Fletcher loved his family, Harper was a 'joyful' big sister: Annunciation shooting victims mourned

(OSV News) -- Eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel "loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking and any sport that he was allowed to play." Ten-year-old Harper Moyski was a "joyful" big sister, who was "bright" and "deeply loved."

The parents of both children confirmed as victims of the Aug. 27 shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church issued their first statements in the aftermath, mourning the loss of their children.

Jesse Merkel, Fletcher's father, said the hole left in his family's hearts by his son's death will never be filled, during an Aug. 28 press conference outside Annunciation School in Minneapolis.

In his remarks, Jesse Merkel said they would never be allowed to "watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming."

He also noted prayers for the family of Harper Moyski and of the other people affected by the shooting, and expressed gratitude for "the swift and heroic actions of children and adults alike" inside the church.

"We ask not for your sympathy, but your empathy as our family and our Annunciation community grieve and try to make sense of such a senseless act of violence," Merkel said. "Please remember Fletcher for the person he was, and not the act that ended his life."

Harper was a "bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old whose laughter, kindness, and spirit touched everyone," her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, said in a statement issued Aug. 28.

"Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper's sister, who adored her big sister and is grieving an unimaginable loss. As a family, we are shattered," they said.

"While our immediate focus is on Harper and our family's healing, we also believe it is important that her memory fuels action. No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain. We urge our leaders and communities to take meaningful steps to address gun violence and the mental health crisis in this country," they continued.

"Harper's light will always shine through us, and we hope her memory inspires others to work toward a safer, more compassionate world."

Choking back tears, Fletcher's father pleaded: "Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today."

He said, "We love you, Fletcher, and you'll always be with us."