip to Chicago, the boys went to a Cubs game while the girls got to see Nadia and her wedding dress fitting. During that trip, Nadia taught me how to drive in Chicago. It pretty much went like, “Close your eyes and just go!” We made so many wonderful memories together, and they mean more to me now than I could ever put into words.

I’m also incredibly grateful for all the memories we made together this summer. I never imagined those moments would become some of our last, but I will hold them close to my heart for the rest of my life.

The last thing I ever did with Vince was ride Cannibal at Lagoon. I can’t wait to share that same memory with his children someday and tell them all about the fun, laughter, and memories I was so lucky to share with their dad.

Vince leaves behind the most wonderful wife, two beautiful young children, and amazing parents who loved him beyond measure. My heart breaks for all of them. His love and legacy will continue through his children, his family, and every person fortunate enough to know him.

I will always be grateful that I got to call Vince family and, even more importantly, my friend. I will miss his unforgettable laugh, his kindness, those Mother’s Day texts, and even his unexpected Candy Crush message. I will miss him more than words could ever express.

Rest peacefully, Vince. You were deeply loved, you will never be forgotten, and the memories we made will remain in our hearts forever.