Dear Family and Friends,
We write this letter to you with such great sadness in our hearts even though some of you may have already heard.
The birth of a newborn baby usually comes with such great joy. However, for Dave & Kristal it is a different story. On Sunday, January 8, 2012, Dave, Kristal, and Irene (Kristal's mom) drove to Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis, Oregon with anticipated excitement and joy for the arrival of their baby. From the moment they arrived, something seemed different as the Good Sam staff became cautiously worried, due to the baby’s heart rate being flat. They informed them that this could be due to the baby sleeping, position, or Kristal being dehydrated. Suddenly they could no longer find the baby's heartbeat on the monitor, and the ultrasound proved the baby was in distress. They quickly moved Kristal to do an emergency c-section.
The joyous words of "It's a Boy" were not heard over the sounds of a newborn's first cry. Instead, only silence from the baby and anxious doctors and nurses busily caring for the baby's immediate needs. With uncertainty of what caused this event, it was decided to transport the baby to Emanuel Legacy Hospital in Portland where they specialize in critical infant care. Dave went with the baby while Irene stayed with Kristal in Corvallis. As time slowly moved forward, it became clearer that their baby boy was not going to share anytime here on earth with his wonderful parents. With Dave by Landon’s side waiting for Kristal’s arrival, he was able to share and express their love to him. As Landon began to drift off to eternal peace, Dave had Landon William baptized as one of God’s children; shortly thereafter, with Landon in Dave’s arms, he peacefully left this world on Monday, January 9, 2012.
Due to the special circumstances of this situation, our family held a private funeral service on Friday, January 13.
Many of you have asked what you can do to show your love and support. In talking with Dave and Kristal, they encourage those who have children to give them a hug and tell them how much you love them. For those who may not have children, spend some time with, or help a young person.
We, as Landon’s Godparents, Denise (Dave’s sister) and Kevin (Kristal’s brother), have set up a memorial fund in Landon's name at US Bank. If you so choose, any monitory donations can be made at any US Bank located near you. Please make out your donation to the "Landon Fehring Memorial Fund." Dave and Kristal will use this money in memory of Landon (i.e. scholarship fund in Landon’s name, children’s organizations, hospital program, etc). At this time, it is uncertain how the money will be used, as Dave and Kristal continue through the grieving process.
As Dave and Kristal heal, please do not be hurt or offended if they do not quickly respond back to your calls, texts, or emails. However, they want everyone to know how much they have appreciated the outpouring of support, love, and prayers that have been given throughout this time. If you have any additional questions or would like an update, please contact one of the following people as they would be a good contact point:
Kevin Heikes –
Irene Heikes –
Denise Zuern –
Troy Snow (friend)
However, if you prefer to mail a card or letter, their mailing address is 1228 SE Seaport Circle, Corvallis, OR 97333.
Whether you are near or far, Dave and Kristal will need all the prayers, love, and support you can offer. In closing, I would like to quote Irene, who quotes from the bible, "God didn't promise bad things would not happen to good people; he just promises to help pick up the pieces when they do."
Please pass this onto anyone else that we may have not included on this email. We tried to acquire as many email addresses as possible, but with your help, we can reach all those who love Dave & Kristal.
May God bless each of you.
Love,
Denise Zuern and Kevin Heikes