The small community of Cloquet, Minnesota is mourning the inexplicable loss of 35-year-old Patrick Roers, one of the victims slain in the recent motel shooting that also claimed the life of a young hotel worker. CBS Minnesota reports that Roers, nicknamed "Bubba" by his family for his cheerful presence since birth, was gunned down in his car in the Super 8 parking lot while in town for his first week of tree-trimming training.

His sister, Ellen Roers, shared with FOX21 that the love and support from the community have been overwhelming as she and her family grapple with Patrick's untimely death. Patrick was just days into his new job at Utilitree, where his charismatic personality played a key role in his hiring according to company owner Chris Storlie, who also initiated a GoFundMe to assist the family. Schools remember Patrick as a man whose smile would light up a room, and his genuine, easygoing nature left a marked impression on those lucky enough to cross paths with him.

Amidst this heartbreaking scenario, Ellen clings to the belief that her brother passed while happy, sitting in his truck and doing what he loved best. She told CBS Minnesota, "My message to others is really make sure you celebrate your loved ones when they're here, here on the present plane, because when they go, it feels a little too late." Ellen remembers her brother as someone who brought love and cares effortlessly, simply by being authentic and true to himself.

An outpouring of grief and memories filled a recent vigil where friends and family came together to honor Patrick, Ellen, recalling the bond she shared with her brother as the youngest and last single sibling, emphasized his aspiration to be a husband and a father, positions he would have undoubtedly excelled in due to his inherent kindness and loving nature, she expressed to CBS Minnesota.