Texas flood: After searching all week, family told that loved ones died
Share and Follow

KERR COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — Ryen Brake and his father Robert have spent every day since July 4 searching for Ryen’s grandparents and Robert’s parents – Robert Sr. and Joni.

On Wednesday, they learned Robert’s body had been found, and on Thursday, they learned Joni’s body was found.

“Since July 4, our family has lived in a world of heartbreak,” Ryen said. “But we’ve also lived in a world of kindness.”

Joni Brake, left, and Robert Brake, Sr., right, were at the HTR Campgrounds in Ingram when the floods arrived. (Courtesy: Ryen Brake)

In the midst of tragedy, we’ve witnessed the most powerful reminder: There is still beauty in this world. There is still goodness. There is still hope.

Brake family

Robert Sr. and Joni were camping at the HTR Campgrounds in Ingram when the floods hit. Robert described his parents as “patriots through and through.” Robert Sr. was in the Air Force and Joni was a base nurse.

“If you want to honor our parents/grandparents, please do this: Smile at someone today. Call a loved one. Walk up to a stranger and simply say hello. Kindness costs nothing – but its impact is immeasurable,” Ryen said.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
'Frozen,' 'The Simpsons' and more Christmas yule logs to stream on Disney+ this holiday season!

Stream Festive Yule Logs: ‘Frozen,’ ‘The Simpsons,’ and More on Disney+ This Holiday Season!

Looking to get into the festive spirit this Christmas? Whether you’re in…
Swimmer vanishes after possible shark encounter off California coast during group outing

Swimmer Disappears Following Suspected Shark Encounter on California Beach Outing

A woman who disappeared while swimming on Sunday is believed to have…
ICE releases AI video showing Santa Claus rounding up illegal migrants: 'NAUGHTY LIST!'

Controversial ICE AI Video Depicts Santa Claus Enforcing Immigration: A Shocking Twist on the ‘Naughty List

Ho, ho, it’s home for the holidays. The US Immigration and Customs…
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry say firing employees is 'inevitable' as Archewell charity undergoes restructuring

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Restructure Archewell Charity, Address Staff Changes

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have addressed recent staff changes within their…
Stars' goodbye to Mani including Liam, David Beckham and Paul Weller

Celebrities, including Liam Gallagher, David Beckham, and Paul Weller, Pay Tribute to Mani in Heartfelt Farewell

Today, a poignant farewell for Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, the iconic Stone Roses…
Mayor Brandon Johnson has 5 days to decide whether to veto city of Chicago budget that would legalize video game terminals

Mayor Brandon Johnson Faces Five-Day Deadline to Approve or Veto Chicago’s Budget Proposal Legalizing Video Game Terminals

The clock is ticking for Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who is faced…
Brown University custodian told security suspicious man was ‘casing’ building weeks before shooting: report

Brown University Custodian Alerted Security to Suspicious Activity Weeks Before Campus Shooting Incident

A custodian at Brown University reported witnessing the shooting suspect numerous times…
Jaguars earn spot in the playoffs following Monday Night Football results

Jaguars Clinch Playoff Berth After Monday Night Football Triumph

The Jacksonville Jaguars are riding high on a wave of success, having…