Justin Tyler Honken, 21, was taken from his family and friends on July 30th, 2016 in a boating accident. He was born on the 30th of May in 1995 in Laramie, Wyoming to Douglas and Terri Honken. Justin attended school at Laramie High School where he graduated in May of 2013. He participated in football, basketball, and track and then joined the high school rodeo team his senior year. From there, he went to Northwest Community College in Powell, Wyoming where he was majoring in criminal justice and was an honor roll student. There he continued to live his dream of steer wrestling and moved on to the PRCA circuit.
Outside of school and rodeo, Justin loved to cook for his friends and be around family. There was always the biggest smile on his face and he would do anything to make people laugh. He was the most giving, considerate, hard-working and loving individual. He left lasting, positive impressions on everyone he met.
Justin is survived by his parents, Doug and Terri Honken, and sister Heather Honken; grandparents Bob and Sandy Honken, and George Grenier; along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, all whom loved him with all their hearts.
A Justin Honken Memorial scholarship has been established. Memorial contributions may be sent to Western States Bank, 3430 E. Grand Ave., Laramie, Wyoming, 82070.
Services will be held in Laramie, Wyoming on Sunday, August 14 at 1:00 p.m. at the Albany County Fairgrounds under the direction of Montgomery-Stryker Funeral Home.
Dear Doug, Terri & Heather. We are so sorry for your loss of Justin. Although, we didn't know Justin that well, we know that he had wonderful parents. Doug & Terri, we will never forget when you came to take care of Ralphie in our home. Justin must have had the same compassion shown by his parents. You are in our thoughts & prayers. Sincerely, Bonnie & Sam Chavez
Dear Doug and Terri, We continue to keep all of you in our prayers at the Abbey of St. Walburga. It is so hard to see a child go before us into eternity but it is not forever, we shall be them again and our hearts will rejoice once more. But the separation is so painful and we want you to know we carry you in our hearts and ask God to take care of Justin, a child of God.. With our love and prayer, Mother Maria-Michael and Sisters
My deepest sympathy, I was sorry to hear about your son. Heaven is a great place for cowboys!!-Susie Dunlap
Doug and Terri . . . My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I did not know Justin, but based on my encounters with you at the vet clinic, no doubt he was an exceptional young man. So sorry for your loss. Jacquelyn Walker
Doug and Terri- Although we didn't know Justin, we knew about him from our friends here in Laramie and how much he was thought of. We are so deeply saddened for your loss. Please know you are in our prayers everyday. God has gained a wonderful angel. Bob and Pam Whitbeck
Dear Honken Family, I was so saddened to read about your wonderful son. I just can not imagine what you are going through. I didn't know him but he sounded like such a western guy who loved rodeo, his horse, sports, family, friends and learning. I am so sorry for your loss. I used to talk to Bob in the pawn shop once in a while. I was in Bible Study with Sandy for many years. Praying for you and all the families involved who lost loved ones in this tragic accident.
So sorry for your loss of Jystin. Prayers to all of you. Debbie
Doug, Terri, and Heather, We are so very sorry to hear of your great loss. Justin grew up to be a wonderful young man. He will be missed greatly by many but his memory will stay in our hearts forever. God Bless you and your family through this difficult time.
May fond memories comfort you during this difficult period.
Doug, Terri and Heather, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you with the lose of Justin
Dear Doug, Terry and Heather, Jim and I were devastated to learn of Justin's fate. He is truly the greatest young man we ever met. He will be forever in our hearts. Your family raised a wonderful young man. Jim trusted him with anything he had. Anytime I asked him to help me with something his response was always "but of course"! Followed by his huge smile . When we first learned that the services would be in Laramie, we knew we would not be able attend. But now I now see why you wanted him to rest in his hometown surrounded by so many who koved him. He has touched so many people's lives in such a positive way. He will truly be missed. God has greater plans for him as it should be with somebody as great as Justin. Hold each other tightly. You will be forever in our thoughts and prayers. May God bring you peace. Jim and Chris Mitchell
So sorry for your loss, my heart is breaking for you. All the memories of Casey and Justin playing baseball and football and us rooting for them in the stands. No words can express how heartbroken I am for you, he will be greatly missed by all of us who had the opportunity to have our lives touched by him.
Dan and I were so very sorry to hear about Justin. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I thought of all of you on Saturday and how our world was rocked a week before. I so wanted to turn the clock back and make this all go away. I know you know how much I thought of Justin. He was my buddy, my "sparring partner," and the one I could always count on to help me--even if he was mad at me. Justin is how Becky and Mike Pearce describe him. He lit up the hallways at Laramie Junior High School with his huge grin and that twinkle in those mischievous eyes. Justin was "all boy," but he his mom made certain he arrived at school impeccably groomed, in the nicest, most appropriate clothes, and was clean as a pin! That says a lot about a jr high boy! His entire countenance showed how valued and loved he was my his parents and sister. Justin was a joy to teach. He was smart, fun, always eager to pitch in and help anyone in class, and was just an all-around good guy. This world is somehow just not as "good" without Justin right here with us. My heart breaks for Doug, Terri, and Heather. You will forever be in my heart and in my prayers. My deepest, sincerest condolences. One day this may all make sense.......one day.
Jan Mahlum ( Newfoundlands): You all have been in my prayers. I cried when they announced it in church and the young girl I have been taking to church gave me a big hug. Hugs to all of you. You will continue to be in my prayers!
Doug, Terri and family. Sam and I were so saddened to hear of your tragic loss. Heaven gained a beautiful soul. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sam and Sue Ward and family.
Doug, Terri, & Heather, Shane and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. We have memories of little Justin still in diapers coming out to the ranch with his dad, running around the clinic, and a few times when you bought bum calves for fair. You and your family are in our prayers. Janet & Shane Renneisen
Doug, Terri and Heather My heart just breaks for you, I can't even imagine the depth of your loss. Justin was in the surgery room when Doug and I were having a discussion about a dental and I used the quote, "You're killin' me Smalls" and he got the reference and Doug didn't. That smile and chuckle was welcome that morning and every time he visited the clinic. He will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences and I wish I could hug you all. You are in my prayers. Marilyn O.
Heather, You and Justin were the best students a substitute teacher could ask for. I am so sad to know that he will not be able to continue to make this world a better place with his great sense of humor, kindness and intelligence. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you try to find your way without your younger brother in your life. Love, Barb Burns
The Emanuelli's He lived his life as he saw fit, no words can bring him back, we hope in heaven he will meet his true savior and be happy
Doug and Terri, There are no words at a time like this. Please know that you are in my heart, thoughts and prayers. I wish I could be there to give you a hug. Mary Ann
If we could have had a son we would have wanted him to be exactly like Justin was. He was the most caring, friendly, compassionate gentle soul either of us have ever had the honor of knowing. As a student he was smart, funny, respectful and giving. In our classes and in the hallway Justin just permeated an aura of sunshine and made us smile - he made such an impact on those around him. The world is a darker place today, but heaven is beaming with his bright smile and warm heart. Our deepest sympathy to one of the most selfless, caring families we have ever known. With love and friendship, Mike and Becky Pearce
Doug, Terri and Heather, There are no words that can adequately express my deep sorrow and sympathy by the loss of your son Justin. While I never had the opportunity to meet Justin, I fondly remember bringing Max to a Vet appointment with Doug and seeing the clinic's front yard covered with LHS Plainsmen Football signs. When you came into the exam room, Doug, I smiled and asked "So you're a Laramie High Football fan?" The pride in your eyes and in your voice as we spoke briefly about your son was memorable. Please know that I am holding warm thoughts in my heart for you and your family during this very sad time.
Dear Honken Family, our deepest sympathy for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts remain with you. God bless, Mike and Debbie Busch
God bless and God be with you and your family now and always.
So sorry for the loss of ur son I did not know him my cousin from Utah did said he was a great guy may god bless u all as he is now watching over you god bless
Dear Doug, Terri and Heather. I wish I could wrap my arms around you all to make you feel the love that Laramie has for you. Your son was an amazing young man who clearly lived his life fully and happily; loved by many. Doug, you and Terri were there for countless friends as we had to say goodbyes to our animal families. You comforted us and cried with us. I hope that the love surrounding you now gives you even a small measure of the comfort and love you so selflessly gave to us. Our hearts are with you. Much love to you, Carol, Kent and Katie Becker
Our hearts are saddened by your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Doug, Terri and Heather words can not explain the sorrow in your loss of Justin. I remember when I worked for Doug the cute little boy running around the clinic always wanting to help out. My sincere condolences during the difficult time. My prayers are with you always. Tina Romero and Bret Humohrey
Our hearts have been so heavy since we heard the sad news about Justin. We first saw Justin when he was only about a week old when you came to our house to examine our little puppy that I had found. Then we saw Justin through the years at the clinic helping out in so many ways. He grew up to be such a fine young man. Please accept our deepest sympathy's and condolences. Eldona and Joe Gossman
Terri, Doug & Heather, We are so very sorry for your loss. The joy of watching Justin grow up can not be matched. He was always kind, considerate and made us smile! His smile was sunshine. Our community is grieving for the loss of this very special young man but also for you as a family that we love and care for. Please know you are in our hearts and prayers and we will be with you in spirit! Love, Karen Robertson, Doug Johnson & Belle!
I am so very sorry for your loss. Our sincerest thoughts, love and prayers go to you during this time. Mike & Dana Gapter
Doug, Terri, and Heather-My heart is broken at this shocking news. Greg, Phil, Isaac, and I send our sympathies and love. I can remember when Phil and Isaac would be with me at work at Mear's and Justin and Heather would come w/ Doug on a call. Justin was too shy to ever play! Although it will not do the slightest bit to ease your pain, perhaps the knowledge that "a life well lived is a life well loved" and knowing that Justin had the privilege of growing up in your incredibly loving family will someday bring you some comfort. Pat Hayward
Doug, Terri and Heather, we are so very sorry for your loss of sweet Justin. There are no words. I was blessed to watch Justin grow up in Laramie. Always so sweet, kind and helpful...and that smile. Our hearts break for you all. Justin was so loved by his family and friends and he will continue to be a light in the hearts of everyone. There is a sadness here in Laramie, so many heavy hearts. Doug and Terri are two of the most compassionate people we have ever been fortunate enough to know. Their love and kind hearts, they have comforted so many of us during our sad times. Know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers since the moment we learned of this tragedy. Sending you love and prayers, Michelle, Tony, Maizie and Scout
We are sending Prayers and support so sorry for your loss, Lynn and Ron Pantier
Doug and Terri, May you find as much peace as possible during this difficult time. We send our thought and prayers to you and your family. Clayleen and Mark Rivord
Our prayers are with you! So sorry!
Thinking of you all. Deryl and Sue Woirhaye
Our prayers go out to your family God Bless. Kenny and Patti curry
Our prayers go out to your family God Bless. Kenny and Patti Curry
Doug, Terry and Family.. All of our heart felt prayers are with you, heaven angels will be amazed at his laughter and smiles. Mike and Reggie Fluty
Dear Doug, Terri and Heather, Please accept our deepest sympathies. It was an incredible shock to see Justin's name in the Boomerang this morning. Carolyn and I will always remember how concerned and supportive he was when we had to have our dear horse Caesar "put down ." Beforehand he kept saying that Caesar was going to be OK, then after it was over, Justin sat on the steps of the clinic and cried with us. He must have been all of 8 years at the time. A dear and caring soul. Thank God for Justin's time with us all.
I will never forget the phone call on my daughter's cell phone late on evening when it was snowing like no other. It was Justin and another young man asking their friend to come and pull them out of a ditch. She went and got her dad and off they went. When asked "Son why didn't you call your dad, Justin's reply, All due respect sir, my dad will kick my a$$ for being out here." He pulled them out and went on his way. What a memory. Our hearts go out to your family with lots and prayers. Look to the good times, all the wonderful memories of a son that was an amazing young man. Lived life to the fullest with the biggest personality and smile. He will always be in your heart and never far from your dreams. Prayers for your family today, tomorrow and years to come.
Jim and I send the whole family our prayers. Our deepest sympathy to you. Heaven has a great cowboy in its arena!
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Prayers and hugs
I'm so sorry for your loss. Justin had a great smile...good kid.
Dear Honken Family, On behalf of the Al and Eleanor Roth family, please accept our sincere condolences. Sincerely, Jim Roth
Doug, Terri, and Heather- Our sincerest thoughts, love and prayers go to you during this time! We always thought Justin was one of the nicest kids around, even when he gave me a lot of grief during baseball! His sense of humor, his smile, and his kindness were treasures and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him! Love and Prayers, Cari, Darren, Tyler and Amanda Warren
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
Justin "Hoss" Honken is the first person I think about when I reflect on my memories from Northwest College. I first met Hoss in my criminal justice classes. He was that shy kid who sat in the back of the room but when class was over he was very immersed with friends and had that big famous smile he has. We became good friends at the beginning, but as the school year moved on we became closer and we eventually ended up living together for our last year. I've been there for him through his hard times, just like how he was here for me when I needed him the most. I always felt happy, secure and comfortable when I was around him. He had such an aura around him that was always bright and beautiful. I have countless memories with him and I wouldn't trade them in for the most gold in the world. Hoss was my best friend, my best roommate and my best brother. He will always have a place in my heart and I know that he will always be watching over me. I can't wait to see him again, but until then, fly high my friend and just because you're gone, it doesn't mean you won't still be here with us. I love you buddy, more than you know.
God bless Justin, and the entire Honken family..
With our deepest sympathy and all our love, we wish you find peace in the wonderful memories of your beautiful son and brother. The Riddle Family
Heather and Mr. And Mrs. Honken, I am so very sorry for you loss; there really aren't words but know that many prayers are being sent. Heather always spoke of Justin with a smile on her face. Lisa Berg
Doug and Terri, our hearts are broken and we can't quit thinking about you and your family. It is so hard when God chooses our children. Hold on to one another and we'll be praying He will comfort you like no other can. Know you will see your precious son again. .this is not the end!
My prayers and heart are forever with you and your family.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Justin is an amazing young man who will continue to watch over you all. May you all find peace and comfort knowing he is in a wonderful place and with you every day.
I thought of your family today as I visited my own son's grave also taken too soon. My heart aches for you. Please know that you are in my prayers and that I am thinking about you often as you travel down this long road.