Ethan Chapin
Parents Jim (father) and Stacy Chapin (mother)
Ethan Chapin’s Family: Strength, Advocacy, and Remembrance
Ethan Chapin was the beloved son of Stacy and Jim Chapin, and the triplet brother to Hunter and Maizie. Following Ethan’s tragic death in November 2022, the Chapin family became a prominent voice in the search for justice and remembrance of their son.
Court Hearings and Family Presence
Unlike some other victims’ families, Stacy and Jim Chapin have made the thoughtful decision not to attend the majority of court proceedings related to the case against Bryan Kohberger. In interviews and public statements, they have explained that attending these hearings would be too painful for them and for their family, and most of all it wouldn’t change anything to better. Instead, they decided to focus on their other two children and make sure they spend more time with thir children, they have kept informed about the legal process from afar, focusing their energy on celebrating Ethan’s life and supporting their surviving children.
Trust Funds and Memorials
In honor of Ethan, the Chapin family established the “Ethan’s Smile” foundation and scholarship fund. This trust supports students in Skagit Valley, Washington, and reflects Ethan’s love for learning, athleticism, and community spirit. The family has also organized memorial events and fundraisers, including those centered around their tulip farm—an important family tradition—to celebrate Ethan’s life and legacy. The tulip fields have become a symbol of remembrance and hope, with proceeds from special tulip sales supporting the scholarship and other charitable causes.
Ethan’s Smile Foundation Website link
Ethan’s Smile Tuips Mix Shop link
Legacy
Through the establishment of Ethan’s Smile, and continued public engagement, the Chapin family honors Ethan’s memory and works to ensure that his life and the lives of the other victims are never forgotten. Their efforts stand as a testament to their resilience, love, and commitment to justice.
I recommend you watch this inspirational interview Stacy Chapin did over a year ago here Stacy Chapin: The Boy Who Wore Blue
Xana Kernodle
Parent: Jeff (father) Kernodle
Jeff Kernodle and Family: Honoring Xana Kernodle and Seeking Justice
Xana Kernodle was the treasured daughter of Jeff Kernodle and her mother, whose family roots are based in Arizona and Idaho. Following the tragic loss of Xana in November 2022, her father, Jeff Kernodle, became a steadfast advocate for his daughter and a visible presence in the ongoing pursuit of justice.
Court Hearings and Family Involvement
Jeff Kernodle has attended several court hearings in Latah County, Idaho, related to the murder case against Bryan Kohberger. His presence at these proceedings has been a testament to his commitment to Xana’s memory and to supporting the legal process. Jeff and other Kernodle family members have sometimes joined the hearings in person and, at times, participated virtually due to travel constraints or personal preference. Throughout the hearings—including initial appearances, status conferences, and pre-trial motions—Jeff has remained engaged with developments in the case.
Public Statements and Advocacy
Jeff Kernodle has spoken publicly on multiple occasions, sharing memories of Xana’s vibrant personality, her sense of humor, and her loving heart. He has openly expressed the pain of losing his daughter and called for privacy and respect for the families involved. In interviews and statements, Jeff has thanked law enforcement for their work and the community for the outpouring of support, while also voicing frustration over the slow pace of the legal process and the ongoing grief faced by the families.
Memorials and Remembrance
The Kernodle family, with Jeff’s leadership, has organized and participated in memorial services and events to celebrate Xana’s life. These gatherings have brought together friends, family, and community members to remember Xana’s energy and compassion. Jeff and his family have expressed their gratitude for the support, cards, and memorials sent from across the country.
Trusts and Charitable Efforts
While there is no widely publicized independent foundation or trust specifically established by the Kernodle family as of mid-2024, they have participated in joint remembrance efforts with the other victims’ families, including memorial scholarships and events at the University of Idaho. The Kernodle family has encouraged donations to funds supporting all four victims and contributed to causes reflecting Xana’s values.
About the Case
The murder case against Bryan Kohberger has been a lengthy and emotional process. Jeff Kernodle has closely followed the investigation and pre-trial proceedings, advocating for justice for Xana and the other victims. He continues to participate as much as possible and remains a vocal supporter of efforts that honor Xana’s memory.
Legacy
Jeff Kernodle’s enduring love for Xana and his dedication to seeking justice have inspired many. Through court attendance, public advocacy, and ongoing remembrance, he ensures Xana’s light continues to shine in her community and beyond.
Siblings: She is survived by her sister Jazzmin and brother Elija.
Parent: Cara Northington (mother)
Cara Northington: A Mother’s Grief, Love, and Advocacy for Xana Kernodle
Cara Northington is the mother of Xana Kernodle, one of the four University of Idaho students whose lives were tragically taken in November 2022. The loss of Xana has been devastating for Cara and her family, and she has spoken openly about her grief and the profound impact Xana’s passing has had on her life.
Court Hearings and Family Involvement
In the months following Xana’s death, Cara Northington has been involved in the ongoing legal process surrounding the case against Bryan Kohberger. Due to personal circumstances and the intense emotional toll, Cara has not attended every court hearing in person. She has, however, kept closely informed of legal developments and has sometimes participated or followed proceedings virtually. Cara has expressed both her gratitude for the investigation and her frustration with the slow pace and the pain of reliving the tragedy through each step of the legal process.
Public Statements and Advocacy
Cara Northington has made several public statements, both through media interviews and on social media, expressing her heartbreak and the deep void left by Xana’s absence. She has shared memories of Xana’s vibrant energy, kindness, and the special bond they shared as mother and daughter. Cara has also been candid about her struggles with grief and the challenges she has faced since the loss, including periods of overwhelming sadness. Despite her pain, Cara has called for continued support for the victims’ families and for justice to be served.
Memorials and Remembrance
Cara and her family have participated in various memorial services and remembrance events for Xana. Cara has thanked the community, friends, and strangers who have reached out with messages of support, flowers, and donations. These acts of kindness have provided comfort during an incredibly difficult time. Cara has often encouraged others to celebrate Xana’s life and to honor her memory by spreading kindness—a value Xana lived by.
Trusts and Charitable Efforts
As of mid-2024, there is no widely publicized, separate charitable trust or foundation established solely by Cara Northington. However, she has supported and participated in broader remembrance efforts alongside other victims’ families, including scholarship funds and memorial events in Xana’s honor.
About the Case
Cara Northington has been vocal in her desire for justice for Xana and the other victims. She has sometimes expressed frustration with the slow movement of the criminal justice process, but also gratitude for law enforcement’s dedication. Cara continues to follow the progress of the case and speaks out when she feels her voice can help keep attention on Xana and the pursuit of justice.
Legacy
Cara Northington’s love for Xana remains unwavering. Through her advocacy, participation in memorials, and efforts to keep Xana’s memory alive, Cara continues to honor her daughter. Her openness about her grief and her calls for kindness have resonated with many, serving as a testament to the enduring bond between mother and daughter.
Kaylee Goncalves
Parents: Steve (father) and Kristi (mother) Goncalves
Steve and Kristi Goncalves: Devotion, Advocacy, and Remembrance for Kaylee
Kaylee Goncalves was the beloved daughter of Steve and Kristi Goncalves, and a cherished member of a large, tight-knit family in Idaho. The Goncalves family has been at the forefront of the search for justice and remembrance following Kaylee’s tragic passing in November 2022.
Court Hearings and Family Presence
Steve and Kristi Goncalves have been highly visible throughout the legal proceedings against Bryan Kohberger, the accused in the University of Idaho student murders, and now Guilty by his own admission. They have attended numerous court hearings in Latah County, Idaho, frequently appearing both in person and virtually. Their continued presence has been a source of strength and solidarity for the community, as well as a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to Kaylee and the other victims.
The Goncalves parents have often been vocal during and after court hearings, giving interviews to the press and making public statements. They have advocated for transparency in the legal process, called for swift justice, and sometimes expressed frustration with the pace and conduct of the proceedings.
Public Statements and Advocacy
Steve and Kristi have spoken eloquently and candidly about their love for Kaylee—her intelligence, humor, and ambition—and the incredible pain of her loss. They have become advocates not only for Kaylee but for all four victims, frequently emphasizing the importance of keeping the victims’ memories at the center of public attention.
The family has made frequent media appearances, participating in interviews with local and national outlets to share stories about Kaylee, discuss the ongoing case, and encourage legislative changes to support victims’ families. Their advocacy has included calls for increased victims’ rights, more open communication from investigators, and community support for those grieving.
Charitable Efforts and Memorials
The Goncalves family has established scholarships and participated in memorial events in Kaylee’s honor. The “Kaylee Goncalves Foundation” was created to provide scholarships to students and support causes Kaylee cared about, such as animal rescue. The family has organized and attended vigils, walks, and fundraisers, ensuring Kaylee’s legacy continues to inspire others.
Made with kindness foundation link to Website
Siblings and Family Bonds
Kaylee grew up in a loving family with five siblings, all of whom have been deeply affected by her loss. The Goncalves siblings have supported each other and their parents throughout the aftermath, often appearing together at memorial events and in interviews. Their bond and collective strength have helped sustain the family during an unimaginably difficult time.
About the Case and Ongoing Role
Steve and Kristi have maintained a close relationship with investigators and other victims’ families. They have attended high-profile hearings, kept the public updated, and pushed for answers and accountability. Their advocacy has made them well-known figures in the case, and their determination to honor Kaylee’s memory has inspired many.
Legacy
Through their ongoing court attendance, charitable initiatives, and public advocacy, Steve and Kristi Goncalves ensure that Kaylee’s memory endures. Their devotion to justice, family, and community stands as a powerful tribute to Kaylee and a source of hope and strength for all affected by this tragedy.
Madison (Maddie) Mogen
Parents: Ben Mogen (biological father)
Ben Mogen: Love, Grief, and Advocacy for Maddie Mogen
Madison “Maddie” Mogen was the cherished daughter of Ben Mogen. Ben, often described as a devoted and loving father, has been a steady presence in the aftermath of Maddie’s tragic death in November 2022.
Court Hearings and Family Involvement
Ben Mogen has attended multiple court hearings related to the case against Bryan Kohberger, the accused in the University of Idaho murders. He has traveled to Latah County, Idaho, to be present at key proceedings, including initial appearances and pre-trial hearings. Ben’s attendance has been a visible expression of his commitment to Maddie’s memory and his determination to see justice served. He has sometimes appeared alongside Maddie’s mother and other family members, united in their pursuit of answers and accountability.
Public Statements and Advocacy
In interviews and public statements, Ben has spoken movingly about Maddie’s life, her kindness, and her close relationship with both him and her mother. He has described the deep pain of losing his only child and the emptiness left behind. Ben has emphasized the importance of remembering the victims as individuals, not just as part of a tragic event, and has often shared anecdotes that highlight Maddie’s character, humor, and love for life.
Ben has also expressed gratitude to the community and law enforcement for their continued support and dedication to the case. He has called for patience and faith in the legal process, even as he and his family endure the prolonged wait for resolution.
Charitable Efforts and Memorials
The Mogen family has participated in memorial events, vigils, and scholarship funds established in Maddie’s honor. These efforts are often joined by the other victims’ families and the University of Idaho community. The family has encouraged donations to causes that reflect Maddie’s interests and values, such as supporting students and acts of kindness.
Remembrance and Legacy
Ben Mogen honors Maddie’s memory by sharing her story, advocating for justice, and supporting efforts that keep her spirit alive. He has been open about the challenges of grief but has also focused on celebrating Maddie’s life, her accomplishments, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her.
About the Case and Ongoing Role
Ben continues to follow the legal process closely, attending hearings and working with other families to ensure the victims are never forgotten. His presence at court and in the public eye has been a source of strength for the family and a reminder of the enduring bond between father and daughter.
Parents: Karen Laramie (Madison’s mother), with stepfather Scott Laramie
Karen and Scott Laramie: A Mother and Stepfather’s Devotion to Maddie Mogen
Madison “Maddie” Mogen was the beloved daughter of Karen Laramie and the cherished stepdaughter of Scott Laramie. Their lives were forever changed by her tragic death in November 2022, and since then, both Karen and Scott have been at the forefront of remembrance and the pursuit of justice for Maddie.
Court Hearings and Family Presence
Karen and Scott Laramie have actively participated in legal proceedings related to Bryan Kohberger, the accused in the University of Idaho murders. They have attended numerous court hearings in Latah County, Idaho, sometimes appearing together with other members of Maddie’s family. Their presence has reflected both their dedication to Maddie’s memory and their resolve to ensure justice is served. Karen in particular has been a consistent and visible presence at these hearings, offering strength and solidarity with the other victims’ families.
Public Statements and Advocacy
Both Karen and Scott have made heartfelt public statements about Maddie’s vibrant spirit, loving nature, and the devastating loss they now endure. Karen has been especially open in sharing memories of Maddie, emphasizing her warmth, intelligence, and the close mother-daughter bond they shared. The Laramies have participated in interviews and community events, often stressing the importance of keeping Maddie’s memory and the memories of all four victims at the center of public attention.
Through these appearances, Karen and Scott have also advocated for transparency in the investigation, updates for the victims’ families, and greater awareness of the ongoing impact of violent crime on families and communities.
Charitable Efforts and Memorials
Karen and Scott have helped organize and attended memorials, vigils, and scholarship initiatives in Maddie’s name. Working with the University of Idaho and the other victims’ families, they have encouraged charitable giving to causes that reflect Maddie’s values and aspirations, including supporting students and various community projects.
Remembrance and Legacy
Karen and Scott continue to honor Maddie’s life through acts of service, storytelling, and by staying connected with the community that loved Maddie so deeply. Their ongoing participation in remembrance events and advocacy for the victims serve as a testament to their love for Maddie and their determination to preserve her legacy.
About the Case and Ongoing Role
The Laramies remain closely involved with the ongoing legal process, attending significant hearings and working with other families to support each other. Their dedication ensures Maddie’s story remains at the forefront, and their strength has provided inspiration to many within and beyond their community.