Josh Kearschner
"He never met a stranger." "He always had a kind word." "He gave the best hugs." "I will never forget him."
These are but a few of the statements from the people who were fortunate enough to have known Josh Kearschner. Although his life was short, he touched more lives in his few years than many of us will in a lifetime four times as long.
Josh loved his family and his church. After graduating from Salem High School, he spent two years on a mission in Taiwan for his church. During that time he saw many things and learned a great deal, but in his heart he remained the same kind person who would constantly search out someone who needed a smile or a hug to lift their spirits.
"It was obvious that the young man did not know a stranger," commented Gene and Dona Griffin. "He had a knack for striking up conversations and making everyone feel comfortable. You knew you occupied his complete attention when he talked with you." This gift was not limited to people his own age. Josh was able to effectively communicate with anyone he came in contact with. Many children and adults considered Josh their best friend.
But it was in the little things that Josh will be remembered. His smile. His hugs. The way he loved to play the piano. The time he drove an hour to deliver a birthday card and chocolate chip cookies. "Josh did simple acts of kindness all the time," stated Carolyn Turner.
He was also a gifted musician. He composed and recorded several original instrumental songs, which are now available on tape and CD. Anyone who listens to his music can feel his depth and tenderness and can imagine a heart full of love for others.
His social skills were well beyond his years. "He was sensitive to notice which people weren’t socializing (at a party) and didn’t know the other guests. He made a point to introduce himself and then proceed to visit with those who were alone," observed Rita Roberts. "Josh lit up a room whenever he entered. His energy and excitement touched everyone he was around," commented Carol Hedrick.
After his death, Josh’s many, many friends worked together to establish a fund in Josh’s memory. The Josh Kearschner Memorial Fund with the Washington County Community Foundation will benefit missionaries from Josh’s church, the Church of the Latter Day Saints. Since this is an endowed fund, it will give to Josh’s beloved church year after year, forever, thus keeping Josh’s memory alive in Washington County.
