Chad was fun loving and fearless. One of my most vivid memories was when my family visited Texas and Chad took Liz, my brother Eric, and me to Six Flags amusement park. He insisted that we go on all the biggest roller coasters, much to my dismay. Not wanting to be a complete baby and after his persuasion, I rode them all, and he found it quite amusing when my head was in the trashcan afterwards. When we were riding a roller coaster called The Titan, they snap your picture just as you are going off a huge drop. We ended up buying the picture because it was so funny. Liz and my brother looked panicked, I was crying, and Chad looked like he was having the time of his life, with his hands in the air, and a huge smile on his face. Chad loved to tease, and referred to me as baby Lauren the rest of the day!
One thing I admired most about Chad was his strong commitment to family. Chad stayed with our Grandma in Sioux Falls, when she couldn’t be left alone, when our Grandpa was in the hospital. When we needed someone to watch our new puppy when we went on vacation, Chad came to Minnesota and hung out with him. He consistently made time to spend with family, and he was there if anyone needed him. It was so evident that Chad cared immensely for his family.
I will deeply miss our pheasant hunts in South Dakota, our fishing trips to Canada, and playing cards and visiting at Grandpa and Grandma’s house. I will miss your playful teasing, your sense of humor, and your infamous “knuckle massages and snakebites,” even though they hurt like hell! Most of all I will miss your kindness and your love for fun. You left a lasting impression on our family, Chad, and we will miss you greatly.

My heart goes out to Chad’s family, and I am at a loss for words.

I love Chad and will miss him dearly.

Dan,
So sorry for your loss…
I am a biologist by study and an outdoorsman by nature much like Chad. I thought it fitting to donate to the Perot Museum as I think Chad would have wanted to know his life’s work will continue forever on.
Take care of your family and we will take care of business from here until you are back on your feet.

I know that Chad was loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

So So sorry for your loss.

I was a grad student with Chad at UTA, and he was one of the few people I could always count on for a cheery greeting and some serious science geekiness (especially if he had baby anoles in the lab!). He was a rare kind of guy that could couple his abundant enthusiasm with a relaxed attitude, something I always envied that about him. Chad made such a huge impression on everyone who knew him, and I know he will be missed dearly.

Our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to all the family. Dan, I never had the opportunity to meet Chad but I am sure he was like the bright ray of sunlight that begins every new day to all his family and friends. Remember him that way always my friend and you will see his smile at every sunrise.