Obituary of Gavin Christopher Riker

Our son, Gavin, was unexpectedly called home to be with Jesus on Sunday, August 28, 2016.He was born to Steven George Riker and Debora Susan (Keegan) Coe on December 5, 1994 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Gavin was joyful, playful, and giving from an early age. There was a "light", a joy that filled the room whenever he entered. Gavin gave encouragement and support to those he knew and even those he'd never met before. Gavin believed in people and always wanted them to be happy. He gave of himself and would go without, in order to give to someone else. His giving heart and his compassion for others has made a lifelong impact on those who were blessed enough to have known him.Gavin enjoyed many activities, but inline hockey eventually became his passion. He attended Lewis-Palmer High School and was especially known for giving encouragement and support to anyone, not just his friends. Gavin's sense of humor and school spirit also made him very popular among his classmates. He graduated in 2013.Upon graduation, Gavin proudly joined the United States Army, completing boot camp in Fort Benning, Georgia. He served a deployment to Afghanistan and completed his commitment at Fort Hood, Texas. Upon an Honorable Discharge in 2016, Gavin moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, where he planned to study Entrepreneurial Business at Colorado State University.Gavin lived each day to the fullest. Heaven is forever filled with his laughter and his love. We take comfort in the knowledge that we will see him again in Glory.Gavin was absolutely adored by his immediate and large extended family. He is survived by his father, Steve Riker and step-mom, Lori Riker; his mother, Debora Coe and step-dad, Patrick Coe; eight brothers, Jason (Danielle) Riker, Andrew Riker, brother and best friend, Ethan Riker, James Blyth-Coe, Braden Coe, and Jordan, Tyler, and Ryan Ververs; a beloved sister, Emily Coe; a grandfather, Russell Riker; a grandmother, Margaret Coe; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.A Celebration of Gavin's Life will be held Saturday, October 8, 2016 at New Life Church, World Prayer Center, 11025 Voyager Parkway, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80921. A live music prelude will begin at 9:30AM. The service will begin promptly at 10:00AM. A reception with refreshments will immediately follow, 11:00AM-12:00PM.Gavin had an amazingly positive impact on the world and his passing has been felt by many. His spirit lives on in us, encouraging us to serve others and live life to the fullest.When you feel a gentle breeze, Gavin will be whispering, "Celebrate my life - remember me, smile, and know that I am Home."Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services3115 East Platte AvenueColorado Springs, , COUS 80909 Events Service Saturday, October 8, 2016 10:00AM - 11:00AM New Life Church World Prayer Center 11025 Voyager Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80921 Service Saturday, October 8, 2016 11:00AM - 12:00PM New Life Church World Prayer Center 11025 Voyager Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80921