Caleb Daniel Acheson

Caleb Daniel Acheson, 16, died May 3, 2012.

The son of Eric and Emily Leonard and Stephen Acheson, Caleb was born Jan. 26, 1996. He has four adoring brothers who will miss him greatly — Shane, Seth, Clinton and Brock. He was their leader, their protector, their friend and their example.

Caleb was born in Alaska and quickly developed a love for the great outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hiking, camping, hunting and whitewater rafting. He had no fear and was always looking for a new adventure. He liked baseball, soccer, swimming and cooking for his family. He loved to fly and aspired to be a pilot. He was a big fan of superheroes, but to his family he was the superhero.

He loved Boy Scouts and was an amazing Scout. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout at age 14 by organizing and conducting a life-saving bone marrow drive, even though he was very ill and in the hospital at the time.

He was working as a Den Chief and loved helping younger Scouts learn.

Caleb battled his illness for 12 years, yet was always optimistic, smiling and cheerful. He was amazing at applying humor and wit in the face of challenges and adversity. He always kept us laughing and never gave up the fight. He was a strong, mighty young man in a very weak and frail body. He endured an incredible amount of pain and suffering with no complaints. He was sweet, gentle, and considerate. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and showed extraordinary faith in his heavenly father’s plan.

“He set an example of a Christ-like life for everyone around him with his courage, strength and love for all,” his family wrote. “We have been so blessed to have Caleb in our lives, and we are very thankful for the 16 years we were privileged to have with him. He was a shining light who inspired everyone around him to be better. We want everyone to remember him and that he really lived.”

A memorial service for Caleb is at 10 a.m., May 12 at the St. Leon Chapel in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Scout uniforms are encouraged. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Caleb Acheson Memorial Fund at Beehive Credit Union. The family also would love to receive letters telling what you remember and loved about Caleb. Send letters to P.O. Box 50014, Idaho Falls, Idaho, 83405 or email eleonarde@yahoo.com.