On the final day of class Thursday, Pella Middle School students remembered a student who died during the school year.

A tree planted by the classmates of Caiden Knox was dedicated in his memory. Knox died unexpectedly in November of 2017 from a severe asthma attack. Classmates Braelyn Ensor and Ryder Bates gave a speech about Caiden’s life before placing a plaque in front of the tree, as the entire Class of 2023 gathered together to listen.

Both Ryder and Ensor tell KNIA/KRLS News when they think of Caiden, they look back at the joy he brought to the school.

“I hope they remember — as I said in my speech, his laugh and his smile,” Bates says. “He really cared about everybody and wanted to be friends with everyone and brighten everyone’s day.”

“His smile — above all, I just see it every time I think about him,” Ensor says. “He was just such a good friend to everybody.”

The tree is located on the Pella Middle School campus, and was planted by students as part of an effort to increase the tree canopy in the school district.