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
FILE - Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy speaks during a news conference at the Department of Transportation in Washington, Dec. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

Colorado’s Federal Funds Slashed by $24M Due to Unlawful CDL Issuances

DENVER (AP) — On Monday, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a…
Trish Stratus at 50: WWE legend strips down for racy FHM shoot

WWE Icon Trish Stratus Stuns in Bold FHM Photo Shoot at 50

Celebrated WWE icon Trish Stratus recently celebrated her 50th birthday with a…
Aetna to cover IVF treatments for same-sex couples in national settlement

Aetna Announces National Settlement to Include IVF Coverage for Same-Sex Couples

Mara Berton and June Higginbotham, like many young women, dreamed of starting…
Harvey, Illinois community rallies around Pacific Submarine sub shop off 159th Street after break-in forces them to close

Harvey Community Unites to Support Beloved Pacific Submarine Shop After Devastating Break-In on 159th Street

In the heart of Harvey, Illinois, a cherished sandwich shop has been…
'Spiked' 60 Minutes segment on Trump deportations explodes online

Unseen 60 Minutes Segment on Trump Deportations Sparks Viral Outrage

A last-minute decision led to the removal of a 60 Minutes segment…
Outrage over dog found shot, tied to Jacksonville tree: 'They deserve to sit in a jail cell and rot'

Justice Demanded: Jacksonville Community Outraged Over Heartbreaking Dog Shooting Incident

Valor, a pit bull terrier with blue and white markings, was discovered…
Donna West sits with her grandson Paul Quirk as they speak to a reporter, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Marietta, Ga. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

An In-Depth Examination of America’s Aging Baby Boomer Generation

In 2026, the pioneering baby boomers—once the youthful force that reshaped American…
FILE - Wind turbines operate at Vineyard Wind 1 offshore wind farm off the coast of Massachusetts, July 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

East Coast Wind Projects Halted by Trump Administration

WASHINGTON (AP) — On Monday, the Trump administration announced a halt to…