Friends

Bryce,

Just wanted to tell you how great of a friend you have been to me. As I look over the years that we have known each other there are so many fond memories that I will never forget and in ways have shaped my life and I plan on making many more of those memories.
One of the fondest memories is of you taking an a plunge at Logan River Golf Course to retrieve your club that you threw in the lake. You actually did it and I didn't think you would.
I've also been with you in a bad situation and saw how strong you fought for you and your family. That's why I know you can do it again and again as long as it takes.
I count you as one of my closest friends even though we don't see each other that often (we'll have to make up for that!)
All my love and prayers are with you!
Love, your friend
Nathan

I have a friend named Bryce, and I remember the first day I met him. I thought this guy is someone I need to have  in my life. Bryce is a friend that has always had the ability to look past shortcomings and mistakes made. I have so many fun and crazy memories.  I just decided to do what kids do these days with some hash tags so that I don't make any friends or family blush... # skipping class for pheasants #skittles on the roof at Humphries #Midnight auto #High speed getaway's from jealous boyfriends #Pumpkin games #Fishing #Hunting #Boyz in the Hood and #Girls.... I cant wait to make some more hash tags brother!!! Thompson Tough
JABE

 Memories :
Well I wish I had some photos to share but I have some  memories that are pretty great, well where to start I always remember you with your Nissan truck parked out on the front lawn when you lived with Larry you were always washing it I think it was the cleanest truck on the planet :)  and of coarse your baby Tippy she was so spoiled ,  also playing spoons that was a lot of fun and it got a little dangerous lol  and then you got   ready to go on your mission and we were so proud of you and honored to be there when you got your patriotic blessing thanks for letting us share your day. These are some of the ones that really stick out in my mind there is so many more. We hope you enjoy reading all these memories and we will keep you and your family in our prayers and we will look forward to making more great memories Love you guys Carl and Shonna Clift

Toilet Model

Bryce, I don't know you well enough to have any personal stories with you, so I'm hoping it's alright to share some memories of your rockin' wife here, since it is through her that I know you...

I met your gorgeous, funny, caring, kind,  super physically fit wife when she brought Sage to The KImber Academy.   Between your triplets, and my quadruplets, we shared instant common ground for a friendship.  I have always been amazed at Jenni's abilities to juggle the home, the kids, soccer, gymnastics, wrestling, schooling, running, and being an all around fabulous person.  I can only imagine that anyone she has been married to for such a long time has to be equally as kick a$$...(can I say that here?) :)

My friendship with Jenni was solidified the day my very young son announced (loudly) in our children's very straight laced, religious classroom that he could "smell his balls."   Yup, yelled it while the other kids were quiet as church mice.  As only two semi crazed, rebel moms of multiples may understand,  we laughed about that one for months.  Similarly, when Ben and Jerry's introduced a particular Schweddy malted milk ball flavor (that wouldn't be sold in Utah due to it's name) she made sure that she sent me a photo of the ice cream box  so we could reminisce and laugh again.  

Then there was the time we took glamour shots at a benefit garage sale, on a small toilet we were trying to sell.   Doesn't sound like a glamour shot to you?  I think the photos speak for themselves ;)  And to those who were driving down 12300 South in Draper that day..."You're Welcome."

Of course, because of your wife and Sage, I've had the true privilege of meeting your awesome kids.  I imagine life with  Kade, Davin, Creed, and Sage is nothing short of spectacular.  It's always been obvious to me the love they have for you, and you for them.  You are a very blessed man.  You have much to fight for and I'm sure you will be relentless in that fight regardless of which side of the veil in which it is fought.

May God bless you Bryce.  We pray for you and your family every day and believe in the Almighty's abilities to perform miracles.

Merry Christmas,

Michelle Keller and family.

Mettle Wrestling

Bryce: 

I think that greatest trust that you can place in someone is the privilege of allow someone to be a coach, mentor and teacher to your kids. Thank you for the opportunity that you have given me to get to know you Kade and your family. We have traveled together, sat in the corner together and set up mats together. I always admired your calm demeanor and the way in which you conducted yourself with dignity and class. I have learned a lot from you and will continue to pray for you and your family! No matter what happens, please know that we will always look out for your family! We will continue to pray for you through your fight!

Cole Kelley

To Dad From Creed

Dear Dad,
Thank you for everything you've done for me.  Thank you for working to get money to spend on us and get food for us and pay all of the house payments.  Thank you for paying for our soccer and letting us do as much soccer as we want.  Thank you for being the best dad in the world.  One of my favorite memories is when we went craw fishing with you.  Me and Davin would hop in and get all of the crawfish we could and you would put chicken on the shore and we would throw the crawfish onto the land and then they would go crazy and eat the chicken.  I had fun playing around and messing with the crawfish and then cooking them and eating then.  Another one of my favorite memories is when you got out of the hospital for a week and took us to the Park City tournament and we won first place.  We got to stay at a cool hotel and spend a lot of time with you.  We got to eat at our favorite pizza place in Park City and get all of those mints.  Thank you for always being there for me.

I love you,
Creed

To Dad From Davin

Dear Dad,

Thanks for being an awesome dad.  Thanks for going to work all day to pay for our house and food and everything.  Thanks for paying for all of my soccer stuff and letting me do whatever sport I want to.  My favorite memory is when you and mom took me and Creed to California on our first airplane.  We had fun at the beach catching crabs and riding rides with no lines at Knottsberry farm.  I'm glad me and Creed got to stay later with you when mom had to go home.  That was the best trip I've ever had.  Thanks for hanging in there and not giving up and letting us visit you even when you don't feel good if the doctors let us.  Thanks for face timing us even when you feel really sick.

I love you,
Davin

To Dad From Kade

Dear Dad,
Thank you for always being there for me. Taking me to and from practice every day, teaching me new moves, going to work to put food on the table, and helping me achieve my goals. Thank you for everything you do and being the best dad ever. I cant wait until your out of the hospital taking me to practice everyday and tournaments every weekend. I know I am not always the best son, but I still love you and am thankful for every thing you do for me.
Sincerely,
Kade

To Dad From Sage

Dear Dad,

Whenever I am having a bad day at gymnastics, you always have something to tell me that makes me happy.  You make me feel better after you tell me it.  You are always proud of me no matter what and it makes me happy.  You are the best dad anyone could ask for.  You are super nice even when you're not feeling good.  You are the best dad in the world.  Keep fighting!!!  I love you.

Love,
Sagie Marie

We love you! Merry Christmas,!

Bryce,
B-brave
R-responsible
Y-youthful
C-caring
E-electric

"When you feel like giviing up, remember why you held on for so long in the first place".


Uncle Bryce is my hero, seeing him go through this gives me drive and hope that I can do the same. He is someone I look up to. You are so strong, in every aspect for your life, I've always envied you for that. I care for you, and wish I knew what I could do to help.  Things always get worst before they get better, I know things will turn around for you, because you are strong willed and bull headed, when you look cancer in the eyes, you tell it who's boss. 
I love you very much, and i pray for you every night, asking god to give you strength,hope, and desire and will, to make it. Bryce you mean so much to me, life with out you, isn't a life at all. 
I know you can do this, ill do it with you! Bryce I love you, you have so much to live for, 

 Just remember, never ever give up<3

Love Reagan 

3MTA3

Bryce..... Oh the memories, were to start! 9th grade football, the Bronco, your 68 mustang, the bug, the 56 ford, the grey Nissan, the Ranger holy cow memory lane, "Cruzin down the street in my 64....

Humpty, dumpty sat on the wall......, he was once a thought from around the way..... oh I could go on and on!!!!! the Delfa rolls big chills, dancing, cruising, launching water balloons, getting arrested, laughing, crying, golfing, basketball, football, hunting, sluffing, camping, lake Powell, flirting, did I mention Flirting!! You were always the ladies man! OK you got there attention we (Jared, Jeremy and I) usually ended up doing the talking!!! Ha ha  ha! Man on man could we write a book! Oh did I mention skipping work to go duck hunting, limiting out on ducks we never shot!!! Turkey hunting, Elk hunting, Deer Hunting!!!! But over the years there is one lesson you taught me that I will forever be grateful for! Remember 1992 after a basketball practice we had come home to change, may dad had purchased a new truck! I asked if he would let us take it down on main street for a lap, delfa roll and a Pepsi I'm pretty sure!!! anyway he said no, and I kept hounding him finally he kinda snapped and told me know in a very stern voice! I turned and we walked out and got in the ranger and I was murmuring in a not so nice way!!! You reached over grabbed me by my turtle neck, (cause I'm sure that's what I had on) and spun me around, looked me in the eyes and said," Don't you ever talk about your Dad like that! Do you know what I would give to have my dad to come home too! to talk too, to have him ask how my practice was, or even borrow 20$ from?" That night forever changed my life and my relationship with my dad! Bryce you have always been a great example too me! You have been a true friend, a hard worker! you have always stood for what is right and a true believer of Christ! I am proud to call you brother & friend!!! Look I wouldn't have a senor picture in guess overalls with one strap hanging off that I paid 80$ hard earned dollars for if it hadn't been for you!!!!! Yes folks it was the days of the pegged leg folded up pants, Gerbaud or however you spell those jeans, air Jordan's and guess overalls!!! Bryce I love you as a brother, keep your head up high!!! Your a Thompson!!!! YOU GOT THIS!!!

Love you! Brian

 

It's crazy how many hours we have spent in wrestling gyms together and this is one of the only pictures I have!  These two crazy boys are the reason we met and I'm so glad that we did.  Over the years our relationship has grown from random wrestling dads to friends.  We have talked each other off the ledge after bad practices and matches more times than I can count - thank goodness for another dad that gets it.
I can't wait for to you to finish kicking this in the butt so we can save each others sanity at the many endless seasons the boys have ahead.
You and your family are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.  We will forever be Thompson Tough.
Love - the Kohlers

Ripple Effect

Hey Bryce, I don't think we've ever actually met but after reading everyone's posts I'm really wishing we had.  I'm one of the many cousins of your sweet wife and from afar whether you knew it or not you and your family have had a big impact on my family's life.  I first heard about your condition when I was in College about 10 years ago.  I was thinking about going into medicine but hadn't really found that spark that really motivated me to jump in.  Thats when I heard about your condition and the amazing process you went through to get your healthy triplets via preimplantation genetic diagnosis.  Well I called Jenni right up and got the name and number of your doctor who performed the PGD procedure and soon we were in correspondence on a regular basis.  He became sort of a mentor and really motivated me to buckle down and get serious about going into medicine.  Well that started a chain of events that had me hesitantly applying to the medical school in Detroit just because his lab was there (a school I had never heard of and wouldn't have applied to otherwise).  Turns out it was the only medical school I got accepted to and kind of forced our hand to go there.  Well despite our reluctance Detroit was an amazing growing experience for our family and we ended up loving it.  I got a job with that same doctor and he really helped me through medical school and in landing a good residency which has translated into a very good job here in Colorado.  I know that without your story my family wouldn't be where we are today.  I'm not sure I would have gone into medicine to start with, I definitely wouldn't have been accepted to med school that first year applying (and it just gets harder to get accepted in subsequent years of application), the experiences in Detroit, residency, my current job, I feel like I have you to thank for so much of it.  I know you're going through a real rough spell but you never know who's life your courageous story is affecting for good.  It's affected ours, and we'll forever be grateful.  Stay strong!

Love The Hiltons
Levi, Arika, Jackson, Caden, Addison

Hi Bryce,

Merry Christmas!

I know... why did I choose this picture;) the one when you were afraid of me;) jk I am glad we have gotten to know each other so much more since then! I even get hugs from you now;) You are an amazing man and I am so thankful that I have such fun memories of you and you and Jenni! Island Park, your Lehi house when your triplets were born, your low-rider grey Nissan that was a big ole boombox, your amazing looks;) and big muscles! You are a great friend and we pray every day for your strength to fight through this fight and come out on top!! ThompsonTough!! Love ya, Tori

Hi Bryce,

I am writing you this note to tell you how much you mean to me. You have always been there for me and you set an example for me when we were young to believe in myself and to not care what other people thought. Many of my favorite memories of growing up involve the crazy things that we did and all of the fun we had together and with friends. Since Logan we have not spent a whole bunch of time together, but there is not a day that goes by that I do not think of one of the many really funny things that you said, or something that we did, You have a special way of making people feel good about themselves and you have always accepted me for who I am. One of my favorite memories is that day we were jumping off the bridge into the Snake River. I remember you doing swan dives and gainers off the highest point of the bridge and I barely dared to jump off once feet first. Jared and I must have sat up there for about an hour and a half before we jumped! On that same weekend I nearly got beat up by some dude, but he and his friends backed off at the last minute. I thought I probably scared them off, but later found out that they were terrified of you, and they figured that you would kill them all if they messed with me. That is just one of probably 50 stories that I think about often involving you.Your friendship has always meant the world to me and I am so thankful that you are still my friend. I love you and think of you as a brother. I plan to see you soon, and I can't wait to talk to you. I hope you have a merry Christmas and may God bless you and your family.

Your friend,

Shawn

The first time I met you I was in awe of your athleticism and your physical strength.  We played basketball, softball, and golf together and again it was your physical attributes that impressed me.  I loved playing ball with you and Eric and cherish the times we had together!  It wasn't until you and Jenni separated that I realized your physical strength was nothing in comparison to your spiritual magnitude, mental strength, and will power!  We had many talks during that difficult time for you where I felt I was just trying to support you and assist any way I could as a friend.  At that time the situation seemed so bleak and the possibility of you getting back together seemed impossible but you did not give up, you were so determined and demonstrated such tremendous faith.  Again I was in awe of your relentless determination and saw you make improvements in your life to become an even better man, husband, and father, than you were. So many others would have wilted or become angry at life, God or whatever else.  It is that same strength from which I know you draw upon now as you face this challenge in your life.
We have missed having you and Jenni and the family in St. George but with our move up here last week we sooo look forward to getting back together again!  I need someone to golf with up here and show me around all these courses.  We wish you the best possible Christmas and will continue praying for you and your family! We love you, Craig, Janalee & family

Bryce,
I know I haven't known you nearly as long as many of the people who have posted on here, but I feel like its been forever.   I remember when Jenni and I first started doing our running and we would talk about you and Mikey,  we would crack up at how much alike you two are. 
One thing about you I have always admired is your strength and courage in facing everything your family has over the years.  Not many can truly comprehend the amount of loss your family has suffered.  I can't imagine what it would take to just get out of bed sometimes.  Like a duck on a pond, you've always had such a smooth surface. 
I remember the time you drove all the way to Logan just to get Jenni's car since we had to leave it at our starting point at one of our races.  I remember thinking that not many husbands would drive that far, both ways, just so their wife can run a 2 day race with her crazy friend!!! 
I hope you know how much you are thought of everyday and how many people are praying for you and your family.  We believe in miracles and in you.
Lots of Love,
Camie (Mamu)

49th Street Galleria

Bryce,
 
We have been friends for longer than I can remember. There is not a time in my life that I can think of without you as my friend. We grew up next to each other. Going to the same classes, playing the same sports, getting into trouble together. Somehow if I didn't think of it you did and vise versa. We were never apart in our spare time until our parents moved. 
 
As teenagers we lived in different states but spent months in the summer  crusing the strip in AF shooting off fireworks in Lehi and going to the 49th Street Galleria. I can't even mention some of the fun and dumb things we did. But no matter what we did we did it together. 
 
I can't think of a better man and a better friend than you. To see the great man, father and husband you have become makes me smile. I know the trials you have had to face and overcome and cannot imagine how you have been able to be so strong. I can honestly say that your strength is an inspiration to me and to my family. I have so many fond memories of things we did together.
 
Most of my memories are of us playing basketball. If I remember correctly we split most of our wins. I also remember when we where very young we would create obstical courses and compete to see who could do them the fastest. We go so good at them that when we went up to camp tracy I beat the all time record on the course. Then you beat me and then I beat you again. You about tied me on  your second try, so we became the two fasted scouts on the course ever. We were so competative!!!
 
I love you and your family and would do anything for you. Please know that you can lean on me anytime. 
 
May the lord bless you and your family always.
 
Love you!!!!!!
 
Jenni,
 
Thank you for being a wonderful and supportive wife. Bryce is very lucky to have you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Thank you!!!!


James Hubbard

Uncle B

Two of my favorite memories are both from high school one from football one from wrestling. We were playing union and Bryce drove all the way out there to see me play and told me you better have a 200 yard game and I did and on some of my big runs you can hear him doing his ( oh ya baby take it to the house).. And the other is when he flew out to Reno to see me wrestling and nationals and he was just like my dad.  They both sat in my corner he made sure I had water and was eating the right amounts of food so I wouldn't be over weight the next day.. There are some many Bryce moments I've had with him that mean so much to me he has been there for me in so many ways.  I love you Bryce...

                                                                  Tyson 

Cheesy Mission Pictures

Bryce,

Where do I start?  I met Mr. Muscles in 1994 in San Diego California on my mission...no, I didn't give him that nickname, he gave it to himself.  I always admired Bryce and was so excited when I was told that Bryce was coming to Del Mar to be the Zone Leader and would be my companion.  Bryce told me the very first day, we are going to work our butts off, we are going to be obedient to EVERY rule, and most importantly we are going to have fun!  I remember being nervous that he was too strict and too good of a missionary for me.  After the first couple of days I could tell he was exactly what I needed to steer me in the right direction and help me be the person that I wanted to be.  He was my idol.  I looked up to him in every way.  He was the missionary that EVERYONE wanted to be like.  We had some success in an area that hadn't had any success, so they kept us together for nearly 6 months!  An eternal friendship had been born!  I thought of Bryce as more of my brother, he is blood, family forever.  I have many fond memories with Bryce, but one of my favorite to trll is when the apartment complex we lived in offered a free 8 x 10 picture for all the tenants.  Bryce was so excited!  i was shocked!  i hated getting my picture taken and he really wanted to do this.  So after some convincing, Bryce and I went to get our picture taken.  the photographer took a couple pictures and Bryce said, "oh crap! switch me sides, this is my good side!". I truly thought he was kidding, but he wasn't!!! So that is the picture I am sharing! Bryce, you truly are my HERO!!!!  Bryce, you are a modern day Job!  I love you more than you will ever know!  It breaks my heart to see you in pain and suffering!  If there was any way I could take away any of your pain I would do it!  It was an honor to be able to sleep over with you the other night and have a good long talk about life!  Lean on me buddy, I am here for you!  I have so much faith in miracles and I believe in YOU!  I'm here whenever you need!  You truly are my brother and I love you!  Keep the faith bro, we have a lot more memories to make!  I love you!  Psalms 23!!! Love, Big "T" Healey

Bryce... My fortune teller!  I always joke around with you that you can literally read my fortune.  I remember you saying to me, "You got back together with Jake, didn't you??"   Not long after that you asked, "Are you pregnant??"  Of course I said NO because we were told we could not have our own kids.  It wasn't even a week later I actually DID find out I was pregnant!  After I told you, you said, "It will be a girl!!  Your first little girl!"  And you were completely right.
I remember calling you when we found out Jake's cancer MAY have returned.  I was so scared and wanted a friend to talk to.  You always amazed me at how much you and your family had been through.  I was scared to death to have to help Jake go through cancer a SECOND time.  I remember you telling me, "Be positive!  It won't be back!"  I know you probably knew it was back (being my fortune teller and all)... but you were so encouraging and helped me to try to look for the best.  I was devastated when we found out indeed it was back.  I was always SO grateful for your encouraging words and texts during that time.  You and Jenni were so supportive and helpful.  Thank you.
I know that you guys were "waiting" for the time you would get cancer.  I know it scared you a lot.  I was devastated when Jenni text me to tell me that you had Leukemia.  I hoped and prayed that it would pass you by!!  You have always been a great example to me...
First off:  Your positive and driven attitude!
Secondly:  The love and support you give to your children.  You are an amazing dad!
Thirdly:  The way you love Jenni.  I know that she is your everything and always has been!
You LOVE everyone.  You treat EVERYONE with kindess.  You are appreciative.  You serve.  You look for the good in others and talk only of the good in others.  Those qualities right there are the most important.  You are so Christ-Like Bryce.
Thank you so much for your example and determination.  I know things are scary.  And it is ok to be scared!!!  You are one of the strongest men I know.  You can beat this.  And I pray you will.
Thank you for being such a great friend Bryce.  I hope you have A Merry Christmas.
Please know you are always in our thoughts and prayers.  I am brought to tears every single day when my children, Hadley being barely 3, prays for Bryce to feel better.
We love you and are rooting for YOU.
Love, Shana Gardner and family

Alaska

My best memory of time spent with Bryce was when he came to Alaska with his brothers, friends, and other family members. I do not remember exactly what year that was as I'm not good at remembering those things. But, I'll never forget the fun it all was. My son, Brian, married Meagan and so we became "family". That is an honor and a privilege and I'm proud of that. I love having the Thompsons as family!!! Ric called me one day and asked if they could stay with us. I said that I would be mad if the didn't stay with usl So, Bryce, Randy, Ric, ass't. friends, other miscellaneous family all headed to Anchorage arriving at various times on various days. By the time everyone finally got into town and got settled at our house, we had 10 overnight guests!! We had them in every corner possible. At some point, Bryce and Randy, took their cots and went to the garage to sleep. They said it was too hot in the house. I let them borrow my Durango to go fishing down on the Kenai Peninsula. Not long after their trip, I found a receipt for gas and it came to $100.00 !! Gas was rather high that summer. I think Bryce and Randy had buddy passes and had to wait for available seats to fly back to SLC. We dropped them off at the airport and I later found out that they weren't able to get seats on the plane that day....or the next day...or the next day. Rather than call us to stay with us, they just hung out at the airport for a number of days. They may have had to finally buy a full price ticket to get home. I'm not sure, but I think that is how it all turned out. It was so much fun for us to have them stay with us and I'm glad they got to see why we love living here. And, Bryce and Randy, we would love to have you come again. We are going to look forward to seeing you here again soon. Sending Love, Prayers, and Hugs, Carla and Bob Lewis

Team Bryce

My "Team Chambo" crowd is one of my most favorite memories.

Ever since I have been around Bryce he's been my biggest fan and supporter. This past season my favorite memory was right before the finals of the National Championship match I went out to walk on the stage. While I was on stage, I saw Bryce and Kade standing in the front row seats wearing their Team Chambo shirts proudly. There was over 15,000 fans in that arena and I vividly remember seeing them out of everyone there. 

Bryce has helped me with guidance and direction in my life. He was the first person I called to discuss where I should move my family and pursue my dreams of competing in the Olympics. I hold His wisdom and advice very close to my heart. 

While Abbey was very pregnant in Boise our car broke down. It was shortly after Ric had passed away and Angie didn't know how to help us. We called Bryce and he pulled some strings and hooked us up with the car that we drove to the hospital. Without his help I don't know what we would have done.

Bryce has been a huge influence in my life and I love him very much. He's always been the first one to reach out his hand and do anything to help my family and I. I've only been in the family a few years, but I feel like I've known Bryce my whole life because of the love and support he has shown me.

Life with Bryce

Bryce I've known you for 30 years there's a whole lotta memories wrapped up in those years.
Hard to choose one because you have been a part of everyday life ever since. First off, let me thank for your constant support of mine and Rics family!  You have always been there for us and we knew we could count on you for anything we needed!  Now let's see, some memories.....  your itemized Christmas list including price list, your Michael Jordan worship, watching you wrestle however briefly, watching you choose basketball over wrestling, then watching you play basketball, your little black truck, your big black truck, you getting hit by a train in that big black truck, me not believing you when you called to tell me you'd been hit by a train, watching you prepare for your mission and saying goodbye to you at the MTC,   Abbey cried because she was afraid you wouldn't remember her after two years away but you did and picked her up when you got off the plane.The picture you drew for Meagan when she was a very tiny baby.  You were so excited to be an Uncle, you were just little then.  When you were a teenager you taught her to say "totally awesome".You have been the best "uncle-brother" to all of my kids.All of my kids at one time or another asked if you were their brother.  Tyson wanted to quit wrestling because Uncle Bryce played basketball.  He used to sit right behind the bench and he loved Michael Jordan because you did.  You gave Alex her most loved and loyal companion, a stuffed dalmatian pup she named "Pongo."  Ric and I, and our kids being so excited about Kade. He was such a happy blessing that we all needed and we took countless photos of him and us with him. It was a like having my first grandbaby! Let's not forget taking turns tending your triplets at night, every different night choosing a different favorite. Creed was Alex's favorite because he was such a good baby for her. Tyson always picked Sage, and never let anyone else hold her. And I usually had Davin, he was always the best for me. And they were all VERY good for Ric, of course. So, so, many memories. Too many to list.  I am proud of you and I love you!
Ang

"Candy will you give you Diabetes." -Bryce Thompson

To start- agreed with Ashley, you have always been our brother. I even asked my parents when I was younger if you were our brother. My dad called himself Grandpa to your kids and to this is day I refer to them as my nephews and niece.

I remember when you brought Jenni over for the first time to our house. Not only could she do amazing back flips out back on our grass, she was beautiful. Still only JUST dating, Alex and I asked her that night when she was going to marry you? 

I loved you guys so much that when I had just learned about "guardians" I cried to my parents and asked if they both died could I please go live with Bryce & Jenni. They made me call and ask you if you would. 

I'd spend every weekend at your house babysitting the kids, or just being over there. I had the hardest time accepting your move to St. George.

Alex & me when Bryce & Jenni lived in the house in Payson- This was the litter of dogs we got our favorite dog, Bubba. (And I think Poopie was in this litter as well.) I remember going over there everyday, you always told us they were 'our puppies'.

Bryce & Vi at NCAA.- I was so grateful to have you and Kade there. Things like that are usually the hardest times for me wanting and missing my dad there. It warmed my heart to have you guys with us on that trip!

I love you very much and your family. Times spent at your house are some of my most favorite memories. And yes Uncle Bryce, Jason and I are going to have more kids... ;)

Believe in Miracles

Bryce, I have always admired you for your dedication to your wife and children. I've watched as you've supported each of your kids in the things that mean the most to them. Your love towards them has always been so tangible.

I believe in miracles with all my heart. I know there are hundreds of people united in prayer now, praying for a miracle for you and your family. Stay strong, stay Thompson Tough.

Love, Rick and Melissa Millward

Memories that make me Smile. :)

Dear Bryce,

I have so many memories of you that I do not even know where to start. I am so thankful that the Lord had it worked out that my family could live next to your family for all the years we did. You guys are such a blessing to me!! I am thankful for all the funny stories you would tell and the jokes you made and the times you would tease me about silly things like swimming or the day when I would learn to drive or other random things to just make us all laugh. That is one of my favorite things about you... You always looked for ways to put a smile on my face and the faces of those you cared about. You never forgot to ask me how I was doing or what I was learning in school or what new things I was learning on my swim team. I also really admire your generosity and care. I still remember that one time I was over playing with the kids and you went to the bank and brought us all home the new golden dollar coins. We were all so excited and I thought it was so thoughtful of you to do that. You always included me in your family's outings, dinners, fun times, and family and I am so blessed. I felt like the fifth Thompson kid!

Of all the memories I had, one of my favorites had to be the time that I wanted so bad to go to Bryce Canyon and take a picture just so I could bring it home to you. Dad had picked me up from a summer swim camp in Salt Lake City and on the way home to St. George we visited many national parks. Bryce Canyon was one that we were not going to visit though because it was to far off the route to drive home. But I wanted to go so bad so I could get that picture for you!! So I begged and begged Dad and he finally agreed and we drove all the way over and got an amazing picture of YOUR canyon! I could not wait to get home and print a copy and give it to you. I do not have a lot of old pictures on my computer but this is one I still have. I was just 13 years old then. :)

As I look at that canyon now, I cannot help but think of the God who created it and how he has all of life circumstances in his control. I can't even begin to imagine how hard it is going through this cancer, but I do know the God of the Bible is a comforter, redeemer, healer, and Friend to those who call upon his name. I pray that if it be God's will, that he heal this awful disease. Your spirit and will to never give up is amazing! I know you are a fighter. You have been through so much and God has been faithful to bring you through it and now, Friend, keep fighting this battle!!! I have a necklace that is a shield and it has this bible verse on it that I thought would encourage you to keep on fighting! "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Don't stop fighting!!

I miss the years when my family lived next to your family, but boy am I grateful for all the memories I have. It always makes me smile to see pictures of the kids now and watch them grow to be big and strong... just like their Dad. I thought you may enjoy a few of the old pictures I have with them to remember how little they were and so you to can smile big at how much they have grown!

Thank you for giving me all the memories you did and for always going the extra mile to make me smile! It has been a few years since our families moved away but know you guys are always in my thoughts and prayers, and I hope one day I can visit soon. I now just turned 21 and have been driving for 5 years... I swam varsity all four years in high school and was offered academic and athletic scholarships to the top state universities in California. I am in my 3rd year of business school and loving every minute of it. Thank you for making an impact on my childhood years of life. Merry Christmas 2013 and a Happy and Healthy 2014! I love you guys!!

Andie Dill

  

I'm still smiling big! :D

My Mentor, My Brother, My Friend

Bryce,

I have so many great memories together, far too many to possibly share.  Bryce I am truly grateful for the friendship we have.  You are one of the few people I can talk to about anything and everything! I am so grateful for all the wisdom and advice you have offered to me over the years.  I hope you know and understand how much of a positive impact you have had on me and my family.  We have been so blessed to be able to live so close to you and your family throughout the years.  You are the strongest person I have ever met!! I don’t mean just physically either (I tell everyone I can about the time I witnessed you lift your freezer effortlessly from one end of the garage to the other, A task that would have taken a dolly and at least three men to maneuver!!) but your mental strength is unlike anything I have ever seen!  You have been through so much throughout your life and I see you wake up happy, willing and ready to move on, this is an attribution I truly admire and strive to achieve myself!  You have shown me how to love unconditionally by your awesome example! Bryce I love you brother,  I cannot express in words the amount of love we have for you and your beautiful family! 

Jake Horrocks

{An Eternal Friendship} From Gary Crittenden

September 15, 1993 arrived and not sure if I even really wanted to be at the MTC, I grabbed ahold of your luggage and started the jaunt to the other end of the huge missionary facility.  I wished I could say that was the toughest time we would share together.  Dripping wet with sweat from lugging your “oversized luggage” up to the third floor, I knew we had a common bond from long before we actually met here on earth. 

   

Bryce, I know we were together in the beginning and I thank my Heavenly Father often that I made the choice to serve a mission so we could formally meet.  All the ups and downs that come with a mission were bearable because you were either just down the road or a quick phone call to a neighboring zone.  Then SNOW COLLEGE, or Slow Knowledge, as we called it!  WOW, not sure what I really learned that year but yes we did experience much together.  Loved the intramurals, talks, drives to SLC for our fast-pitch softball games, the “bad smells” in our room and I can’t forget me trying to beat the women (just like on the mission) off of you.  I hated that year to end but knew we had to move on with our lives.  I must admit that a flood of memories come rushing to my mind as I type this. 

Some include: you as my “Best Man” on Sept. 13^th 1997, the late night(s)-2 day tile job at the old main street house, selling mattresses, all the fix-ups-door hanging-base & case-etc. on my house, my sportsman tag elk hunt, all the texts & phone calls, Larry & sons, wrestling tournaments, Ric, and so many more.  I LOVE you and can’t wait for the day when I can receive answers to some of our/my eternal questions we have discussed.  We are promised that if we remain faithful we will be rewarded not only in this life but also the next.  One thing that I do know at this time is that because of your example of faith and doing good works, I am a better father, husband, and teacher.  I LOVE you for so many things but mostly because I know our friendship will transcend this earthly life and live through the eternities.  I wish you the best through this battle.  I want You, Jenni, Kade, and the Thomletts (Davin, Sage, & Creed) to know that I pledge my support.  I will be here to help with anything.  Thank you for always being there for me.  From our house-Me, Cassie, Ethan, the Crittlets (Ella, Evan, & Cael) to yours, we wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS.  May you feel the Saviors LOVE surround you now and through this healing process.  I thank your sweet wife for asking me to share a few memories we have experienced.  I LOVE you and already have a hall pass to use for this upcoming non-dangerous (I threw that in here for Jenni’s behalf) BEAR HUNT!  

Get well my friend,

LOVE Gary R. Crittenden