Kellan Michael McGuire

Kellan was a student at Bentonville West High School and a young man who lived with incredible energy and joy. He was funny and wonderfully silly, curious and full of energy, with a smile that could light up any room. He had a remarkable way of making the people around him feel special, included, and loved. As his dad says, Kellan burned so bright.

Kellan loved being outdoors. He loved swimming, boating, hiking, and especially the ocean. He was fearless and always ready for an adventure, whether that meant cliff jumping into Beaver Lake or exploring somewhere new. He loved to travel and experience new places, with New York City, Colorado, and Key West among his favorites. He approached the world with curiosity, openness, and an eagerness to experience everything he could.

There were so many things that made Kellan unmistakably Kellan, including his amazing dark, curly hair, his quick sense of humor, his infectious smile, and the laughter that seemed to follow wherever he went. He loved to laugh, loved making other people laugh, and had a natural ability to bring joy to the people around him.

But more than anything, Kellan will be remembered for his heart.

His friends describe him as someone who was always kind. Friendship meant so much to Kellan, and he cared deeply about the people he called his friends. He was fortunate to have many friends who loved him deeply. He especially treasured the time he spent with his closest friends, laughing, swimming, making memories, and simply being together. Kellan had a way of making people feel like they mattered, and that is a gift those who knew him will carry with them forever.

Kellan was deeply and completely loved by his family. He is survived by his mother, Susan Brooks-Harper, and her husband, Richard Harper; his father, Michael McGuire, and his wife, Tracey McGuire; his siblings, Lauren McGuire, Tait McClure, Lola McClure, Shea Harper, Griffin Harper, and Leighton Harper; his paternal grandparents, Diana and Raymond McGuire; his maternal grandparents, Nami Brooks and Ray Brooks and his wife Connie, and his great-aunt Ann Woolley; as well as many extended family members, friends, classmates, and others whose lives were made brighter because Kellan was part of them.

Sixteen years could never have been enough. Kellan’s life was far too short, but the love and joy he gave so freely cannot be measured in years. His life is reflected in the people he loved, the friendships he built, the laughter he shared, the places he explored, and the memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Kellan made people feel loved. His light will live on in his family, his friends, and in every person fortunate enough to have known him.

Kellan burned so very bright. He loved deeply, lived joyfully, and will be loved forever.

Kellan’s service will be held at Fellowship Bentonville, 1611 McCollum Dr, Bentonville, AR 72712, on Saturday, August 29, with visitation beginning at 1:30 p.m. and the service at 2:30 p.m.