Obituary of David Ethan Klancnik

–David Ethan Klancnik, 19 months, passed away peacefully at home in Arlington, Virginia on January 29, 2014, surrounded by his loving parents, Gordon and Michelle, and his wonderful sisters, Sara and Amelia. Ethan, despite struggling with Tay-Sachs from birth, was a boy made out of love and laughter. Arriving June 12, 2012 with sparkling blue eyes and cornsilk hair, he was born into a family that adored him. He was Michelle’s sweet baby, Gordon’s only son, Sara and Amelia’s little doll. At four months Ethan’s unique gift emerged. His little baby body would produce the heartiest belly laughs we had ever heard. Ethan’s rolling giggles pulled everyone into his world of delight. Free from the weight of his body, Ethan will live the way that we remember him, in ethereal gazes, during quiet moments, and through unpredictable outbursts of joy. Long may that joy live, and long may we remember Ethan’s unforgettable laugh. Ethan, we will always love you! Memorial services will be held at St. Columba’s Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. on February 15, 2014 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, please donate to TaySachs Awareness and Prevention Organization (www.tsapo.org), a nonprofit founded by the Klancniks to help families affected by Tay-Sachs.