Colton Herneshuhta

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Colton James Herneshuhta in Thunder Bay, Ontario on January 1st, 2021 at the age of 21 years old.

Colton will be forever missed by his loving mother Laura Bushby, and his brother, Daniel Herneshuhta, who would bend over backwards to do anything that they could to help Colton. Colton will also be missed by his Grandmother Mirjam Koski who was always there to provide love, safety and security to Colton without hesitation, as well as his Uncle Rod Kuzma, who Colton was very fond of, and much like his brothers, looked up to Rod as a role model. Finally, Colton will be missed by his Uncle Mark, Aunt Suzzie, his extended family throughout North America and his many friends who are too numerous to even begin to name.

As a child, Colton was quiet, curious and adventurous. He was a very hands on kid, who enjoyed playing with anything that he could find. Colton’s empathy, emotional awareness, and sensitivity to the feelings and needs of those around him endeared others to him and allowed him to make many special friendships throughout his childhood and adolescence.

As Colton aged, he became more extroverted. His outgoing, fun loving demeanor, and constant antics always drew attention. He would often be found with a big goofy smile that he always wore from ear to ear. Colton’s smile is something that could light up a room, and is something that will be fondly remembered by his many friends and loved ones.

Colton had a kind heart for both people and animals. He had friends from every age and background. Often his many friendships and adventures made it hard to keep track of where he was or who he was with at any time. No matter where a new friendship or experience brought him, Colton’s energy and lovability was always apparent.

Colton grew up looking up to his older brothers Kyle and Daniel Herneshuhta. Colton knew he could always turn to them for advice, protection, and loving company, especially in times when he struggled. As Colton grew to the height of 6’5 it was only a matter of time before his older brothers had no choice but to look up to him as well.

The greatest struggle that Colton faced in his life was his battle with addiction. Despite his perseverance and strength in this fight, this was one battle that he unfortunately did not win. It is not this struggle that Colton would want to be defined by, rather he would want to be defined as the young man who we knew to be loveable, loving, empathetic, kind, and who just wanted to make everyone around him smile and feel welcome.

As a family who has now experienced the recent loss of both Colton and his brother Kyle to addiction, we encourage those of you who are in similar circumstances, to please keep fighting, look to whoever and wherever you can for help, and know that you do not have to go through this struggle alone. Colton deserved to live a good life, and so do you.

No services are planned at this time. A tree will be planted in memory of Colton next to his brother Kyle’s memorial tree.