Gone Too Soon: Hutchinson Man Joshua, 30, Remembered for His Unshakable Faith and Deep Love Amid Tragic Battle With Addiction

HUTCHINSON, KS — A Hutchinson family is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 30-year-old Joshua, who passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025, following a long and painful battle with addiction. His passing has deeply impacted those who knew and loved him, as the community mourns a man remembered for his faith, resilience, and unwavering love for his family—especially his children.

Joshua’s mother confirmed the news in a public statement, sharing a deeply emotional tribute that offered both an expression of sorrow and a message of hope through faith.

“It is finished, his battle is over,” she wrote, reflecting the anguish of a mother who witnessed her son’s years-long struggle with addiction and mental health. “As his mother, it broke my heart over and over watching him suffer as he tried so hard to battle the demons the drugs put in his head.”

Despite the challenges he faced, those closest to Joshua remember him as a man with a tender heart, a strong belief in Jesus, and a deep love for his two children. According to his family, Joshua was never shy about sharing his faith, often encouraging others to find hope in Christ even as he fought his own inner battles.

“If you truly knew Josh, you knew he loved Jesus and wasn’t shy telling you about Him,” his mother added. “He didn’t perish not knowing his Savior—he did know Him.”

A Devoted Father

One of Joshua’s most defining roles was that of a father. He leaves behind two children, including his 8-year-old son, Liam, for whom a memorial fund is being established. His family emphasized that Joshua’s love for his children never faded, regardless of the personal struggles he faced.

“No matter his battles, that never changed,” his mother said. “He loved both of his children immensely.”

Memorial and Community Tributes

A Celebration of Life service for Joshua is scheduled to take place on May 24, 2025, at his home church in Hutchinson. The service will provide friends and family with the opportunity to honor his life, share memories, and find comfort in community and faith.

Additionally, friends in Wichita have organized a separate honorary event on Wednesday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m., where those who knew Joshua can gather to remember his life and legacy.

A Family’s Message of Faith

Joshua’s passing is not only being remembered as a personal tragedy but also as a call to compassion and spiritual reflection. His mother used her message to reach others who may be struggling with addiction, mental health, or spiritual uncertainty.

“If you are reading this and don’t know Jesus, please call me, message me, and let me tell you about MY and Joshua’s Jesus,” she said. “I know if he could have one more conversation with you, he would beg you to not perish without knowing His Jesus.”

The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they’ve received from the community, saying they feel the power of every prayer.

As the Hutchinson community rallies around Joshua’s family, his memory will live on through the lives he touched, the children he loved, and the faith he carried to the very end.