Category: Uncategorized

Saddle River, NJ — The Saddle River community is grieving the loss of Jack Inserra, a devoted firefighter, respected financial professional, and beloved friend, who passed away this week. For more than 20 years, Jack served the Saddle River Fire Department with unwavering dedication, including time as association president. His fellow firefighters remembered him as a man whose commitment, pride, and generosity defined his service, saying, “Rest easy, brother — we’ll take it from here.”

Jack’s impact extended well beyond the firehouse. The Saddle River CERT team praised him as “a wonderful father and truly a wonderful person,” recalling his constant willingness to help and the warm smile he brought wherever he went. Friend Phil Ross described Jack as “gregarious, loving, and a true friend,” noting that his presence filled every room with energy, kindness, and affection.

“A big smile, a bear hug, and a kiss — that was Jack,” Ross shared. Professionally, Jack built a distinguished career as a wealth management director with Citizens Private Wealth. For more than three decades, he guided families, business owners, and high-net-worth clients with insight, professionalism, and genuine care.

A graduate of Penn State University, Jack excelled as a scholarship athlete, competing in both football and wrestling. He later devoted time to coaching youth sports, taking tremendous pride in supporting young athletes and, above all, in being a father. “Jack loved life and was bigger than life,” Ross said. “He was taken from us too soon. RIP, brother. I miss you and love you.” Funeral arrangements will be announced.

Edda Anderson of Chicago, Illinois, was a remarkable young woman whose life radiated promise, compassion, and accomplishment. At only 25 years old, she had already forged an impressive path both personally and professionally, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Edda recently completed an advanced degree as a physician’s assistant, a milestone that reflected her deep commitment to healthcare and her desire to serve others.

Intelligent, dedicated, and skillful, she quickly became known as a talented emerging professional with an exceptionally bright future. Her academic success and the beginnings of her career stood as clear testaments to her perseverance, passion, and unwavering work ethic. Beyond her achievements, Edda was cherished for her warmth, kindness, and spirited personality. She dearly loved her family and friends, and her presence brought light, laughter, and genuine care to every room she entered.

Her ability to connect wholeheartedly with others, her generosity, and her joyful spirit made her the heart of her circles, whether at home, among friends, or within her broader community. Just weeks ago, she celebrated her graduation in Chicago surrounded by her extended family, creating memories filled with pride, love, and happiness—moments that will be forever treasured.

Edda’s life was tragically cut short, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who loved her. She will be remembered not only for her achievements but for the extraordinary person she was—bright, loving, and full of potential. Her family and friends honor her memory by holding one another close and continuing to celebrate the joy she brought into the world.

Our hearts are unbearably heavy today as we walk a path we never dreamed we would face. Our sweet Wesson has fought with everything in him. This traumatic brain injury—the pain, the trauma—has been so incredibly unfair. Yet even in the midst of it all, he has shown a strength as pure as anything we have ever known. If you knew Wesson, you knew his rowdy spirit—that wild spark that turned ordinary days into full-blown adventures.

He was always chaos with a purpose, laughter that filled every room, a smile that melted every heart. He was joy wrapped in a little boy, mischief and magic, softness and storm, all in one. And he is ours. Forever ours. We always joked that it was “Wes’s world, and we just lived in it,” and now we are terrified of imagining a world without him. Today we begin the transition into palliative care, slowly and gently, guided only by love. Wesson will be surrounded by our hands, our voices, our prayers, and every ounce of the love we’ve held for him since the moment he came into our lives.

In his short years, Wesson chose to be an organ donor—proof of the huge heart he carried. He will give life, hope, and healing to others, shining his light even now. This is not giving up. This is placing our baby into the Lord’s arms, trusting God’s plan. His joy, his laugh, his spirit will stay with us forever. Please keep our family in your prayers—for peace, strength, and the comfort of feeling Wesson’s love around us. Thank you for loving our boy.

The community is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Gabriel Rodriguez, whose life was cut short in an industrial accident involving a skid-steer loader. His sudden loss has left family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors grieving as they reflect on the dedication, kindness, and steady presence he brought to every part of his life. Gabriel was known for his unwavering work ethic, his generosity, and the warmth he extended to everyone he met. Those who knew him speak of his reliability, his willingness to help without hesitation, and the meaningful impact he had both personally and professionally.

Although his time with us ended far too soon, the memories Gabriel created—filled with laughter, compassion, and shared experiences—will continue to guide and comfort those who loved him. To his family, we offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. Losing someone so cherished in such heartbreaking circumstances is an immeasurable sorrow, and we hope that the moments you shared with Gabriel bring strength in the days ahead.

Gabriel’s life is a reminder of the value of dedication, the power of empathy, and the importance of embracing every moment with purpose. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the friendships he nurtured, and the care he consistently showed to his community. As we honor his memory, may we carry forward the qualities he embodied—hard work, compassion, and a generous heart. Gabriel Rodriguez will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. May he rest in eternal peace, and may all who loved him find comfort and healing in the lasting imprint of his life.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jared Owen of Bryan, Texas, a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished friend, and respected member of our medical community. Jared was a familiar and trusted presence across our hospital teams, always ready to support, educate, and stand beside colleagues during critical moments. His kindness, patience, and dedication left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him, and his loss is deeply felt.

On November 18th, the Owen family experienced the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Jared, leaving behind his loving wife, Ashlynn, and their two children, Cooper and Denver, who were the center of his life. Jared’s devotion to his family was evident in all he did, and his legacy of love and guidance will continue to inspire those closest to him. To support the Owen family during this unexpected time, a fund has been established to assist with immediate expenses and provide stability for Ashlynn, Cooper, and Denver in the weeks and months ahead. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help ease their burden and offer tangible support.

Additionally, a meal train has been organized to provide practical support in the coming weeks. Friends, colleagues, and community members are invited to participate, bringing comfort and relief to the family as they navigate the difficult days ahead. We are grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and generosity surrounding the Owen family. Your support during this incredibly challenging time is deeply appreciated as we grieve together the loss of Jared, a remarkable man whose life touched so many.

The Plano, Texas, medical community mourns the passing of Dr. John Chuang, a dedicated family medicine physician whose compassion, skill, and commitment to patient care touched countless lives over more than two decades. Dr. Chuang’s patients, colleagues, friends, and family feel a profound loss at his passing. Born in Taiwan, Dr. Chuang moved to Texas as a teenager, bringing with him a strong work ethic, gratitude, and a sense of purpose.

He earned his undergraduate degree from Baylor University before attending Ross University School of Medicine and completing his residency at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, he built a reputation for attentive care and unwavering support, particularly for patients navigating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Dr. Chuang practiced at Medical City Plano and was deeply involved in the Collin-Fannin County Medical Society, Texas Medical Association, Jefferson Physician Group, and the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA).

He had the honor of working alongside his mentor, Dr. Young, and carried forward the practice with humility, integrity, and dedication after Dr. Young’s retirement. Known for his kindness, patience, and genuine concern, Dr. Chuang made every patient feel heard and supported. His guidance helped individuals and families manage ADHD with compassion and evidence-based care, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Dr. Chuang’s legacy endures in the countless people he served and inspired. He will be remembered not only as an outstanding physician but as a warm, caring human being whose life improved the community he loved so deeply. May he rest in peace, and may his contributions continue to shine through the lives he touched.

Jason Livingston of Parsons, Tennessee, was a devoted and compassionate individual whose life was defined by service, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his community. Born and raised in Parsons, Jason carried a genuine care for others into every part of his life, leaving a lasting impression on family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors alike. Known for his strong work ethic and dedication, Jason was always willing to lend a helping hand.

He approached life with honesty, reliability, and warmth, earning the admiration and respect of those who knew him. Whether through professional endeavors or personal connections, Jason’s presence brought comfort, encouragement, and a sense of being valued to everyone he encountered. Beyond his work, Jason cherished building meaningful relationships and creating treasured memories with loved ones.

His approachable nature, humor, and generosity made him a source of joy and support, and his influence extended far beyond his immediate circle. Friends and family alike remember him for his ability to brighten any room and for the care and attention he gave to those around him. Jason Livingston leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, integrity, and service.

His life reflects the positive impact one person can have through kindness and genuine concern for others. He will be remembered not only for the lives he touched but also for the encouragement, support, and love he freely offered. His memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him, and his presence will be dearly missed in the Parsons community and beyond.

Chasity Kinser of Cheraw, South Carolina, was a vibrant and compassionate woman whose life was marked by kindness, creativity, and a steadfast dedication to helping others. Known for her gentle spirit and her ability to uplift those around her, Chasity brought warmth and positivity into every space she entered. She began her educational journey at Cheraw High School and continued her studies in Phlebotomy at Northeastern Technical College.

Throughout her career, Chasity touched the lives of many through her work in healthcare. She served as a skilled ophthalmic technician at Carolina Eye Associates and as a phlebotomist at McLeod Health, where her professionalism, care, and comforting presence were cherished by patients and colleagues alike. Earlier, she shared her nurturing nature as a child care attendant at Kiddielane Daycare, demonstrating patience, warmth, and a genuine love for guiding young minds.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Chasity was a creative force and digital content creator. Her work reflected her humor, optimism, and ability to connect with people on a personal level, leaving a lasting impression on those who experienced her creativity. Chasity Kinser will be remembered for her generous heart, her dedication to others, and the joy she brought into the lives of everyone she met. Her legacy of compassion, creativity, and unwavering positivity continues to inspire family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her. Though her presence will be deeply missed, the impact of her life and spirit will endure in the hearts of many.

Ted Swagerty of Portland, Oregon, born February 10, 1985, passed away on November 17, 2025, leaving a profound void in the lives of all who knew him. A cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, Ted had a rare gift for bringing warmth, laughter, and light into every room he entered. His presence was magnetic, his humor infectious, and his spirit unforgettable.

Ted’s life was defined by dedication, hard work, and genuine connection. As an apprentice electrician at EC Electric and a valued team member at Rip City Mushrooms, he approached each day with integrity and enthusiasm. Whether learning new skills or offering a helping hand, Ted’s humility and heart made a lasting impression on everyone around him.

Born in Roseburg, Oregon, Ted carried the foundations of compassion, resilience, and humor from his early years into his life in Portland. Friends and family will always remember his adventurous spirit, quick wit, and uncanny ability to find joy in the unexpected. The story of his honor walk, complete with a perfectly “Teddy” moment when the ambulance tire caught a curb, exemplifies the way he brought smiles to those around him—even in farewell.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 21, from 4:00–7:00 pm at Lucky Labrador, followed by a Funeral Mass on Saturday, November 22, at 11:00 am at St. Andrews Church, with a luncheon afterward. These gatherings will honor Ted’s life through stories, laughter, and shared memories. Ted leaves a legacy of love, joy, friendship, and wholehearted living. Though he is deeply missed, his light, laughter, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Ted—you will be cherished forever.

The passing of Patrick Helling of Minnesota has left a profound void in the hearts of family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Those who loved Patrick gather in grief, yet also in gratitude—for his kindness, generosity, and the quiet strength he shared throughout his life. Patrick was a man defined by compassion and sincerity. He offered help without hesitation, listened with genuine care, and supported others not through grand gestures, but through the steady, thoughtful acts of daily life.

His humility and warmth touched everyone he encountered, leaving lasting impressions of comfort and understanding. To his family and friends, Patrick was a steadfast presence, a source of encouragement, and a beacon of reassurance. His laughter brought joy, his patience brought calm, and his generosity inspired all who knew him. In times of celebration or challenge, he could always be relied upon, providing strength and care with unwavering devotion.

As we mourn Patrick’s passing, we also honor the legacy he leaves—a life lived with integrity, purpose, and love. The memories he created, the friendships he nurtured, and the kindness he shared will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. Though his time with us was far too brief, his impact endures in every heart he touched. To Patrick’s family and loved ones, may you find comfort in the stories, smiles, and moments you shared. Though grief shapes our days, Patrick’s love and memory will forever guide and brighten your lives. May Patrick Helling rest in eternal peace, and may his memory always be a blessing.