Branden Alexander Ross Roden

Obituary "If ever there is a tomorrow when we are not together, there is something you must always remember: You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart, I'll always be with you." "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" Branden succumbed to a long illness on November 18th, 2016. He was welcomed home by many who went before him. He is survived by his mother, Lynn Roden; grandparents, Ross and Loreen Roden; aunts, uncles, cousins, many friends and family. Branden was born October 16, 1990 in Tacoma, Washington. It was apparent at birth that Branden was special, but no one knew how much. Branden was a healer and maybe that is why his earthly body struggled so much. There wasn't a person who met Branden who wasn't touched by him. He had a strength, determination and will that was unmatched by anyone else. Everyone who knew Branden felt better for it. His courage, spirit and zest for life that could be seen and felt by all those around him. Branden was a miracle. He always survived and beat the odds and fought until the end. Throughout his twenty-six years, Branden struggled with health issues and fought countless battles that slowly destroyed his body but never once did they destroy his spirit. And yes, Branden was special. He was special in ways people never fully realized. Branden changed people. He made them better. He made them want to be better. And we were. We are. He will live on because people knew him, because he touched lives, just being himself, living and loving. If you knew Branden you loved him. If you knew him you were blessed. And as we grieve the loss of his earthly body, his soul is flying free and surely he is singing a song, just as happy as he can be. Branden wouldn't want anyone to be sad. He would ask "What's wrong?" Hear him call out "Dance!" "Sing!" His voice is strong now, he smiles and tells us all "Hakuna Matata!" A Viewing will be on Wednesday, November 23rd from 10:00am until 5:00pm followed by a Rosary at 7:00pm at Gaffney Funeral Home in Tacoma, Washington. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 25, 2016 at 9:00am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, in Tacoma, Washington followed by the Committal at Calvary Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.