Adam Samuel Dern arrived in this world on November 30th, into the loving arms of Cathy and Bob Dern. An incredibly charming child, Adam won the hearts of many, including that of his younger sister Marissa Foster. Together they were best friends, pilots of people powered paper planes, miners of candy, and mud wrestlers. Through his teens Adam was an accomplished cyclist, winning cross-country races and developing a passion for biking that carried through to his adult years. He excelled in ski racing, was a talented musician, and had a smile that was contagious. Adam graduated with a Bachelors Degree from the University of Utah in Biochemistry and went to work for Usana. An extremely hard worker and skilled chemist, Adam soon had his work published and his strengths shining through. Always the prankster and an irresistible personality, Adam made many friends, who did occasionally fall for his charm and agree to join him in a ride or ski adventure with he and his wife, Christine. Meeting in 2001, Christine came into Adam's life not expecting to make the impact that she has, but helped shape him into the amazing man we all know and love. Christine and Adam have had more adventures than can be counted, not to mention stitches, broken bones, and hilarious mishaps in the backwoods of Utah and beyond. Whether rock climbing, speeding down single track in the mountains, or breaking trail in the backcountry, Adam was always moving at top speed and taking everyone he could with him for the ride. Adam was never happier with his best friend and wife who challenged and loved him, providing stability in each others lives and pushing each other to their best. Hidden under his amazing smile and his contagious laugh was a sadness that was unknown to most. Determined to win the battle with Bipolar Disorder, Adam took his own life on June 30th. It is with great sadness that we say farewell, and relief that he is finally at peace. Please email any thoughts or stories to [email protected]. Please join us for a celebration of Adam's life, Thursday, July 7th, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Red Butte Gardens, 300 Wakara Way. Casual dress.
Published in the Deseret News on July 5, 2011.