Tremendously  heartbroken to learn about Kai…very fond memories of spending time with you all, sledding in the backyard at Incline Village in the Winter and fireworks on the beach at Lake Tahoe in the Summer, together with Suzie’s family and our girls in those early years.  Wish we could have known Kai better as a grown young man in Boulder but can see he generated great pride and joy for you in his brief time here which you will always have.

With loving thoughts  -

Chris, Amy, Akela, Malia, Kiana Yuhl

I love seeing all these beautiful photos of Kai and the whole Raydon fam. I remember when Brielle took care of Sabrina and Kai when they were little and they were even more of a handful then “Galen” and Isabel, Ha Ha.  Camp Kai is a memory too.  I love you very much.

Such unbearable sadness to hear about Kai. We have so many memories from Incline Village and sweet Kai in the way back while carpooling to Lake Tahoe School and Diamond Peak. Bryan, Janet and Sabrina, our hearts are breaking with you. 
Much love and strength, Steve, Nora, Macallan, Grace and Eva Boyle

Kai. You were such a really wonderful, smart, caring, accomplished, fun, adventurous young man who I was so fortunate to witness from the very first day of Pre K through becoming the incredible young man you were. 
My heart breaks for your mom, your dad and your beautiful sister Sabrina. The love they had for you was - still is and always will be - evident in every single hour of every single day. 
Wherever you may now be, soar high, spread love and joy, and watch over your beautiful, beautiful family. 

Dillon Beach, Sierra Buttes, Capitola, Half Moon Bay, Barcelona, Amsterdam, BottleRock, poker nights…so many, many happy memories of my own baby growing up in Tahoe are so entwined with Sabrina & Kai.  My memories of Kai was a boy who was kind, thoughtful, intelligent, gorgeous — but most of all — always, always curious about the world. My heart breaks for you losing your baby boy. No parent deserves such a tragedy.  I hope you can find peace  in all the memories you created for your kids  and the most amazing life you gave your son.  We love you, Raydons - Lainey & Jesse xoxo

Dear Janet, Bryan and Sabrina
I am just writing to say how truly sorry I was to hear that Kai passed. I never had the pleasure of meeting him. He seemed a wonderful  loving soul. I want to let you know I am sending prayers and thoughts to you during this toughest of times. I hope you are holding each other close. Sending love to you all and know if there is ever anything I can do in the future I am here.
Much Love

Sue Jenkins 

Dearest Bryan and Janet, 
We are heartbroken to hear of the loss of such a beautiful and brilliant soul. We remember Kai as the cutest little boy - carefree, kind, bright with an ever present sparkle in his eye running around on Stinson beach with our boys, like it was just the other day. We love you and your family so much, and cry with you. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers remain with you and Sabrina. 
❤️Vinita, Bryan, Sean, Andrew and Christian 

Kai will live always in my heart and I treasure the many special moments our families and our children have shared through the years. The spark, joy, adventure and slight mischievousness that has always marked our times together is so dear and special. It’s a lot of what life is about. I’ve always loved Kai’s wonderful energy, humor, and sense of fun. It came honestly from his amazing parents and Sabrina has it, too. J&B, you’ve given your kids the most full and loving experiences of any parents I know. 20 years is not long enough and Kai is and will always be loved and missed. I think of you all daily and send you my love. 

A child and friend so loved and admired by his friends and family. Kai had a profound zest for knowledge beyond his years. I was always struck by his quest to seek and learn more. If anyone can find a way to make an impact from another dimension, it will be Kai. And I hope he succeeds. To B, J and S, we are all here to surround the deep hole in your heart so it doesn’t overwhelm you—lean in to the love and support. We’ve got you 

Bryan, Janet, and Sabrina...  Our hearts are broken by the passing of Kai.  Please know that we are keeping you all in our thoughts.  Sean, Kate, Sawyer, Jack and Dean

Growing up with Kai as one of my childhood best friends, I learned the importance of doing things simply for the purpose of laughing. He thought my weirdness was cool and I thought his pranks were hilarious and I was so happy to be included in his shenanigans when we were together. The world would be a better place if more people had the privilege to meet Kai. He radiated joy and kindness constantly. He was one of those people who I thought I had forever to be friends with even if we didn’t talk for years, I just always thought we would find a way to be great friends again. I wish we hadn’t run out of time. We lost you too soon buddy, you were one of the best ones.

My apologies for your loss to the entire Raydon clan.  Kai was a great kid.  

June 2021 in Crystal Bay - from preschool to college 

I only got to know Kai this past year, but his trust in people and the world made it feel like far longer. Albeit a man of few words, he made each one count. Kai was the most wonderful listener. Some of my favorite conversations we had, occurred in the most random & chaotic places. Yet, it seemed like we were the only ones there. He truly had a way of making people feel seen and heard. We didn’t get to hang out all that much, but you didn’t need to see Kai all the time in order for him to make you feel like you did. My heart goes out to his close friends, family, and his girlfriend. 

Wont be the same without you. In the short time that I knew you, your words made a significant impact on my life, more than a few times. Your legacy is the love you had for your family, and the purity in your heart. So genuine. So so sorry. 

My greatest memories of Kai alway began with how he could light up a room and make everyone laugh. Many of us in High School knew Kai as the “class clown” and many of us looked forward to seeing and hearing what joke Kai had in store. Kai also showed a caring side to many individuals. Although I wasn’t very close with Kai he took time to listen to me and struggles I faced. He definitely made high school more bearable for me and others. 
To the Raydon family, thank you for the way you raised and cared your son and brother. He was a light to everyone who got the chance to speak to him. Thank you for sharing him with us. Forever grateful. <3

Janet, Bryan, Sabrina & family,
My heart aches for you over the loss of your dear Kai.  Please know so many of us are praying for your strength & courage navigating life forward along with peace, in time, to your hearts & souls.  I remember his beautiful face photographing him at LTS and know he was as beautiful inside as out as are all of you.  Know his spirit will be with you always. 
With much love, 
Jenn Ornburg & family 

So sorry for your loss. Kai was somebody that I could always go talk to whenever I wanted to smile. Whether we were pondering deep philosophical thoughts or talking about rap music my brain was always stimulated when I was with Kai, and my heart was too. He was always there for me whenever I needed him and I am so lucky to have had him as my friend. Love you Kai! 

Kai… your passing was so sudden and saddens me deeply. I’m sitting in your room thinking about you and all the memories we have together. Your passing devastates me, but it has  showed me just how much I am capable of feeling and that takes a special person to do so. I am forever grateful for you. Till we meet again Kai❤️

We will never forget the rooftop hangs and vondelpark rides with you. ❤️

Janet and Bryan,
John and I extend our deepest condolences to you both, your beautiful daughter, Sabrina, and your entire family. Words can not express how sorry we are to hear about your loss of Kai. Even as a young boy in Lake Tahoe we remember how sweet and kind he was - and those beautiful eyes and smile! We extend our love and prayers. Rest Easy Kai. 

Kai, 
In the time that I’ve known you it was so clear and evident as to how incredible of a person you were. Your laugh and smile would always light up the room and were one of the most welcoming people I’ve ever met. Truly a peaceful and beautiful person. Thank you for the love you gave to Emma and the legacy you leave. You’ll live on forever and ever in our hearts. All my love to Kai’s family and everyone who was lucky enough to know and love Kai Raydon.

Kai was a great kid… it’s hard to believe this happened. I’m so sorry for your loss

Kai…you were one of the most kind, caring, and humble people I’ve ever had the privilege of calling a friend and a brother.  The times that we spent together will live in my memory for the rest of my life…weather it was  playing smash bros in your room, hanging out around the house, going on hikes  or staying up late watching conspiracy videos in your room. You always had your door open for me and anyone else who needed a friend. You were never a man of many words, but you didn’t need to be we always knew how much you cared about your friends and family.  I’m eternally great-full to have been able to call you my brother…. LLCK 🐍❤️

Dear Bryan and Janet,
My heart has been heavy since I heard the news of your son.  I have not stopped thinking of you or praying for you.  I am so deeply sorry. He was a beautiful combination of both of you. It sounds like he lived a full and abundant life for his short years.  May we all be reminded to never stop living with such passion and zest for adventure.  Thinking of you both as you grieve your son so loved❤️

Living with Kai this past year meant that a good time was always just a few doors away. The music was loud, the laughs were endless and the smiles were plentiful. At the center of it all was none other than Kai himself.  

Life without Kai surely won’t have the same feeling, but the good times we shared will linger on in my mind forever… 

Thank you for those good times brother. Til we meet again ❤️


my dear brother and very best friend. i love you and i miss you. the joy you brought to my life is immeasurable. the amount i have learned from you and laughed with you and loved you will be unmatched. you made me feel safe and goofy and i could always be the most authentic version of myself with you. i will miss your jostling and the visits you and emma would pay me at work. our monthly sibling mess around and traveling the world with you. your brilliance and light is something i aspire to carry with me everyday. 
to know you was to love you and to be your big sister is the best thing i’ve ever had the pleasure of doing. 
i love you and i miss you 🤍

Our hearts are breaking for you guys. Words just can't encompass how we hurt for you at this time. Even though you weren't in the "hood" anymore, we always kept tabs on the family adventures. So glad you were able to spend precious time together before he left. We are praying for your strength through this tough time and send you our love.


Smart, passionate, and curious, but most of all, humble. 

I remember this day like yesterday. Who can forget a sunny afternoon in Boulder spent hanging out on the porch with your best pals?

The memories will never fade. 







Brian and Janet, no parents should have to lose a child.   I have been thinking and praying for you both ever since I first heard the news.  While words may never ease your pain, I hope that this poem brings some semblance of comfort.
  "I thought of you would love today, and that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. Now all I have are memories, and this picture in a frame. My memories are my keepsake from which I will never part.  God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart."


Kai was truly one of a kind. It is one thing for someone to be so stoic and full of knowledge, but it’s another thing for them to show the compassion and understanding that Kai did. He never waited to start speaking, but rather listened to every word you had to say and spoke with you as an equal, you really felt heard when speaking with him. He was taken too soon, but no part of him has left us. His energy lives on, his soul runs free, and his essence shall forever remain within his family, phi psi, and the world to come. 

Kai was an extraordinary young man who was a blessing to have known. He was wise beyond his years and could always bring a smile to your face. When we met, I thought he was the coolest guy ever, I wanted to be just like him. Kai has influenced my life in so many ways and I wouldn’t be the man I am today if I had not met Kai. My deepest condolences for your loss.

Kai was a friend all people strive to have in their life at least once. He was someone who was loved, kind, caring, and most importantly someone who was able to bring a smile on anyone’s face. He will forever be in my friends along with my own thoughts for the rest of our lives and we treasure the time we were able to spend with him. Always and forever. 

Late night cruise in Reno. Kai wanted to stop for a minute and check out the lights.

It was truly amazing getting to know Kai over the past two years. I’m lucky enough to have spent just about every weekend (and weekday this past year) up all night with Kai talking about life. We spent most of those precious hours together dancing and laughing. Always. Kai’s laugh was contagious. For the past week i’ve heard his beautiful laugh over and over in my head. I will never forget our time together and am sending so much love to the Raydon family. Live Ever Die Never. 


From a random face, to lifelong family. In just a short 3 months we had the pleasure of growing with someone whose presence was undeniably positive, motivational, and diffusive. From the blanket you wrapped around each of our backs, to the physique we all strived for, and to the nights stayed up way too late with you. I know you’ll be with us everyday. Love you brother. Ledn.

Kai was an absolute genuine man, that is somewhat rare in todays world. He stood for what was right and always kept a level head, his memory and presence will be missed  

Kai was truly one of a kind. One of the only kids I know who truly wanted to best for everyone. I take cold showers everyday and do breathing exercises everyday because and for him. He will ALWAYS be in my thoughts no matter what❤️❤️❤️

On behalf of the officers of the Executive Council, we extend our sincerest condolences on the tragic loss of Kai. From what we have read and learned about him, Kai was a remarkable young man with adventurous spirit who lit up every room he entered. Members like Kai make our organization and everyone around them better.  We are praying all who feel his loss find comfort in his memory. 

Christopher M. Wheeler
National Secretary of the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with you. Hope you find comfort in all the beautiful memories you created together. 

Carol, Chris & Anna McEntee
(Will’s family)

The young boy who brought his much needed young man energy into my home. Always thinking, observing and ready to adventure. A wonderful family that let him live life, supported him and showed him the world. Our pain and sorrow  is that much more intense because of our love for Kai, Bryan, Janet and Sabrina. Kai was, and is now, surrounded by love. A speedy and safe journey onward Kai.

On behalf of the Phi Kappa Psi National Fraternity, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Kai. He was loved within his chapter. Your family and friends are in our prayers as you celebrate his amazing life. 

Ron Ransom
Executive Director

My dearest son, my beautiful boy,
I truly never imagined that I would have to say goodbye to you so soon.  It wasn’t the plan. It wasn’t what we talked about.  Words cannot adequately express how deeply I loved, admired and respected you. I cherish the time we had together and although we maximized living an extraordinary life together, it was not nearly enough.  I feel like you and I shared a special bond… that we were connected souls through our curiosity, discipline, quest for self-improvement, seriousness and our mischievous sense of humor.  We both loved animals, nature, funky foods, adventures, new things but also scaring ourselves, pushing our limits and feats of strength… I knew that you were a much better version of me and hoped that your amazing discipline with fitness, diet, knowledge, meditation, etc. would keep you safe.  I was wrong.
In Mexico last week, I experienced the best you… happy, healthy, positive and vibrant..  We talked about the future and your love for Emma and your boys.  Your future was as endless, bright and limitless as what you deserved to achieve.  
I am hoping that somehow you can see the impact that you had on this world and how deeply you were loved and respected.  Maybe you were a star destined to burn with so much brilliance and intensity as to illuminate the world and those around you but not to last.  
You were mature beyond your years, compassionate, loving, curious and extraordinarily gifted in every imaginable way. I cannot tell you enough how much I love you, how much I will miss you and how deeply I hurt now that you are gone.  Last week your last gift was to give me your “squeeze-squeeze” hug, emptying my lungs and swirling me around with your great strength.  I am grateful and proud to have been your father.  You are forever my boy and without you, nothing will ever be the same. With undying and undiminished gratitude, I lay you to rest.  Love, Dad

Mexico last week.  One of my favorite memories and photos.  God I miss him.

Italy -- Isle of Capris.  Love this kid.  This was "his favorite trip" which is saying a lot for somebody as well-traveled as this boy.

Bitterballen during his year living in Amsterdam.  Kai was always up for some new and strange foods.

Kai $$$.   Clowning after we sold the trailer...

Safety First by the boi at Chedraui Market in Cabo. He thought it was hilarious.

The jostle.. a Kai Raydon signature move.

Celebrating the one and only Buffs victory last year for Family Weekend.  I just don't know if I have the courage to attend this year.

Another Mexico memory... so grateful I could be there to see my boy at his absolute best.

Right before the great-tip-over.  Kai was goofing off and tipping over my side-by-side just over a week ago.  So full of life, giggles, optimism. 

King of the Rubiks Cube.  An intellect like nobody I have ever met.

Thank you Buck for bringing out the best in my boy.

Sending our love and sympathies to the family- David and Zachary Thomson (Connor's family)

OBITUARIO

Kai Anton Raydon

17 marzo, 2003 – 27 julio, 2023

Crist Mortuary & Cremation and Mountain View Memorial Park

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