Birth date: Mar 26, 1983 Death date: Aug 22, 2013
Aaron David Draper, born March 26, 1983 died Friday August 23, 2013. He is survived by his daughter, Ileana Draper, aged 5, his parents Delbert and Cynthia Draper, his sisters Sarah Springer and Lindsey Seybold, numerous aunts, u Read Obituary
Lia Cavallo lit a candle in memory of Aaron Draper
I knew Aaron from 2003 til the time of his passing... he lived with me during the final months of his struggle, and even stole my car during one of his lapses. I took him to meetings, visited him in the hospital, communicated with his family, and did everything I could in my power to help him. The pain he left me with has lasted for years.
When I drive around the city of Nashville, I still expect to see him walking, escaping, crying out for help.
Addiction is pain, and my heart will forever ache at the pain and struggle that I saw him deal with. I remember him wanting to go to school to be a drug counselor, and to help others. Speaking frankly about his real struggle is what he would've wanted.
If you are struggling with addiction, seek help, accept help.
I remember when you were wrapping up your Army career and poking fun at your non-regulation hair. I remember meeting you and Melissa that winter. I remember watching the 2005 Super Bowl with you at Patricia's house and how angry you were when the Seahawks lost to the Steelers. I remember your star "cape" and fishnets, Rock Star hoodie, our silly themed parties, Crunk Tuesdays. etc. And to show my age...I'll admit I remember the insane amount of MySpace drama that surrounded you and the ladies, Aaron Draper.
We lost touch after you left the Army. I remember hearing from you years later and learning of your marriage to Val and new family. I remember the two of you traveling to Nashville on a whim in 2010 and staying the night for my birthday. I had no idea that would be the last time I saw you, nor had I any idea how much your life had changed.
Our lives again played out separately and we lost touch (again). I next remember emailing you words of support and tough love last year and early into this one.
What bothers me most is my inability to accept the person in my photographs and memory is the person who is now gone. I was spoiled to know you when life was easy. I am spoiled to only have great, uncomplicated memories to reflect on. I'm so angry you are gone.
David you are no longer suffering you are in a place of peace and light. You were the jokester in high school and always had a smile that is what I will remember. My heart goes out to your daughter I know you loved her very much. I wish your life wasn't cut so short. RIP Draper
Aaron & Family We have known him since middle school, when My daughter Shemarah went to the same school. Just a week before got to see him and he gave me the biggest hug and I will never forget that Bear Hug. He had told me a story of when he was over at my house and he was going to leave my house to go some where, and I called his parents and got him into trouble....I didn't remember that. Aaron was a very Loving person, great personality! You will be missed so very much! Rest In Peace May God Comfort your family Love & Hugs Sherri Tucker
Aaron, I will never forget our 2,300 mile journey across the country together. We made it all the way to Boise in the heat of summer with no air before we thought to check the A.C. fuse. You introduced me to many of the people I consider to be my Washington family. I'll be there to honor your legacy tomorrow. Thank you for serving your country and protecting our freedom. You'll forever be in my heart and on my mind. I miss you already. Peace & Love Buddy!
To Aaron’s Family,
My very deepest condolences. I hope that you may find some comfort in knowing that a light as bright as the one that shown in Aaron cannot be simply snuffed out. He left a part of himself with each and every person’s life he touched. In that respect, Aaron will always be here.
Aaron,
Words fail me. All the words in the world wont bring you back, nor will the right words ease the pain. Regret fills my aching heart as I look over my last words with you in form of messages. You had asked me to hang out when I made it back home. I had said that I would. I’ll be there next month and figured that was fine, but sadly, we have run out of tomorrows. I will miss you forever. So long, and good night my dear friend.
Aaron, you will be missed by many. We thank you for your service to our country. We will be there in spirit tomorrow. Our love to you and your family. Rest in peace. Godspeed. Love, Aunt Karen and Uncle Jim, Amy and Mitch and Andrew
Aaron was truly amazing. We lost touch for several years, but in the last year reconnected and I looked forward to talking to him everyday- about everything and nothing all at once! He always made me laugh, always encouraged me to be true to myself, and had more room in his heart than anyone that I know.
I've known Aaron since the 8th grade. He was always the life of the life of the party and such a sweet persn. I wish so much. I know he is at peace, but I still wish. I hope he knows how much he is loved.
