BJ William Dean Ladd II

''Bj'' William Dean Ladd II 31, passed away from diabetic complications, on May 30 aboard his beloved boat Flhlurgetty Bergan, in Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI. Bj was born February 25, 1974 in Springfield, Il. and had lived in Petersburg, Il. (Class of 92), Joliet, Il, Marathon, Fl. and most recently Christiansted, St. Croix. Bj came to Marathon in January 2003, and quickly flourished in his new found sailing environment. In March 2005, Bj took the opportunity to be First Mate on a schooner bound for St. Croix. Upon arrival in Christiansted, he set about making a new life for himself doing what he loved most. Working hard, sailing, and living life to its fullest. Bj is survived by his loving Mother, Charmaine Smith Ladd; devoted Father William D. Ladd both of Marathon, Fl; his beautiful caring sister, Michele Breighan Ladd of Springfield, Il; his brilliant Son, William D. Ladd III of Divernon, Il.; his Maternal Grandparents Robert and Essie Byrd Smith (Essie recently deceased on May 30, 2005), of Springfield, Il.; his paternal Grandparents Joseph and Frieda Ladd, of Macomb, Il.; Aunts Sly Dawne Vallera, Cheyenne Byrd Smith, Antoinette Smith, and Tempi Duffey; Uncles Daniel Ladd, Steven Ladd, Maurice Smith, and Caleb Smith and many many cousins. Bj was preceded in death by his Uncle Gerald D. Celmons. The family is planning a celebration of Bj’s life on Saturday June 4th at 15 Fairview Lane, Springfield, Il. starting at 1:00 P.M. All who knew Bj are welcome to stop by. A further celebration of Bj’s life will be held at the Marathon, Fl. Sombrero Beach Park on Friday, June 10th, starting at 3:00 P.M. All of his Marathon friends are invited to join us at that time to celebrate the life and accomplishments of our beloved Bj. Condolences may be mailed to William and Charmaine Smith Ladd; 5409 Overseas Highway #258; Marathon, Fl. 33050 or via email to [email protected]. Cremation accorded by Cremation Tribute Center. The family of ''Bj'' William Dean Ladd II is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield.