Traven Nate Trusler was born on April 8, 1992. Although he was only 4 pounds, 14 ounces God knew that big things come in little packages. Born with severe scoliosis, doctors claimed that he would not live to be a teenager. Traven proved his spirit time and again as he paved the way for others encouraged by his perseverance. The first 3 years of his life were spent in a body brace or cast with countless trips to Shriner’s Hospitals. Around this time, Dr. Casky and Dr. Campbell met at a conference and determined that Traven could benefit from an experimental surgery to insert a titanium rib for support. With the help of attorneys Randy Bishop and Bob LaRoche, pro bono, Traven was the first scoliosis recipient setting precedence for others in need of this same procedure. The surgery was performed by Dr. Campbell and Dr. Smith. His follow up care was through his pediatrician, Dr. Sauer in Billings. His Gramma Jackie attended every surgery. Traven’s 22 years entailed almost 30 surgeries which enabled him to lead a full and productive life. Traven inspired everyone who was fortunate enough to meet him. His school years began at Ashland Public School where the love for a favored red chair started and carried on until his graduation from Broadus High School. He contributed to the band playing the maracas and he worked hard helping with concessions at the after school events. Traven’s school years were characterized by his positive, loving attitude. His classmates as well as teachers responded with acceptance and reciprocal love and respect. This was evidenced when he was crowned prom king by the high school student body. One of Traven’s favorite things was basketball. Traven entertained and contributed to the teams morale by making baskets and “scoring points” for the team during half time. He was never short of rebounders. Traven’s family was very important to him and he always looked forward to family activities. Whether it was spending the night with Auntie Q, having fun at the ranch on 4-wheelers, tractors and ranger rides with his Dad, or going to the dam, Traven always enjoyed time with loved ones. Traven shared an extra special love with his sister, Tiarra and brother, Teegan. He enjoyed helping his Mom with the “wittle ones”. Keeping them in line was a job he took seriously. Traven was their biggest fan and loved following them to their activities. He especially treasured the endless supply of hand-delivered “brain freezies”. Traven knew that brain freezies could fix just about anything, Jordans and crazy socks always go together, clothing is an option, uncrustables are basically a five star meal, peanut M&M’s count as a vegetable, when you pack-take everything and if nobody is looking you can have more than one. He had an amazing ability to multi-task between the computer, iPad, TV, and laptop and answering the phone. Some of his favorite pastimes included swimming, supporting the Hawks, passing out candy on Halloween and weekly luncheons. No matter what the situation was, Traven brought everyone together and the community embraced him. He always had a smile that lit up his face. Traven brought laughter and joy with his one liners and eyebrow look over his glasses. He thought that if you had a good enough smile you could get away with anything, and he was right. Traven saw the world as God intended. He was blessed to have so many willing teachers, aides, and therapists to guide him. He taught us many things spiritually through his inspiration and sheer determination. Words cannot express how thankful we are for each and every person who touched Traven’s life along the way. We will be forever grateful.
Traven passed Tuesday, August 12, 2014 from a seizure. He is survived by his parents; Ernie Trusler and Vanessa Richards, siblings; Tiarra and Teegan Trusler, grandparents; Jackie Trusler, Dave and Carole Richards, and Dianne Engel, great-grandparents; Kenneth Engel and Eugenie Richards. Aunts and Uncles include Tim and Vonnie Stroebe, Johnny Trusler, Brendon and Jeannie Traub, Rakki and Steve Gooding. Cousins; Shane and Amanda Stroebe, Eddie and Kevin Avila (Eddie Jr), Anthony and Kari Popke (Rylan, RaeAnn, Tristen), Jennifer and Nathan Cox, Braydon and Bryce Traub and Kahla and Tate Dempewolf ( Kashli).
He was preceded in death by grandfather; W.C. (Billy) Trusler, great-grandparents; Woodrow (Woody) and Gladys Trusler, John and Donna Rukavina, John Richards, and Iona Engel.
Visitation will begin on Sunday, August 17, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Broadus with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 18, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Powder River High School Gym. Private family interment will be held at the Willow Crossing Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Broadus is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to First Bank in Broadus to help with equipment for the school.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday August 17, 2014
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Broadus, Montana 59317
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday August 17, 2014
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday August 18, 2014
Powder River High School Gym
Broadus, Montana 59317
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday August 17, 2014
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Broadus, Montana 59317
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday August 17, 2014
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday August 18, 2014
Powder River High School Gym
Broadus, Montana 59317
Share
Jay Badgett says
Vanessa, Ernie & family,
Sorry for your loss… thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Kim Wash Hostetter says
Oh, Vanessa, I’m so very, very sorry. Praying for you and your whole family.
Pat Corbin says
Vanessa, I am so sorry for this news. Traven was such a joy to work with. So many happy memories, hold them close to your heart. Prayers to you and your family. I know this is a terrible blow to you. Hugs to all.
Pat Franklin says
Dear Vanessa and family, So sorry for your loss! He was such a great little man! I’m going to miss him. Love Grandma Pat.
Duane and Debbie Talcott says
Vanessa, Ernie & family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. May your happy memories carry you through this sorrowful time. I can’t think of a time I saw Traven without a smile, may you find comfort in knowing you were a special part of such a well lived life.
Dan Fraser says
Vanessa and Family – So sorry for your loss.
Eric and Bobbie Myers says
Vanessa, Teegan, and Tiarra,
We are so sorry to hear of Traven’s passing. He was a special person and had a personality that permeated throughout the community. Broadus will not be the same without him. We were all lucky to have had the chance to have him in our lives.
Christy Olson says
Vanessa & Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Traven. You all are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Karalee Fritz says
Vanessa and Family,
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Traven. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jake Terzo says
I am sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with your family through this time traven was an awesome friend to have
Dee Katus says
Dear Vanessa and Family – I am so, so sorry to learn about Trevan. Thoughts of him will always bring a smile to my face. You are a great mom, Vanessa, and please know others are holding you and your children close in our hearts with love and deepest sympathy. Sending constant prayers, Dee
Rita Hanley says
Vanessa and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. God Bless.
Sue Tarter says
Vanessa, Know in your heart that Traven had the best life because you were his Mom. Thinking of you and the family during this time of sorrow. Love you, Sue
Lori Melotz says
Ernie Bill, so sorry to hear of Traven’s passing. You are in Alan’s and my prayers. Take Care!
Lori & Alan Clark
A lice Robinson says
To the Trusler family I have thought of Taven a lot,,,,,l and feel blessed to been in his life….he was very rare ,,, and very loved by people you did not know he loved him……my love and prayers are with you at this time….
Cathy Emmons says
Vanessa and Family~~It just is not going to be the same on the sidelines of Hawk games. My heart goes out to you all at the time and I hope that the happy memories you have will help you at this sad time. In Traven’s memory we are donating to Heads Up Hearts Strong.
Bob and Cathy Emmons
Vern and Carolyn May says
To the family of Traven; You are in our thoughts and prayers. He was a special boy that will be missed. May God give you comfort and peace during this difficult time. Hang onto the memories you have made together. They will help you get through the days ahead.
Veda says
Vanessa and family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Marlin Whitedirt & family says
Sorry for your loss you are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Stephanie Best says
Vanessa, Tiarra, Teegan, Ernie, Grandparents, Neices and nephews:
My deepest sympathies on Traven’s passing. Praying for peace, comfort, strength and love in the many days ahead. Hold onto the memories.
Craig and Anna Rukavina and Family says
Ernie, Vanessa and Family, we are so sorry for your loss. There are no words to describe. I bet Traven is introducing God to Brooks and Dunn by now!
Kenny and Kelly Babb says
Vanessa, Ernie, Tiarra, Teegan and family
So sorry to hear the sad news. My heart is broken with yours. Traven was a ray of sunshine to all who had the privilege to know him! He will be missed and remembered in many fond memories. With heartfelt sympathy and prayers for comfort.
Love and God bless,
The Babbs
Dave & Pam Nisley says
To Traven’s loved ones,
We care deeply for all of you – this is such a huge loss! We are so blessed to have known him, and look forward to a wonderful reunion again one day! HOW BLESSED HE WAS TO HAVE ALL OF YOU!! What a loving , and giving family you are!! Hugs and prayers for comfort~ We care.
Wanda Bixby says
sorry for your loss, Traven was so loved and cared for he will always be in our hearts and prayers he and grampa BILLY are together and he will watch over him I always
remember we couldnt use the can opener at school as it scared him so he was such a sweetheart and always hello Wanna May God wrap his loving arms around you and guide you all
Bill & Denice Hedges says
Vanessa, Ernie and girls, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time. keep those happy, wonderful memories on your mind to help you through these dark days. His smile will warm everyone’s hearts forever. god bless you all…
Bill & Denice Hedges
Ginger says
Our hearts are heavy and sad with Trav’s passing. He was truly a shining star, and the biggest fan of m&m’s the world had ever seen! I’ll miss him calling me “Joon”……it made me smile.
Stay strong in knowing you’ll all see him again, and that he’ll be the angel to watch over you until then. Prayers of peace and love to the family.
Keith Rukavina & Family says
Ernie, Vanessa & Family
So sorry for your loss, you are all in our thoughts and prayers . Traven was a very special person and will be missed by all. We feel blessed to have been a part of his life during all those trips to Texas.
tammy & john schoenbeck says
Nessa, Ernie, Tiarrra & Teegan
i am so sorry for your loss, Trav was an awesome man, i will so remember his teasing me about the water being cold & always asking how Austin was, you did a fantastic job Nessa, go with God old friend, meet you on the other side.
Kebi Smith and famly says
My heartfelt sympathy to you all. He enriched many lives. Thoughts and prayers.
Julie, Kurt, Madison & Sage says
Vanessa, Ernie, Tiarra & Teegan,
We are so sorry for the loss of Traven. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. He was such a special person, so ready with a smile and a hug. He will leave many cherished memories in the hearts of all who were so fortunate to know him! The games won’t be the same without him.
Aunt Karen says
Vanessa, Ernie, Tiarra & Teegan,
Traven brought so much joy into each of our lives. None of us will forget his quick wit and sunny smiles that always greeted us. I know you are sad, but always know that your constant love and attention made his life a happy one. Grandpa Billy will make sure he continues to be happy.
Carmen Knutson says
Vanessa and Families- God gives us the very special people, like Traven, to show us the right way to live our lives. With laughter, smiles and love for all. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers, hugs to all!
Wayne & Anita Wetherelt says
He inspired so many lives, & those memories will live on forever. God really blesses all of your family with such a special person. I too will miss him, especially his Gramma greeting to him each time we met. Love & Prayers to all of you with so much sympathy to all of you.
Melissa Fisher says
My deepest condolences to the family
RIP little angel you will be greatly missed
Pam Nelson says
the family of Traven we are sorry for your loss, always looked forward to him and his between game basketball performances. may he rest in peace…
Darold & Sylvia Zimmer says
So much sympathy to all of the family… Vanessa, so much love and prayers to you as you try to endure this emptiness as you continue with your minutes, hours and eventually days. The Lord will have a special place for this loving child in His heavens and lots and lots of smoothies!! I am really going to miss sweet Traven. Love you, Sylvia
Tami & Family says
Vanessa & Ernie Bill,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful son with us – he always had a smile for everyone.
God Bless in your time of loss.
Megan Emmons says
My prayers and love to you. Traven was always a ray of sunshine, and will forever have a special spot in my heart! He was an example of God’s love.
Karen Gunther says
my thought and prayers are with you Vanessa and the rest of the family. I have so many memories of Traven growing up and always love the way he would say Hi Karen, in the little voice he had, so darn cute. I know you will have many memories to remember Traven.
Kenneth Cluck says
My heart breaks for you guys right now. I worked with Traven occasionally at the Ashland school. He always had a smile and such a big heart.
Rob & Shauna Morgan says
Vanessa, Ernie & the huge extended family you have,
We are both thinking or you, I know your hearts are broken now but also know that your memories are great and many of your special man! I don’t think I ever saw Traven without a smile on his face.
Jerry and Joyce Strobel says
Traven was truly a ray of sunshine! As we think of him, we smile at his radiant positive spirit and sunshine smile and at the same time ache with you for your loss. How blessed he was to have the love that you all poured into him. May those precious memories uphold you as you cling to the Lord with all His strength and compassion. “The Lord God is the SUN and protector…..blessed are those who trust in Him.” Psalm 84:11, 12
We keep you in our prayers, Jerry and Joyce Strobel
Michelle Wilson says
To The Family of Traven: My thoughts are with you during your loss. He was a great man from the little bit that I knew him. He will be missed by many. May the memories you have bring you comfort in the days to come. Remember “It’s not the number of years in a life, it’s the life in the number of years”. I think Traven lived his life to the fullest with the awesome help from his family and friends.
Desiree Johnson says
We are so sorry for your loss Vanessa, Ernie & family. He was a bright light and we loved to visit with whenever we were in Broadus. He will be remembered for his big smile and his upbeat spirit and big heart. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this time. May he rest in peace in God’s gentle embrace.
Cindy Stanton says
Vanessa, Ernie & family,
My sincerest sympathy for your loss.
Donna Stevenson and Family says
Ernie, Vanessa, Tiarra, and Teegan
May you find comfort in knowing Traven touched so many lives and was loved by all. We will miss him. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
JOHN & JULIE MALDONADO AND FAMILY says
Prayers to Vanessa and Ernie Bill. The took another angel, our condolences to the family.
Linda C. Nybakken says
Vanessa & Family,
My thoughts, prayers and sympathy for you and your family. May you take comfort in the fact that Traven touched you and so many and that you gave him 22 years of great care and love. Linda Cook Nybakken
June Ray says
Going to miss that smiling face at the Library.
Our prayers are with you Vanessa & family.
Kathy Nance Dietz says
Vanessa, Ernie and extended family & friends,
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your tremendous loss. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers and I’m so glad to have met Traven. What an optimistic and fun young man! What fond memories everyone has of him and he touched so many. You gave him a wonderful life and he’s smiling down on you now:) God Bless!
Aletta Shannon says
Traven will always live on….. in our hearts and memories. He touched many lives and will not be forgotten for his endless smiles, caring about others in such a special way and the #1 HAWK FAN! He was so special because of the fine work you did in taking care of him. God has a special place for him. You’re all in our thoughts and prayers. May time and special memories help ease your pain.
Rhonda Raschkow says
Vanessa, Ernie and family:
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I cannot imagine- and with all the words I have read, I wish I had known Trevan. I pray that you find joy in all the hours, days, months and years that he brought to your lives here in Earth. May God bless you and your family.
Judy Williams says
To Traven’s Family: You don’t know me but I know of you through my association with Gayle Trusler (we were social workers together many years ago) and the Pro Bono Program. Bob LaRoche updated me about Traven over the years and I was so happy that he did so well after that “experimental” surgery.
I’d like you to know that Traven’s legal case inspired many lawyers to participate in Pro Bono Programs over the years and was even used as an example by a U.S. 9th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals Judge in at least one Law School Graduation address.
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your family’s loss.
J Johnson says
My sincere condolences to the family of Traven Nate Trusler – May you find comfort in your loving memories and in recalling Traven’s many talents. It was not the Creator’s purpose that mankind suffer (Romans 5:12). God has promised that a time will come when no one will say “I am sick” (Isaiah 33:24). In the Bible we are promised a resurrection of dear family members and friends that we have lost (John 5:28, 29). I hope you are comforted by Bible promises of a hopeful future (John 17:3).
Vicki & David Sweat says
Vanessa & family, our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this time. I will always remember his smile. Every time I seen him he always had a smile.
Lynda Woods (Nance) says
Vanessa & family, Traven was a bright light to all who met him! My heart is heavy for your loss. Thinking of you … and hope you are comforted by the outpouring of love from the community! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Curtis and Amy Talcott says
Vanessa, Ernie and family
We are so sorry for your loss! You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Carla Marinko says
Vanessa, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always remember his big smile. God bless you and your family.
Bobbi Ballou says
So sorry for the loss of your son….sending hugs and prayers.
Jennifer Gooding says
I feel so fortunate to have finally gotten to meet him a few weeks ago. Rakki and my Brother spoke so highly of him for years, and his photo has graced their prime spot on the refrigerator every time I visit. This is a loss to the world – he emanated joy. My heart goes out to each and every friend and family member.
Jim & Faye Wagner says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time of sorrow. So sorry for your loss.
Bobbi Rumph says
So sorry for your loss. Traven was such a special and inspirational young man, always smiling! I hope you can find some comfort in God during this incredibly difficult time.
Deb McClaren says
Ernie Vanessa, and family. I am so sorry to hear about Traven. I’m sure he is up in Heaven smiling at all of us right now. He was one of the strongest people I know. Keep smiling Traven
Teresa Geib Bacon says
Dear Vanessa and Family, I don’t know you but I know of you and your wonderful family. My Grandchildren are Kylie and Ellis and they speak so highly off Traven.
His life was so full of love given to him and that he gave to others!
May you find comfort in the Lords Love. Blessings, Teresa Klein Bacon
Lody Mader Dye says
That just might be the most beautiful eulogy I’ve ever read. It is so evident that what is truly important in life, was important to Traven. We get caught up in so many things that have no meaning.. what a great reminder of how to live. I recently gave this quote from my Dad, and it is worth repeating: “Live so people don’t have to lie at your funeral”. Well done Traven. Vanessa and Ernie and family, what an amazing job you have done. My hat is off to you and my heart, prayers and thoughts are with you. If I could be home I would be there.. I’ll be with you in spirit. May the Lord walk with you every moment of every day.
Ella Mae and Allen Drane says
So very sorry Vanessa and Ernie, God gave you a gift you loved and nourished for 22 yrs ,and wonderful memories to last a lifetime, we are all here for you, everyone loved your son.
Rori Rogge says
Vanessa and family-
I am so sorry to hear about Trav. He was such a special young man with a wonderful spirit and a contagious smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Menawe(Melani) says
Traven was such a joy, his smile and hugs were the best. I am so grateful to have gotten to spend the time I did with him. Thank you Vanessa, Ernie, Tiarra, Teegan, and all his grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins for sharing Traven with me and allowing me to be a part of his very special world.
Kelly Stevenson & family says
Ernie, Vanessa, Tiarra, and Teegan
I’m sorry for your loss. Traven was an inspiration to all who knew him. I loved going to the hawk games and seeing Travin having so much team spirit. Keeping your family in prayer.
Lisa Gaskill says
The words “fortunate” to meet Traven could not be more accurate. He was an inspiration (as are you, Vanessa). I am certain that anyone Traven met was truly blessed for having known him. I know we all were. God Bless You, Traven. Watch over your Earth Family and we will all see you again someday.
Brendon Traub says
Love You TaTer Tot
jennifer bauer says
Im so sorry for your loss. But wanted you to know that traven was such a blessed child to have a mom like you!! You gave him your all and made his life full a nd rich!! Vanessa……it was beautiful watching the two of you together……it was a dance of love. And an inspiration to us all!!!!! Rest in sweet peace traven!!!!
Ed and Bev Schaffer says
Vanessa and family, our hearts are heavy and saddened at the loss of Traven. What a special young man he was with that huge smile on his face, he will be missed! May God give you comfort and peace through the following days and months. Rejoice in knowing he is now in the arms of our Lord.
Tami Jenkins says
Vanessa I am so blessed to have had the pleasure of working with Traven and knowing him for so very short a time. You gave me a plaque of thanks that said “some people come into our lives and quickly go, others leave footprints.” Even though our time together was short, Traven left a footprint on my heart and the hearts of so many others. He will be missed! So sorry for your loss. I am praying for all of you!
Casey Danielson says
So so sorry for your loss!!! God Bless you all!!!
Jean Hofmann-Quinn says
Vanessa and family , no words to express just hold on to your memories. Prayers and thoughts….
KC and Lauri Keith says
We are so sorry for your loss. We are thinking and praying for all of you.
Fran & Stan Oswald says
Ernie & Vanessa,
We are so sorry to hear of Traven’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Linda Richards Macy says
So sorry for you loss.
Chad & Kim Vivian and kids says
Ernie Bill, Vanessa and family,
We are all so sorry for your loss. Traven was an intelligent young man. He always asked how Kega was (Mikayla). You are in our thoughts and prayers!
Talana Klungland says
I will always remember Key and Braydon’s 1st bday party in the park and how Traven played with Key and followed him. He was an amazing young man, then and still. Thank you for introducing me to him again this past year. His smile was contagious and so was his spirit. May God bless you all in your time of grief by helping you to remember the memories you have of him.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
Ernie, Vanessa and families,
we are so sorry to hear of Traven’s passing. Loved his smile everytime we saw him. The basketball season’s won’t be the same without him there to cheer everyone on. We will cherish the memories that we have of him and keep them close to our hearts. God Bless you all.
Lance Monteau says
I am very sorry for your loss.
Julie Gatlin and Kenny Gress says
Vanessa, Ernie and family
So sorry to hear of Traven’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are for you and family.
Dora says
To Traven’s Family…My sincere condolences and prayers for you all. Traven touched many hearts in his humorous and loving ways, captured wonderful moments full of laughter and joy, and was truly compassionate towards all that he met. I will miss his awesome smile and mischievous glint in his eyes. I know that Traven was one of my best teachers! God Bless you, Traven… And I thank the family for sharing Traven with me.
kitte coffin says
Vanessa, Ernie, Tiarra, Teegan and all of Traven’s huge family that he loved: I pray that GOD will help you through this difficult time and strengthen you in the days ahead in Jesus’ name.
Jeanie Hanic says
Ernie ,Vanessa I’m very sorry for you loss
Audrey & Shane says
I can’t begin to tell you of the sorrow I have for Traven’s passing. But at the same time I feel honored to have known him. You all gave him a fantastic life. Your love and dedication to him was amazing. I know that Billy and Traven are having a great time together. Thank you for sharing Traven with the rest of us. He filled so many lives with much joy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Margaret Ursuery says
So sorry for the passing of Traven. I pray for peace within your hearts as one of life’s blessing is truly an Angel with wings now.
Sharon Trusler Miller says
Dear Trusler family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know I never met Traven but I did hear about him from different family members. Gayle Trusler was my sister and I know of your case and everything. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers on this sad occasion but I know you have many happy memories .to get your through this unhappy time.
DeWanda Little Coyote says
So sorry for your loss! Prayers for your family during this difficult time.
Sally Paulson says
I never had the opportunity to meet your son…don’t have a connection in any way, but when I read his loving obituary in the paper, I knew I had to tell you that you wrote so beautifully that I feel like I know him. What an amazing young man he seemed to be and so very loved. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this incredibly difficult time. Just know that there are people all over …people you don’t even know…that want to say how so very sorry we are for your loss.