Families really are Forever

I really am not sure how to word my thoughts right now, so please forgive me if they come out all wrong and inadequate. My dear friends the Decker family have lost their son and brother to a tragic accident in Utah Lake. November 22, 1982 – 7/5/2008

When I heard this news it hit me in a way I didn't realize it would. I knew him through his brother Dave, who has been a very close friend of mine since Highschool. Craig was always the younger brother I knew that followed his brothers around and just loved living life and smiling all the time.

I never really knew Craig as an adult, but from what I know about him I think we would have been BFF considering he is a Decker that went to BYU, loved music and is the same age as my husband, and the fact that he is part of the Decker clan.

This family has always been an example for all to learn from. They have given such charity and love to everyone around them. Gospel principles ring true through each member of the family. I am so grateful for the friendship that they have always exuded to me and for their involvement of me becoming the person I am today.There are so many cliche things you can say. This is a hard time, but the Decker family are examples of knowing God's plan, how it works, and being the people we all need to be to partake of true happiness. I am so grateful that I know that families are forever. This has made an impact on me and made me reflect on my beliefs. I just want to thank all of them for being living testimonies and having the faith we all need to have. It is a testament to how wonderful your family is when you can comfort others at this time. We all love you and are praying for your family. Families truly are forever.

I have included in this post the obituary posted on the site...

It is with tender feelings that family and friends bid farewell to our beloved Craig, who died while sailing with his parents at Utah Lake. Craig Hammond Decker, 25, was born November 22, 1982 in Murray, Utah to Lyle and Marie Decker. He was a vibrant young man who was loved and respected by the many people whose lives he touched. An Eagle Scout, he graduated from West Jordan High in 2001. He and Mark Hendricks were Drum Majors of the school’s award winning marching band where he learned to inspire and lead with love. His loving leadership continued as he served as a missionary and branch president in the Argentina Neuquen mission, as a youth councilor for EFY, and as a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In Jan. 2007 he lost his right hand in a fireworks accident. He said, “I will not be a victim.” Two days later he returned to his studies at BYU in Neuroscience. Craig overcame his trials with optimism and ingenuity, and continues to be an inspiration to many people through his YouTube videos under “captaindanger384.” In spite of personal difficulties he sought to bring love, light, laughter and faith to more people than ever imagined. His life was an active expression of his faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ. His written personal goals were: People are always more important. Do what you need to do when you need to do it whether you want to or not. I am not a victim, ever. Purity is power. Leave it better than when you found it. Life is a joy, a journey in becoming like my Heavenly Father. Live with purpose. Craig is survived by his parents, Lyle B. and Marie (Error) Decker, his brothers and sisters, Joanne, Emily, David and Heidi (Vriens), Lynn, Kevin, and Shelley Decker, his grandmother, Bertha K. Error and numerous loving extended family. A tribute website at www.craig-decker.com Donations to the Craig Decker Legacy Trust and Scholarship Fund can be made at any Key Bank or at donations@craig-decker.com through PayPal. has been created to remember this remarkable young man. We extend our deepest gratitude to the many selfless and compassionate staff and volunteers of the search and rescue effort. Thank you also for the many prayers and kind words offered in our behalf. All are welcomed to attend a visitation Friday, July 11, 2008 from 6-8 pm at the Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary, 1007 W. South Jordan Pkwy (10600 S.) South Jordan, Utah. Funeral services will be held Saturday July 12, 2008, 11:00 am at the LDS chapel located at 7265 S. 2700 W. West Jordan, Utah, with visitation one hour prior. Internment, West Jordan City Cemetery, 1300 W 7800 S.