Ty Ehlinger

Ty and I met when we were just teens. We quickly grew close and soon enough, I was dating and in love with someone who I for sure was convinced that I was going to marry. Ty was the Ty we all knew: sweet, smart, and passionate about the justice he wanted to see in our society. He adored My Chemical Romance, Green Day, fashion (specifically his shoes), and a plethora of other things. He was a wonderful boyfriend, relationship partner, and most of all, a wonderful person to enjoy life with. He loved people so deeply, he cared about everyone he knew to no end.

I miss him all the time. Not one day goes by where he doesn't cross my mind or there isn't something that reminds me of him in some way. We were together for almost 3 years, and in those years, I've watched him grow and I also saw the ugly side of addiction. He was a fighter, no doubt. He'd express to me how he wanted to get better, how we wanted to fully kick them when we were married and had a family of our own. He was one of the strongest people I've ever met. I loved him eternally and I still do. He made me feel special in every way possible and in some cases, he was all I had. We had each other and it brought me so much comfort to know that I had someone who loved me no matter the circumstance. I remember he'd drive to see me after work. We'd aimlessly walk around stores, go eat, or go back to his place and just be one with each other. I was overjoyed to hear he'd accomplish his big goal: to graduate with high honors. I knew how happy he was to finally have a step in the career he wanted. He was so full of life and it will never fade away. He always lives in my mind and my heart. I wish he was here, but it brings me solace to know he is at peace with himself and the world he wanted to change. He is still so loved by his family and friends. His story will never be forgotten.