Ryan Shields
Brad was someone you noticed immediately, not because he demanded attention, but because he had such a unique presence. He was a giant of a guy who could seem intimidating at first, but the moment he spoke you realized how gentle and kind he truly was. I met him before I even became friends with Matt, and months later when Matt brought me over to Brad’s home after school, I recognized him instantly. I still remember the aluminum foil art sculpture he was working on back then and how creative he was. What always stayed with me most, though, was the way he treated Matt. Even at a young age, Brad carried himself with a maturity beyond his years and treated his younger brother with genuine respect and love. Those memories have stayed with me all these years, and I think that says everything about the kind of person Brad was. Sending love to Matt, Grandma, and everyone who loved him.
