Garret James Bethke

Submitted by: Deb Noethe
Born: 1986
Died: 2014
My Tribute: My beautiful 28 year son died of an heroin overdose on October 28, 2014. This is the most devastating experience of our lives. He was my youngest child and I still think that this is all just a bad dream.

Garret had just completed another rehab program in October. He had a new job to start and was looking forward to moving forward with his life. Until the relapse. I will never really know what happened those hours or days before his death. . Do we ever know why?

Garret loved music and art .He was a talented artist and musician. . His gift of love for every human being and his love of nature was incredible. He never judged anyone and taught me so much in his short life.

His 10 year struggle with this disease has been the most heartbreaking thing I have witnessed. His pain and struggle is now over. He is at peace and is finally happy and joyful forever now.

Garret did not die in vain. We have started a foundation to try and help others struggling. That’s what he would have wanted.
The garretbethkefoundation.org. We need to talk about this disease. I’m sick of the stigma and guilt and shame,. Enough! The heroin addiction in this country is an epidemic. Everywhere. Your town too. No one is left out. Awareness of what’s going on is essential.

I love and miss you my beautiful boy more than there are words. Peace and love to you always my son.

Your loving Mom xoxoxo