Please Help a Father Lay His Son to Rest

We’re asking for support for a grieving father who is facing the unimaginable loss of his son. As he works to lay his child to rest and begin picking up the pieces after this heartbreaking tragedy, any help can make a meaningful difference.

If you’re able to donate, share this fundraiser, or simply keep this family in your thoughts and prayers, it would mean more than words can express. Every contribution, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated during this incredibly difficult time.

If you ever met Chad Michael Baroody, chances are you walked away smiling. Chad left this world on July 17, 2026, but he also left behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and stories that will be shared for years to come.

Born on August 4, 1989, Chad was a proud Leo. Known for their big hearts, loyalty, and strong personalities, Leos are often remembered for bringing warmth into the lives of others—and Chad did exactly that. Chad lived with schizophrenia for most of his life, facing challenges that many people never saw. But his illness was only one part of his story. What truly defined Chad was his kindness, his gentle spirit, his faith, and his ability to find happiness in the simple things.

Chad loved life in his own unique way.

Shopping was not just a trip to the store—it was an adventure. Chad loved finding new clothes and showing them off. He could change outfits several times in a day, and each time he came out, he was ready for everyone to admire the newest look. We often joked that Chad had more wardrobe changes than a celebrity on a red carpet. He always wanted to look his best, and he reminded us that there was nothing wrong with a little extra style.

Chad also knew exactly what he liked when it came to food. His favorites were rotini, salad, lasagna, chocolate milk, and, of course, a good chocolate malted shake. Those shakes were special—they could brighten his day and put a smile on his face. If there is a restaurant in Heaven, we know Chad has already checked the menu and asked if the chocolate malts come in extra-large.

Bowling was one of Chad’s favorite activities. He loved going to the lanes, picking up the ball, and enjoying the moment. Whether it was a strike, a spare, or a ball that decided to take a trip straight into the gutter, Chad had fun. He reminded everyone that the best part of bowling was not the score—it was the laughter, the memories, and spending time enjoying life.

Chad loved taking long walks to the park. He enjoyed being outside, feeling the fresh air, and taking time to appreciate the world around him. He had a way of finding peace in moments that others might overlook.

Above all, Chad had a strong faith. His Bible was always close by, and reading it brought him comfort, strength, and hope. Through every challenge he faced, his faith remained an important part of who he was.

Chad’s favorite colors were blue, purple, and green—colors that fit him perfectly. Blue for his calm and caring nature, purple for his uniqueness and imagination, and green for the hope and life he carried inside him.

Those who knew Chad knew his heart. He was loving, caring, and innocent in the best way. He found joy in small things and taught those around him that happiness does not have to be complicated. Sometimes happiness is a favorite meal, a walk in the park, a good outfit, a bowling game, or a chocolate malt shared with someone you love.

We like to imagine Chad’s arrival in Heaven. We picture him walking through the gates, completely healed and free from every struggle. No more confusion. No more fear. No more battles with schizophrenia. Just peace, happiness, and the love of God surrounding him.

And knowing Chad, he probably found the bowling alley first, asked where the shopping center was, changed into a fresh outfit, grabbed a chocolate malt, and then found a quiet place to read his Bible. He would look around and say, “This place is pretty amazing.”

Chad will be deeply missed by everyone who loved him. We will miss his smile, his sense of humor, his love of clothes, his bowling adventures, his favorite foods, his quiet moments of faith, and all the little things that made him the wonderful person he was.

Thank you, Chad, for reminding us to enjoy the simple things, to laugh often, to be kind, and to never be afraid to be yourself.

Until we meet again, save us a lane at the bowling alley—and please leave some chocolate malts for the rest of us.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Chad.

Written with love by L.G. Becker.