Simon's Obituary

 The last few days have been a complete whirlwind.  We continue to be overwhelmed by the kind words of so many who care for us.  As Ryan and I are settling into our new reality, our hearts are filled with an extreme and unfathomable love and heartache for our son.  We were so blessed with our time with Simon and know that each and every thing that has happened has been an act of God, everything from Simon being given to us, the time he had in the womb, his loss before birth and the birth itself.  Our hearts hurt but are filled with an unbelievable love and gratitude for being able to walk this journey with each other and with our Savior.  I look forward to sharing some of the moments that we shared with Simon, but at this time, my heart hurts too much to do so.

Ryan and I spent part of yesterday doing something no parents should have to do.  We wrote our sweet Simon's obituary, something we know we, as his parents, needed to do.  It was heartbreaking to stare at the computer screen and not know what to write, but when we did finally start writing it felt so good to honor his precious, God-given life.

Simon Leo Carstensen

Simon Leo Carstensen was born February 7, 2014, into the arms of the Lord.  Simon fought to survive 40 weeks of pregnancy before leaving his earthly body.  During his time, Simon and his family were able to create many beautiful memories including building Legos with Daddy, eating a lot of Dairy Queen with Mommy, going to car shows, going to a waterpark with his siblings and riding in Grandpa’s combine.  Simon touched many lives in his short time on earth.  

Left to remember Simon’s precious life are his parents, Ryan and Charity Carstensen, big brother, Tanner and big sister, Leah.  Simon’s grandparents are Joel and Peggy Carstensen and Kevin and Shirley Gute.  Simon is also survived by great-grandparents Rosalie Trimble, Ray and Virginia Carstensen, and Olin and Vera Kimball and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who loved him dearly.  Simon was greeted in heaven by his great-grandfather, Leo Trimble, and cousin, Brianna Hilton.  

Memorials may be sent to the family at PO Box 335, Roland, Iowa 50236.  Memorials will be given in Simon’s name to the SHINE perinatal palliative care program and other organizations that have assisted our family through enjoying the time we had with Simon and healing our hearts after our loss.