The family of Rubi Patricia Vergara, the 14-year-old victim in the Wisconsin school shooting, have spoken out at her funeral service. They speak out about their forgiveness of the killer and her family.
Videos by Wide Open Country
On December 16, Natalie 'Samantha' Rupnow, 15, opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School, where Vergara was one of the victims. After the shooting, Rupnow turned the gun on herself. Three had immediately died, with many others injured.
Vergara's funeral service was held on Saturday. Her uncle, Andy Remus, stepped up to speak of his niece's tragic passing. He shared a forgiving and deeply sympathetic statement.
After an introduction, he said that their coping mechanism for the tragedy is by "leaning into God." He then shared that the family likes to laugh, and taking a minute to breathe is helpful. "If this is truly a celebration of life, then let's do it," he said after confirming that it's okay to laugh and clap in the service.
He then goes on to spread forgiveness and understanding.
School Shooting Victim's Family Forgive Rupnow
"We hold no bitterness or unforgiveness towards 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow and her family. They lost a daughter too," he said. "Somehow, this precious child of God lost her way."
Remus also thanked the community for their efforts. "My family is nobody in this city, and we were treated with kindness and the most compassion you can ever imagine."
"They have flags at half-staff around this state because of this, so thank you," he added, choking on his words.
Vergara's uncle also spoke to the teachers. "Do not for one minute blame yourselves for anything that has happened here, my family releases you from any feelings of guilt and we encourage you to continue your faithful teaching of Christian values," he reassured.
The service was extremely emotional, although Remus tried his best to lighten the mood when he could. He began his speech with three of his favorite 'dad jokes' to set the tone.
Memories of Vergara were shared by all those who spoke at her service. She was a talented musician, although rather shy. "She never wanted to be in the spotlight... she would probably be horrified to see this many people in the church just for her," another said.
