Memorial Fund for Thunder Grinde

On September 16, 2022 Thunder Grinde unexpectedly passed away. Thunder’s obituary can be found at https://www.castanet.net/obituaries/GRINDE_%2C_Thunder/26294/

We are raising funds to support Thunder’s mother Kristy and little brother Matias get through this devastating time.

Thunder was a beautiful, wise soul whose light touched the many people who were lucky enough to know him. Thunder felt the world's injustices very deeply, and sadly took them upon his own emotional shoulders, which became a burden most would be unable to bear. He longed for there to be peace and love on Earth.

Thunder’s kind heart and warm smile left a positive impression that was felt by all. Unfortunately, with a deep care for those he loved, Thunder was unwilling to share this burden with others and suffered silently. Thunder lost this battle to suffering and took his life.

Tragically Thunder is not the only teen or adult who has succumbed to the same illness. Like many, Thunder experienced sadness from time to time but nobody knew the extent of it. The loss of our beautiful Thunder has been a tragedy that will forever alter our lives and hearts.

Thunder grew up in Kelowna and recently graduated from high school. He earned a never before given honor, the Four Food Chiefs award. He spent time with his Nana, Dianne Grinde, on holidays and some weekends helping out with the cooking and canning. Thunder was his mom’s biggest cheerleader, supporting her goal to obtain two post- secondary degrees and supporting her art. Thunder was such an amazing big brother to Matias always protecting and guiding him. It has been a devastating blow for Thunder's family as they try to find a way through the immense grief of losing Thunder.

Kristy will need to take significant time away from work to heal and be there for her surviving son Matias. There are currently no specific funds allocated for suicide survivors. During this time away from work, they will need support with their daily living expenses including food, shelter, dental, and clothing for Matias. Both Kristy and Matias will also need specialized counselling as the survivors of suicide can experience compounded grief and complications in the bereavement process. Kristy would also like to hold a celebration of Thunder’s life in the future and make sure all that would like to attend are able.

Everyone is dealing with the tragic loss of Thunder in their own way. If you are struggling to cope, know that there are supports for you during this difficult time. Here are some places to start:

The BC Bereavement Helpline can link you to available resources for coping with your grief: 1-877-779-2223.

The Suicide Helpline can be called anytime, day or night if you are having feelings of despair or thoughts of suicide: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

The KUU-US Crisis Line provides culturally safe supports 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week to Indigenous youth and adults. Adult line: [phone redacted] – Youth line: [phone redacted]

Kristy would like to express gratitude to those who have already shown support during this difficult time and respectfully requests privacy.