Liam Burdick, 18, of Rockford IL, passed away Monday, May 14th. He was born in Mauston, WI on February 18th, 2000. Liam attended Harlem High School and in his spare time, he loved to snuggle his dogs Nico and Alyce. He also loved to sing, draw and write poetry. Liam was an active member of his community, participating and leading several groups, activities and was a powerful advocate for equality. Liam is survived by his mother Phyllis Gallisath, father Jason Gallisath, sister Taiah Gallisath, brother Ryker Gallisath, his birth father Herbert Lee Burdick III and their family, his loving partner Celeste Rub, his grandparents, Vicki Legge, Linda and Mike Parent, Don and Karen Gallisath and Dorothy Bunjes, an overwhelming amount of extended family both blood and bond alike, PFLAG Rockford, DiversCity Youth Group, The Illinois Safe Schools Alliance Youth Committee, Action Camp folks, his TEACH family at Harlem High School, and all of the lives he touched during his short time here. His wonderful spirit, joy, and talents will be celebrated Monday, May 21st at one of his favorite places, Rock Cut State Park, Loves Park IL in the West Lake Shelter at 3 pm with a gathering for a fellowship to immediately follow at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Rockford IL. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to PFLAG. www.pflag.org

“I have felt my mother’s warmth. I have given my soul to other souls. I have loved and been loved more than I can recall. I have been accepted. I have been cherished and celebrated. I have lived. I will always live.” - Liam Burdick