Gabriel Thomas Wightman

Gabriel Thomas Wightman, 19, most precious and beloved son, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend spread his angel wings and rose into heaven on January 20th, 2024.

Gabe was born May 19th, 2004, a gift to Cristi and Ted. He was a sweet and fearless little boy who loved people and adventures and anything with wheels or computer components. He learned to “drive” at age 3 and could be seen drifting his little blue plastic Mustang which matched his dad’s big blue Mustang. Gabe participated in martial arts and earned his second degree black belt. In elementary school, Gabe won the Sunflower Award for being a friend who always made sure to include everyone. When he was in middle school, he built his own computer and seemed destined to change the world with his natural propensity for technology and helping people. In high school, Gabe’s love of music led him to spend hours helping out with and playing trombone in the Blue Valley Southwest band. After Gabe graduated from Blue Valley Southwest High School in 2022, he went on to study Computer Information Systems at Pittsburg State. His passion for music was strong and he was a proud member of the Pitt State Pride of the Plains marching band and the pep band. Gabe’s life was enriched by his tight knit friend groups and leaders at both Southwest and Pitt State.  

One of Gabe’s joys in life was being a Boy Scout. A big accomplishment for him was becomingan Eagle Scout just like his dad while with Troop 459.  He enjoyed the camaraderie at high adventure bases and camps with an outstanding group of young men and dads he had been with since Tiger Cubs.  Thunderhawks you know who you are. Gabe genuinely loved being outside and exploring. Many family trips also involved camping, climbing, sleeping in a hammock, cheering his dad on in the Jeep, swimming, kayaking, and looking for people to rescue.

Gabe was a wise old soul with a wicked smart intellect and a penchant for witty banter. He was incredibly kind and always had a genuine smile on his face.  He looked out for others and sought to leave places better than he found them.  Gabe never hesitated to help.  He was often the first one to pitch in and the last one to leave. He had a servant’s heart.  Gabe’s presence and spirit brought comfort and joy. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Gabe was preceded in death by Great Grandparents Vernon and Adelaide Schroeder, Great Grandparents Henry & Ruth Walz, Grandpa Norman Foster.  He is survived by his adoring parents Ted and Cristi Wightman, Grandma Carol Foster, Grandparents Darris & Roma McConkey, Aunts Darcie Reeson, Sarah Foster, and Michele Saxton.  Uncle Tyler Saxton. Nieces Adelaide Saxton and Paige Reeson.  Cousins Gage Miller, Cole Reeson, Benaiah Saxton and Daniel Saxton.

Gabe’s Celebration of Life will be held at Colonial Presbyterian Church (9500 Wornall Road, Kansas City MO, 64114) on Saturday, January 27th at 4pm.  Reception to follow celebration.   In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sugar Kittens Café & Cattery (cat rescue) in Liberty, Mo.  Gabe loved cats and his heart would be so happy to know that that he was helping to take care of kitties in need.