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Kayla Byers

September 9, 2018

On Sunday, September 9, 2018, the world lost a truly beautiful soul. Kayla’s love for the earth, animals, children and life was a blessing to all who knew her. Kayla’s passion in life shone through her art, her love of rowing and water, and her beautiful, contagious smile. Kayla touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a wonderful niece to many aunts and uncles, a loving cousin to her many cousins, and a kind, compassionate granddaughter. Her parents Shane Byers, Kirsten Clarke and Luke Wales were blessed to share 18 incredible years with her. Her family would like to thank the amazing and caring staff at the London Health Sciences Centre – Oncology Unit and the Critical Care Trauma Centre for their kindness and compassion. Friends and relatives will be received at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Friday, September 14, 2018 from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-9:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, September 15, 2018 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Kayla are asked to consider Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada – Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope. 

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(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Karen Bailey

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Ryan Moossdorff

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Lynn & Wayne Peck

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Jim and Donna Pettit

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Shane Haskell

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Jason Hedges

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Andrea Byers

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Suzanne Robinson

A Poem for Kayla I searched all week for a poem, That explained the depth of our grief, But nothing could at all be found, To capture the loss of light so brief. Thousands of lives lit up by your smile, Each one feeling the very hard truth, That you spent your life spreading joy, Cruely shattered by death in youth. In health you were pure energy and love, In sickness a warrior so strong, With a contagious positive attitude, Teaching lessons for all our life long. We will try but never fully understand, Why the best of us had to leave, In your memory smiles may someday return, But for today all we can do is grieve.

~ Tara

(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Teresa Marcy

My thoughts are with all of those who knew this girl. Searching about rowing on the Internet led me to this. I am an avid rower and feel so very deeply for your loss and for the world's loss of clearly a fine athlete. I only wish I could have known her myself.

~ Bret Green

I ran into this quite accidentally, I raised 6 daughters. A little piece of my soul is gone every time I hear of one of God's Miracles like this little girl is taken away from us. I did not know her but believe me when I truly say that my days are a little less bright when something like this happens. She is sure to go straight to heaven. and I pray for her family and all those who knew and loved her. Dr. Chase Simokat

~ Dr. Chase Simokat

Shane. Samantha and I were deeply saddened to hear of the loss and passing of your daughter Kayla. I never had the pleasure of meeting her Shane , but if she was anything like you her Dad, then she was a stand up caring person, that put others before herself. God bless Kayla and may he give you my friend the strength to carry on your daughters legacy.

~ Thomas & Samantha Risley

The staff, faculty, and students at St. Paul's University College know that Kayla would have been an outstanding member of our student community and our thoughts are with her family and friends during this time of loss.

~ St. Paul's University College

My deepest condolences to her mother and family and friends... As a mother myself I cannot imagine your heartbreaking loss. Tears are streaming as I wish for strength for you in the days and years to come. The love you shared with Kayla will last a lifetime and she will always be with you.

~ Johanna Voerman Khisa

Dear Brother Shane: Our Deepest Sympathies to you and your family, we pray God bless you all with the patience and love you deserve always. May God Shower Kayla's beautiful soul with his grace and blessings. We pray God grant her palaces of praise in the highest of heavens. Amen Love The Kadri Family

~ Kadri Family

I had the pleasure of sharing many classes with Kayla and rowing with her for a year. She always had the brightest smile and the most positive attitude. The impact she had on others and in the community will always be remembered. I'm very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.

~ Emma Czenze

Kayla was an extraordinary girl, there is no other way to put it. She was so down to earth, honest, kind, and a genuinely good person: a rarity and a gift to everyone that knew her. Going to elementary school together, she always had a smile on her face, one that spread like wildfire to those around her. Being close to her made us feel good. Working at Gymworld with her, I saw the way she interacted with her groups and how much the kids looked up to her. She was an incredible coach and a wonderful leader. Going to high school together was amazing. I had many classes with her, but the one that stands out was grade 11 chemistry. She sat behind me and every once in a while, I would turn around and we would share a look of confusion because of the lesson, or just start talking about life. That was the thing about her: you could really talk to her. She was the person that would stop me in the hallway just to check in. She was the person who's name would be called from halfway across the cafeteria because people simply wanted her to come over so they could talk to her. Kayla spread so much love, but she got it all right back. She was so loved. She was the brightness in Banting. She was someone with the ability to make a mark on everyone she met and she will be missed in an indescribable way. My prayers go out to you, your family, and her countless friends.

~ Marietta Konermann

Our deepest condolences to Kayla's family and friends. Much love.

~ Connell Family

Although I only met Kayla a handful of times it was abundantly apparent what a special young lady she was. I'm so sorry for your loss.

~ Scott Perkin

It was with great sadness that we heard of the loss of Kayla. Such beautiful flowers have a season then tragically are gone but never forgotten. She brightened up her world and also that of others around her. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

~ London Rowing Club

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Byers Family in their time of grievance. Kayla's smile was warm and welcoming to many children in our gym and will be remembered by many. Rest in peace, Coach Kayla

~ Gymworld Staff

Kayla was in 2 of my science classes at Banting. She gave one hundred percent of herself to what she did in school and was an inspiration to others. Her bright smile and enthusiasm for life will be missed. Deepest condolences to her her friends and family. I can not imagine your loss.

~ Brenda Waters

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Mcc#114

(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Christine Knott

(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Jocelyn pearson

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Sarah and Anne Brooks

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Aidan's Grandma and Grandpa

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Linda Wilson

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Debbie and Susan Thomson

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ David/Lois Parker

(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Pauline Prpic for MSCC667

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Christina Eaton

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Dutz Family

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Megan Cashin

(Donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope)

~ Tracey

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Alex Michaud

(Donated to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre)

~ Stephen Ross

I'm so sorry for your loss.

~ Chelsey Henderson

Shane, Tania and family: Our sincere condolences, you are in our thoughts and prayers in these difficult times. Johnny, Chris and Melissa.

~ Christiane Rozon-Reasbeck

Kirsten, Lucas, Donna, Jim and family, We cannot express enough our sympathy and sadness with Kayla's passing. It is so hard to comprehend why such a beautiful human being should leave you all so soon. Nobody can take away your memories so cherish those and remember you will all be together again someday. That is what helped me get through my daughter's death 29 years ago. God bless you all. Christine and Steven Knott.

~ Christine Knott

Our deepest condolences for your loss, thinking of Kirsten & Luke and the Beyea family. Words cannot express how deeply sorry we are. Neighbourhood Auto Staff

~ Theresa Hepton

My heart is with the Byers and Beyea family. I'm sorry for your loss of an amazing child and an awesome friend. Kayla has definitely been a blessing for everyone she has met since her early years. I knew Kayla all the way back from Kindergarten and she has always been a person you'd want to be with. 18 years old is too early for someone like her to pass. She will forever be remembered in our hearts.

~ Michael Ufimzeff

We're so sorry for your loss. Kayla was such a wonderful person. I can't imagine what Shane, Kirsten, Luke and the rest of the family are going through. You are all in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

~ Jay Hedges

Kirsten and family, I am so sorry for your loss. In the short time I got to spend with Kayla I could tell she was a special young woman. Words that come to mind from my time spent with Kayla are kind, caring, driven, athletic and smart. Kirsten, my thoughts are with you and your family.

~ Kate Lein

Kirsten our hearts are breaking for you. Kayla was an inspiration to all and we can't imagine what you and the family are going through. You are all in our prayers.

~ Alex Hanham

I am so sorry to hear of your daughter's passing. I am sure she was your bright light that your life revolved around her. My deepest sympathies and hopes that you find strength in the beautiful memories.

~ Lorrinda Mabee

My sincerest condolences. Letting you know we are there for you.

~ Rob Aitken

SHANE-- We are so saddened to learn of the passing of your daughter. Our sincerest condolences to you and your whole family.

~ Brian & Diane Hollis

My deepest condolences goes to you, Kirsten and your family. There are no words that will take away your pain and sadness in these moments. Your daughter was a very special girl, who was beautiful inside and out and brought some much joy to your life. I hope you will find comfort in all the family and friends who are here for you in your time of need.

~ Michelle Myszko

Such a beautiful human being. All those people and animals who met Kayla or knew her, are truly, truly lucky. So very sorry for everyone's loss.

~ Suzanne Robinson

Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

~ Kim and Sam VanderSchelde

Our hearts are heavy with the news of Kayla's passing. Our thoughts are with you all!

~ Jodey and Adalton

Shane to you and your family me and my family are deeply sorry to hear of Kayla's passing. It is clear she was a shining light the world will be lacking joy. Thoughts and prayers for all your family

~ Rick Addy

I feel blessed to have known such a wonderful and special girl. Kayla's infectious smile and kindness will be missed by so many people. My heart goes out to all of her family and friends.

~ Jan Field

We are all so deeply saddened by this tragic news. May you all find the strength and feel the love you are surrounded by to help you get through the coming days as I am sure you will need. Kayla was such a doll and always so friendly. Shane, Kirsten ,Pat and all those who loved her so just know we are so very sorry for your loss and are thinking about you all. With much love Cindy and Bernard

~ Cindy and Bernard Higdon

Our deepest condolences on the loss of your precious child Kayla. Words cannot adequately express our sorrow in your heartbreaking loss, There are no words that can relieve the pain and anguish that you are feeling but know that we will continue to keep you all in our hearts and prayers.

~ Debbie Smithers

To all who loved her: Kayla was a bright light in my Kindergarten class for two years. I don't think the smile left her face once from the moment she stepped into the classroom until the moment she left. She was a caring friend to all and a wonderful mediator, even at five years of age. Her positivity spread to other children and she always "sparkled". In other words, she was every teacher's dream. In reading the comments here it sounds like she continued to reach out to others and share her joy. Although she leaves a hole in many hearts, because she touched so many people, a part of her continues to make the world a better place. It was a privledge to know her. Safe journey Kayla; you deserve it. xo

~ Karen Bailey

My deepest condolences to family and friends.

~ Cheryl Ross

I had the absolute privilege of rowing with Kayla when she first started and I was graduating from high school. She was dedicated to being her best and supporting her teammates. She learned quickly and made the year fun for everyone around her. I have been back many times to visit the club since graduating and Kayla was always a smiling face to greet meet and it was a joy to see how much she had grown as an athlete. Athletes, friends, anyone as dedicated and full of love as Kayla are rare. She was loved by many and she will be dearly missed. My condolences to her family and friends, those that got to spend so much time with her and share so much love. I am so sorry for your loss.

~ Joshua Shepherd

We are so sorry for your loss of your beautiful daughter, Kayla, and our hearts break for our grandson Payton.

~ Rick and Pattie Beyea

We are so sorry for your loss of your beautiful daughter, Kayla, and our hearts break for our grandson Payton.

~ Rick and Pattie Beyea

Our deepest Sympathies. We are all sorry for your loss. BA

~ Toyota Bumper Assy

Shane, We are both at a loss for words over this. We had no idea that your dear daughter was battling leukaemia and our sincerest condolences go out to you and your family over the loss of Kayla.

~ Paul and Muriel Lennon

Shane: On behalf of all of us at MSCC667 we offer our most heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We are saddened by this loss and offer our prayers and thoughts as you deal with this tragedy. May God bless your family.

~ Pauline Prpic

We are so very sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

~ David & Lois Parker

Shane, on behalf of Karen and I we are truly saddened for you and your family for the loss of your daughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this unspeakable time.

~ Bill Merrylees

The Brock Rowing team's thought's are with the family and Kayla's friend Payton. We are sorry for your sudden loss of such a young person that you cared for so much.

~ Brock Rowing Team

Shane, Kirsten, Luke and Family I was sorry to read about Kayla's passing in the LFP. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and thoughts for you Although I did not know your daughter Kirsten, I remember you well from the Aldersbrook Road days. It sounded like Kayla was an amazing, very well liked & loved young woman who inspired and accomplished much in her short life. That says a lot about the people who raised her... Lynn Betts (Brad's Mom)

~ Lynn Betts

Dear Kayla, It is with disbelief that I am acknowledging your passing on. It was a pleasure to work with you this summer and share our passion for helping wild animals in crisis. You will not be forgotten for your efforts here at Salthaven. Thank you for being you, and although you aren't here physically with us anymore your presence will be felt in the work that goes on to help the little ones without a voice. God speed Kayla Byers!

~ Brian Salt

My family knew Kayla as a young girl always full of happiness and laughter, her smile will be missed by many. Our Condolences to her family and friends R.I.P Sweet Angel

~ Teresa,Dwayne,Felicia and Breanna

I am so so sorry for your loss. My thought and prayers are with you . Hugs!❤️

~ Judi Dueck

Losing family is certainly the hardest. Time will heal the heart but the mind will always remember. Brian and Brenda

~ Brian Wales

I only knew Kayla for a short time but in that short time I could see her fighting spirit and her love for others. My deepest condolences and you are all in my thoughts.

~ Allyse Chapman

so so sorry for your loss

~ rose gormley

Kayla had a resilient spirit and was one of the most accepting and kind people one could hope to meet. She put her heart into everything she did and had a positive energy that never went away. I first met Kayla in kindergarten, where she went on to be the only friend of mine for the duration of elementary school. My deepest and sincerest condolences go out to Kayla's family and friends, as well as to her boyfriend. Kayla brought something special to the world, and it will forever be a darker place without her personality to shine through it.

~ Kalina Karr

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Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada - Light the Night Walk #TeamKaylaHope

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