In loving memory of

Jaxen Mark Kettler
September 4, 2013 - July 24, 2016

Jaxen Mark Kettler, age 2, of Cheat Lake, passed away Sunday evening, July 24, 2016 in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Ruby Memorial Hospital with his family by his side, following a brief fight against cancer. Born September 4, 2013 in Morgantown, WV, he is the son of Andrew Thomas and Kimbraly Ann (Holtgrave) Kettler. In addition to his parents, Jaxen is survived by his sister Brynley Kettler; his paternal grandparents, Tom and Rita Kettler of Cincinnati, OH; and his maternal grandmother, Patricia Holtgrave of Cincinnati, OH as well as many loved aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Mark Holtgrave of Cincinnati, OH. Jaxen was a very active child. You could always find him running, climbing, jumping or wrestling with his dad. But he was definitely a momma's boy. He was always happy and excited to be with his mom, he gave the best hugs. He loved playing with his sister, toy cars, dinosaurs, loved Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, and would never turn his head away from the TV when PJ Masks was on. He lit up any room he was in with his smile. Friends may join the family to celebrate Jaxen's life at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, One Guthrie Lane, Morgantown on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 from 11:00 AM until the celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00 PM with Father Carlos Melocoton as celebrant. In keeping with the wishes of the family, Jaxen will be cremated following the Funeral Mass.In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jaxen's memory may be made to WVU Children's Hospital, One Stadium Dr., Morgantown, WV 26506.Professional services are under the direction of Smith Funeral & Cremation Care, 108 Holland Ave. , Morgantown.To send personal condolences and other symbolic gestures, please visit www.smithfuneralandcremationcare.com.

Tributes

Gloria Hartman wrote on Jul 28, 2016:

"What a beautiful angel........God is holding him now, so no more pain for him. I am so sorry for your loss of your little sweetheart. I saw this on my friend Grace Ore's facebook, from Clendenin. I live in Michigan, and I could not stop the tears for you. My husband and I will say a Rosary for Jaxen and for you. God's grace, be with you. Gloria Hartman May the perpetual light shine upon him."

Doug Veselsky wrote on Jul 28, 2016:

"Kim and Andy I was shocked to hear of your loss. My heart breaks for the both of you. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry."

Kimberly Schultz wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"I didn't know you all but I am so sorry for the loss of your son he looked like he was a pleasure to have around just with his smile a blessing to have may you all find peace and comfort in this time of need You had one special kid there by looking at the pics of the video again so sorry.may he rest in peace"

Jody ward-Alexis papaw wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Heart breaking news,so sorry for your loss"

Sharon Eckert wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Dear Andy, Kimbraly, Brynley and family, Our son, Zach Eckert has kept us updated through Jaxen's illness and passing. We have been upholding Jaxen and all of you in our prayers throughout Jaxen's illness. Our hearts are filled with grief also. We, as well as our family, friends and church families will continue to pray for comfort and peace for all of you in the days ahead. I know that Jaxen brought much love and sweetness to your lives during his short time that he was on this earth. I pray that those sweet memories will bring you some measure of comfort in the days ahead. God bless all of you. Sharon and Brian Eckert"

Candy & Joe Palmer wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Our deepest sympathy to your family on the loss of your beloved son. Our heart is with you in prayer. We know there are now words that can heal your hurt but know that we are praying with you and for you. Love, Candy & Joe Palmer"

Esther Rankin wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"There are no words at a time like this, however there are many prayers. Prayers for comfort and strength and peace...Please know that I will be lifting you up daily in my prayers as well as many of your family members and friends. Jeremiah 31:13 says "I will turn their mourning into joy; I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow." My prayer is that you will remember the joy your precious Jaxen has brought to your family and in those memories, you will be comforted. Take care. My love, prayers and hugs, Esther Rankin"

William and Hazel Denight wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Dear Kimbraly and Andy, It has been too long since we have communicated and we are very sad to do so under these circumstances. We imagine there is no pain more far-reaching and deeper than losing a child. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family at this most difficult time. Love William and Hazel Denight"

Dianna Roupe wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Prayers for the family and friends of this precious angel. I send my deepest sympathy. There's nothing harder than losing a child. Keep your memories close to your heart. Know that God has taken him for a reason, I know that doesn't help right now, but know that Jaxen has no more pain and discomfort. I am so sorry for your loss."

CHARLOTTE PISINO wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"I'm so sorry for your loss of your sweet child . I pray for you as you go threw the loss of your beautiful baby. May Jesus give you peace as Jaxen is in the arms of Jesus."

Diane Rudash wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"I share my deepest sympathy for the loss of Jaxen. Celebrating his memories from the past will help with the difficult times in the future. His spirit will forever stay in all of our hearts. My prayers are with you all. Diane Rudash"

June Huggins wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"There are no words that will help you through this but knowing that Jaxen is finally at peace now and in a very special place of heaven. I'm so sorry for your loss and that you have to endure a kind of pain no one should. Please know that we are here for you if you need anything. Love you all and prayers for your healing."

Lindsay White Funk wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"Dear Kim and Family, I'm so very very very sorry for your loss. I have not seen you since the Dance Team days at UC, and I never met your little boy, but I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you and praying for you all. Just looking at the pictures of Jaxen, I can tell that he was a happy little guy and was very loved. Lindsay White Funk"

Milinda Shumiloff wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"So very sorry for your loss this storie of Jax broke my heart ..... I watched the video of pictures through out his life what a beautiful lil fella God must have plans for him in heaven.....God give you peace to get you through your loss...prayers."

Kathy Lenhart & Family wrote on Jul 27, 2016:

"I just want to send my condolences to your family, I'm so very very sorry and just know that God had a better plan for him in his palace in the sky so don't you be scared for your little Angel for he just gained his little wings, God Bless you"

Phil Gallo wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Phil Gallo sent a floral arrangement."

Jason and Danielle Eilert and family wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"We are so sorry for the loss of your son Jaxen. We extend our deepest condolences to your family."

Mildred king wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Prayers for tha family. God be with them in this time of sorrow"

Jason Kellerman wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I'm very sorry Kim. I'm praying for you and your family."

Kelly Ayers wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Kelly Ayers sent a floral arrangement."

Suzi Bragg wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"My heart goes out to you and many prayers lifted up to our Heavenly Father. I had seen your little angel when I happen to be at my daughter's (Dawn Bragg HIcks) work one day. I remember meeting you and your Jaxen. We do not understand always the WHY's in our life, but we know the WHO to go to in prayer during those journeys of WHY to find comfort that only he can give. May our Heavenly Father embrace you and your family through these days. The bible says that God bottles up every tear, it also says in God's promise that we will be united again with our loved ones in Heaven. Much love and prayers."

Diana Wensyel wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I'm so sorry about your loss. No child should ever have to go through this. Also no parent should have to bear the pain of losing a child. Prayers for your family an friends.RIPJaxen."

Susan Hardy wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I am so very sorry for the loss of this beautiful child. I don't know you, and never met him, but his picture tugged at my heart. I pray for the peace and grace of our almighty Lord to surround your family."

John & Angie Hawkins wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Praying for you ."

Wesley Brown Sr wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Wesley Brown Sr sent a floral arrangement."

janie graham wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I am so sorry for the loss of little Jaxen. Your hearts will always be filled with love for him. God bless Jaxen and all of his family."

Kelsey Harrison wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Kelsey Harrison sent a floral arrangement."

Trista Jefferson wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I can't think of any words that could come close to comforting you right now. Praying for you all. God bless sweet Jaxen and your family."

Ashley Nickelson wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Jaxen was such a sweet soul! My prayers are with you all during his difficult time. Thank you for allowing me into your lives and the privilege of caring for him in the PICU. He sure was loved!!!"

Chantal Belosic wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Thinking of your family during this difficult time...."

Karen & Spencer Ellis wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Hi there. We are close friends of Janet. We never met Jaxen, but he has been in our thoughts & prayers every day since we found out that he was ill. We just wanted to say how sorry we are for your loss. We have a huge group of family & friends back here in Ohio, Indiana & Kentucky that are praying for you and your family right now."

Sabrina Ragan wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Sabrina Ragan sent a floral arrangement."

The Hartleys wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kimbraly and Brynley, We are so very saddened to hear about Jaxen. We cannot begin to understand your pain but we pray for God to bless, comfort and strengthen you all. Dan, Tara, Mallory and Ethan Hartley"

Gina Marcucci wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"My husband and I will be praying for all of your hearts~ may God wrap His arms around you. We will continue to lift you up, our hearts are breaking ror you."

Debbie and Mike Mulvaney wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Dear Kim and family , our prayers and thoughts are with you all ,."

Maryann Russo wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Deepest sympathy & prayers from the New Jersey friends of the Tardiff's. RIP sweet boy, God has you in his hands <3"

Denise polen wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Your video of your children is absolutely breathtaking. There are no words that can express my deepest sympathy. What s precious child he was and now God is holding him in his hands and no longer in pain. I will keep praying for you all at this very difficult time. You may not know me by name, but I am Justin hamiltons mom. My heart breaks for you all. May God be with you."

Chris and Angela Caldwell wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kimbraly and Brynley, Chris and I are so sorry for your loss. May God continue to bless you and give you peace. Just know.... From the very beginning-even before Moses wrote the first books of the Bible-God had Jaxen in mind When he promised to love, protect, and give his children eternal life with him."

Taylor Palmer wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Taylor Palmer sent a floral arrangement."

Rlta Kettler wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Rlta Kettler sent a floral arrangement."

Cynthia and George Seiler wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"We are so very sorry to learn of Jaxen's passing. Our hearts ache with yours during this very sad and difficult time. May God comfort you and heal your pain. May His ever present love bring peace to you and your family today ... and in the days ahead. Our most sincere sympathy and love, George and Cynthia Seiler"

Sarah Ferrell wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"My heart is broken for your family. May God wrap his arms around you in the coming days."

Victoria Vodenik wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Victoria Vodenik sent a floral arrangement."

Bill Walker wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy My deepest sympathy at this time. Bill"

Jennifer and Alayiah Meyer wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Our heart breaks for all of you right now, just know we love you and pray God sends you strength to get through."

Jennifer and Alayiah Meyer wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"There are no words I can say to take away any of the pain you both are feeling. I am so sorry for your lose and just know Alayiah and I are praying for you all every minute of the day and asking God for the strength to get through this rough time. We love you all so much!"

Mike Young wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"So sorry for your loss. Sending Prayers for God's strength and comfort!"

Cortney Johnson wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I'm so sorry for your loss I only met Jaxen once as his ER nurse but he definitely left a mark with his laughter and love of his momma"

Pinar Nalcakan wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you and your family. Your family is in my thoughts."

Sam Eaton Laingen wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kim and family - my heart breaks for you! I cannot imagine your grief but know the Lord is with you to give you strength! My deepest sympathy, Sam"

Rachel Easybuck wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Our hearts are heavy with pain for your family Kim and Andy. There is no greater pain than you are experiencing now and I pray that you can find peace."

Roselle/Maurice Robinson wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Kim, Andy,and daughter. So sorry for your loss. Prayers for all."

stephanie aldea wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"stephanie aldea sent a floral arrangement."

Tina Jernigan wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Our hearts break for you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers. -Tina, Brian, & Kenzie Jernigan."

Chelby Carey wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I can not even imagine what you all are going through right now, but know that you have a strong support system for the hard times ahead."

Toni Oliverio wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kim & Brynley - Our most heartfelt and deepest sympathies are with you always. You are and will forever be in our prayers. Love, Toni, Whitney, Vaughn and Cayton"

Cindy Smith wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am deeply sorry for your loss and will continue to keep you in my prayers."

Meredith Dotson wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kim, and Brynley, My deepest heartfelt condolences to you during this difficult time. You have all been in my daily thoughts and prayers."

Larry Meador wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Words can never express the sympathy I have in my heart for you."

Mark & Ronda Carter wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Prayers for your beautiful family during this unimaginable time! We love your whole family and we're praying for peace & understanding~He's in the arms of the Angels, may you find some comfort there~"

David & Jenna Martino wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. We have been praying everyday for your family and will continue to do so."

Nicole L Rotsching wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Nicole L Rotsching sent a floral arrangement."

Denise Heaster wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I am so sorry to hear the passing of your son. May God rap his arms around all of you. God bless each of you."

Daphne&Gracey Eddy wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I can not begin to imagine your pain. Just know that Gracey and I have been praying and will continue to pray for your family! "The Lord is near to those who are broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18 Lots of Love Daphne & Gracey Eddy"

The Bales Family - Emily (McKeehan), Ed, Easton.. wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Andy, Kimbraly, and Brynley we are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers!!"

Melanie Egelhoff wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"You are all in my thoughts and heart during this tragic time. I love you and Andy and pray that you guys find the strength to get through this. You are loved by so many. Jaxen was such a fighter and finally at peace. This is an unfathomable loss that no one should ever have to endure. Love you guys."

Carol McCandless wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"I am a friend of Janet (Long) Bauer. I just wanted to express my sympathy for your loss. I run a Preschool and hold your family in prayer this morning."

Stephen M Polhamus wrote on Jul 26, 2016:

"Stephen M Polhamus sent a floral arrangement."