Joel, Adam, and Seth Herzog were aboard a small plane returning from the Davis Cup Tennis Tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada, after a family vacation, when it crashed in bad weather. The loss of these three precious individuals was felt by all who knew them but particularly those at Broadmoor Elementary School where Adam and Seth were students, their mother, Nancy Saltzman, the principal, and Joel, a model father, husband, and friend.

Joel was an avid tennis player, a great joke teller, and a true friend to all he met. Joel was “not afraid to be great” and he inspired others to be just as committed to this goal. He set the standard for excellence when it came to being a father and husband. Joel would say that life was a wonderful journey meant to be lived with the people you love. He truly made a difference in the lives of those he knew by living life to its fullest.

Adam Herzog was a young man with a huge, beautiful smile and a gleam in his dark brown eyes. Almost 13 year old Adam was a truly gifted athlete. He excelled in hockey, tennis, and track. His friends remember him for his deep compassion for others and his desire to enjoy life like his father. Adam was a true friend with a huge heart.

Seth, eleven years and one day old, had an infectious laugh and a big tooth smile. Friends and family would sit near him so they could participate in his joyful existence. He was quick to give hugs and was a sensitive, thoughtful boy whose eyes brought you into a caring and warm world. Seth’s playful spirit will always be remembered by those who knew him.

The Soaring Spirits community encouraged me to talk about Joel, Adam, and Seth with total acceptance and understanding. Donating to  the Soaring Spirits Resiliency Center has allowed me to give back and say thank you for all of the support I have received from each and every one involved in the organization.