Topeka, Kansas: Connor Bickford, who played soccer in his youth, passed away early on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
His family and loved ones are mourning the loss of someone who brought immense joy and light into their lives.
Highlights
- Connor Bickford, the son of Darwin Bickford and Deb Rueschhoff, passed away at the age of 26 due to an accident on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
- He met his wife, Grace Marie Horvat, in high school, and after being in a relationship for several years, they married on November 12, 2022.
- His elder brother, Jerad Lee Bickford, preceded him in death.
Connor Neal Bickford had many passions growing up, and his interests gradually evolved. During high school, he was interested in Spiderman, longboarding, soccer, and videography.
Similarly, he developed a love for science, YouTube chefs, and beer in college. His hobbies grew to include cooking, cold plunging, and Mario Kart. He was interested in cars and commercial driving with his brothers in the City of Olathe.
Unfortunately, he passed away untimely at the age of 26. He was a precious gift in this world who touched the lives of everyone around him with his infectious, goofball energy and joy.
Moreover, he was a constant source of sunshine, transforming ordinary moments into unforgettable performances.
Connor Bickford’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
Connor Bickford, the son of Darwin Bickford and Deb Rueschhoff, was born on February 27, 1998, in Topeka, Kansas. His parents raised him alongside his older brother, Jerad, and sister, Lauren.
His family, friends, and loved ones are undoubtedly grieving during this challenging time.
Connor met his wife, Grace Marie Horvat Bickford, in high school, and their friendship only deepened in their senior year. Their friendship evolved into a relationship, and those memorable final moments of high school became their first milestones together.
Grace surprised him with Goldendoodle, Dottie, in 2021, and the bond between Connor and Dottie was inseparable. They often went for a walk, snuggled, pup-cupped, and played a game of fetch.
After dating for several years, they married in Kansas City on November 12, 2022.
Unfortunately, he passed away tragically after an accident, leaving his family and community in deep mourning. Although the details of the accident aren’t fully available, its impact is profound.
Gracie faces not only the emotional devastation of losing Connor, but also the financial uncertainty that comes with such a sudden and tragic loss. She needs time to mourn, process, and figure out her next steps without the added burden of financial worry.
Horvat/Bickford family
Furthermore, Taylor Griffith, an elder sister of Grace, organized a GoFundMe fundraiser on her behalf to support the financial uncertainty that comes with such a sudden and tragic loss.
Connor’s grandfather, Clifford Bickford; brother, Jerad Lee Bickford; and grandparents, Day and Phyllis Rueschhoff, preceded him in death.
He also shared a close bond with his grandfather-in-law, Joseph ‘Joko’ Horvat, and grandparents-in-law MaryLee ‘Grammie’ and Lloyd Dale ‘PawPaw Kientzy, who passed away before him.
On the other hand, his wife, parents, sister, siblings-in-law, aunts and uncles, cousins, and countless friends survive him.
The Bickford family announced his celebration of life, followed by a funeral mass on November 27, 2024, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church. His burial was in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, where he was laid to rest with his brother.
Instead of flowers, they requested donations to The Baswewe – Connor Neal Bickford Memorial Scholarship Fund to honor his legacy.
Even though Connor’s time was far too short and sweet, those who knew him will never forget his generosity, love, and laughter.
May his family find comfort in abundant love and support during this challenging time. Rest In Peace, Connor Bickford.
Additional Information
- Connor Bickford was given the name Baswewe, which means “echo maker,” symbolized by the crane calmly conveying a message.
- His native background was his greatest passion, and he was honored to be named a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation in the summer of 2017.
