Braiden Doyle Voss

Every once in a while you meet a magical soul. And you know it. Because you can feel it. Right away. In your whole being. Because that magical soul radiates something special. The most beautiful blend of love, joy, appreciation, respect, humility, gratitude, connection, authenticity and genuineness that creates an energy you can’t deny. Braiden Voss is one of those magical souls. Born on June 23, 2002 to Joel and Marie Voss, Braiden arrived on this earth as a bundle of energy. Walking and talking seemingly since birth, he was born ready for all the adventures the world had to offer. 19 months later Braiden’s sister Kora was born. A sister he lived in awe of. His whole life. A best friend who could make him belly laugh like no other human. A sister who gives him unconditional love all of his days. Many amazing home videos would follow and capture them having contests, jumping down a flight of stairs onto pillow forts, listening to music, singing and praying. These greatest of friends tied by the most special of bonds. At a young age Braiden was doing things like staring out the car window saying “I’m just checking out the beauty of God's creation.” You won’t find someone who appreciates the grandness and the intricacies of nature more. That is just Braiden. He would take an early interest in dirt biking. He spent tons of time at the track with his father and his family. Even though his helmet was possibly as big as he was, he always let it rip and enjoyed every second. That is just Braiden. For elementary school, he attended his beloved Children’s House Montessori School in Traverse City, where he learned so many things, including the immense value of curiosity and intentional living. Things that would define Braiden’s journey. He attended West Middle School and West High School before packing up and heading to The Miller School of Albermarle in Virginia, and then on to Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina. Braiden’s huge passion for education shone through his endeavors and he thoughtfully shared his insights with the world around him. Along the way he ran cross country, played basketball, football, baseball and established lifelong friends, and so many important guides and mentors. Outside of school you would often find him adventuring. Trips, camping, hiking, exploring, discovering, and truly appreciating every moment along the way. That is just Braiden. The cycling community is another area Braiden made his mark and where he found a true passion. Hard work, perseverance, commitment, grit, and the pure thrill he found through cycling made it the perfect fit for Braiden. And he always did it all with that huge Braiden smile. Hagerty Cycling, MSA Endurance, Hot Tubes, Belmont Abbey Cycling. Teams he positively impacted on his journey. He loved any bike ride. Anywhere. With anyone. Always out to give his personal best and always the first to congratulate you on your effort. With all his success, he was just grateful for the joys of simply sharing a ride with you. You want to know who Braiden is? Ask his parents. Ask his sister. Ask his family. Ask his friends. Ask his teammates. Ask his teachers. Ask anyone who has ever encountered him. They will unequivocally tell you the story of that magical soul that has made a unique and lasting impact on them and the world. A one in a trillion son, brother, family member, teammate and friend. A journey cut far too short. He will be around. You will see him. You will feel him. Maybe it’s a majestic eagle soaring above, or a hummingbird outside your window, a storm that lights up the entire sky, a breeze at the top of that big hill on your ride. He’s there. Encouraging you to go out and crush life. To enjoy the ride, to smile at challenges, to live your dreams. To be in touch with all the complexities of the human spirit. Reminding you to extend a helping hand to those around you in need. To truly listen to others. To approach life with gratitude and humility. Urging you to search for the good. To look for the signs of light in this universe that can sometimes seem dark. Like he always did. That is just Braiden. May Grace and Peace be with you and yours during this time. Braiden is survived by a large loving family and a vast community of those he touched around the world. A celebration of life will be held in his honor at The Children’s House Montessori School in Traverse City at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, August 17. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to The Braiden Voss Memorial Fund, which will benefit his passion of education and cycling initiatives. You can donate by visiting The Children's House Giving Page and selecting Braiden Voss Memorial Fund. To Give: https://gws.inresonance.com/traversechildrenshouse/

Braiden Doyle Voss

June 23, 2002 - August 7, 2021