I’d often tell him I was living vicariously through him, and I was so proud to watch him thrive in something he loved.
Watching him grow into the handsome, funny, sweet, and caring man he became filled me with such pride. I’ll always treasure our time together in Palm Springs. Even though he had just lost his beloved Grandma Kathy, he lived life to the fullest during that trip. We had such a great time in California, and I’ll forever remember the laughter and joy we shared.
The bond he shared with his mom was truly special, and it was always a joy to witness. The way you two made each other laugh so effortlessly, was a beautiful thing to see. It was clear how deeply you loved & cared for one another. You even had your “canoily oily” TikTok go viral with your goofiness. 
William, In the wake of losing you, I find myself deeply regretting how I could have spent even more time with you. But through this sorrow, you’ve taught me a beautiful lesson: never hesitate to spend time with loved ones. Take the trip, make the phone call, send the text, have the conversation, and, most importantly, tell the people you love how much they mean to you while you still can,  and not to forget, order that burger with everything on it! 
William, I will forever cherish our conversations and the admirable way you viewed life. Your sense of humor and sarcasm was unmatched. I am heartbroken that your time was so short, but I am eternally grateful for the time I had with such a beautiful soul. You will be greatly missed, but you will forever be cherished in my heart.
Rest in peace William. You were, and always will be, loved beyond measure.

Today, I stand before you with a heart full of love, sadness, and gratitude as I honor my dear nephew, William. From the moment I met him, I was so proud to be his aunt. I’ll never forget picking him and his mom up at the airport for one of his first visits to Colorado. He was maybe a year old, and as his mom carried him through the airport, He amazed me by reciting every letter of the alphabet on all the signs that he saw. He already knew the alphabet! And he was solving puzzles with such ease. I later learned that some nights the only way my sister could get him to go to sleep was to put him in his crib with books and puzzles. Even as a tiny child, I could see how incredibly smart he was, and I was in awe.There are so many memories of him that will stay with me forever.  Every time he visited us in Colorado, all his aunts and his grandma couldn’t help but dote on him. He would get so mad at us for staring at him and saying how cute he was, but we couldn’t help it—He was just the cutest little guy.
I’ll never forget the time he came to stay at my house when he was about 10 years old. It was his first time seeing Colorado snow, and he spent hours in my backyard with my dogs playing in it. I had to call him inside to warm up and dry off just so he could go right back out again. We took him to his first Broncos game, and he got to experience the excitement of "Mile High" stadium. I’ll always smile when I think of him quickly catching on every time the Vikings missed a pass, to the chant of “in-com-plete!”.  He stayed a Bronco fan until the end. And of course, I’ll never forget him trying to convince me, with the most serious face, that his  mom said he didn’t need to shower that entire trip. Nice try, Will!
As he grew older, I continued to be amazed by his musical talents—his singing, his drumming & guitar playing. I had always wanted to learn the drums myself, and here he was, self-taught and playing like a pro… continued

I wish I could find the words to express all of my memories with you, but I will carry them in my heart and share them for the rest of my days. Knowing you has been more than a blessing; you have always been one of my most treasured people, and you will forever hold that place in my heart. Almost 12 years of knowing you feels too short, yet I am beyond grateful for every moment we shared. Your heart was immense; when you loved, you loved fiercely, and you showed it in your own special way. Your hugs were some of the best I’ve ever had. I’ll miss your sarcasm and our playful banter. You had this incredible ability to send me the perfect song at the most unexpected times, and I will miss your bold opinions and the way you were unapologetically yourself. Your passion for the Broncos and your great taste in music always brightened my day. I’ll cherish the sound of your laugh and your brilliant ideas. I’ll remember the letters and notes you wrote, and how you would try so hard to draw a heart, even if it never came out right. You remembered the little things, and I loved that about you. Your thoughtful gestures and gifts were unmatched; I’m grateful I kept everything you made for me. I’ll miss our garage jam sessions, car rides filled with singing and dancing, coming up with band names and all the adventures we shared together and with Jayla. I’ll miss coming up with new recipes together and your competitiveness when playing games. You could lift the spirits of those around you, and life was always an adventure with you.  You always believed in me.  I will deeply miss our friendship and how you spent time with Jayla, who adored you. Forever thankful for the love you gave her and the impact you made on our lives. You were once my partner in crime, a father/big brother figure to Jayla, but above all, you were a dear friend.

I’ll love you forever. I’m going to miss every bit of you. Fly high, sweet angel. Until we meet again.

My deepest condolences to you and your family.

It was during this time that you & I got closer than we have ever been. As unfortunate as it was, Grandma Kathy's passing brought us so much closer and it feels like just yesterday. I will forever be grateful for the time we had together & the random conversations we'd have over these last few years. I miss you with my whole heart, Little Brother ❤️ I love you.

I only knew William as a baby and through stories from his Beautiful Mother Christine. He ment the world to her and his family. Loosing someone that is part of your soul and your being is the hardest part of being human. I pray the cherished memories that everyone will carry-on will help keep him alive and close in your hearts and in your soul. May you all find comfort in knowing your lives were better because of the joy and memories he created with you. 🙏

Will was my cousin, but also the big brother I never had. He made me laugh some of my biggest laughs, introduced me to my favorite games, and was the funnest person to talk to. He loved playing and listening to music, Pokémon Go, the Denver Broncos and the Atlanta Braves, cooking and experimenting with food, and making funny videos. I am so grateful to have been influenced by these loves of his and just how big he loved. What I loved most about him was that he found humor and happiness in everything. I will carry these with me for the rest of my life. I love you, Will <3

William and I were taking a walk . We were walking side by side . Pretty soon William started walking ahead of me . William continue to walk leaving me behind , farther and farther . Just before William made a complete turn , he looked at me for the last time.  I was hoping and praying I would be able to find the house .  William was still a young kid .  I made it to his house eventually . I will always remember this . When I think about it makes me laugh .  Sweet and unforgettable memories .

Christine and Rob
So sorry my friends, William will be missed so very much. Nothing I say can take that void or pain away. But know we love you both and send our prayers. Our hearts ache so much. We will all carry William in our hearts. May he rest in peace. Love Punkie and David. 💔

To Christine, 
Sending our deepest sympathy and love to you and the family. 
Jacqui Chilvers. ( Connection- ECP) 
Samantha and Ellee send hugs. X

When I think of Will, I think of how deeply he loved. He loved his family and friends and cats like no one I had met before. It is a privilege to have known and loved Will. He will always be in my heart.

Though you may be gone, your memory will continue to inspire us. Your presence will be deeply felt with each passing day. Reunite with those who have gone before you. Look from heaven on those who are left on this earth, grateful for the time you shared with them. Give solace to your mom, Christine, and to Rob through the memories you've shared. Your wit, humor, and unconditional love will be deeply missed. Missing and loving you deeply and forever, William Christopher Shrake.❤️

You will be missed dearly William.  Words alone will never express how we all feel.  You will always be in our/my heart forever.  It was wonderful watching you grow into the man you become.  Love you always and forever.

OBITUARY

William "Will" Christopher Shrake

October 25, 1995 – January 28, 2025

H.M. Patterson & Son-Canton Hill Chapel

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