Funeral Held For Minnesota Family Killed In Nebraska Crash

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- People around the world are remembering the Minnesota family killed while on their way to finish missionary training.

Kathryne and Jamison Pals were planning to move to Japan to reach people with their faith.

They were driving through Nebraska last weekend when a semi slammed into the back of their van.

The couple and their children -- Ezra, Violet, and Calvin -- were killed, as well as someone in another car.

Tony Weekly is charged with five counts of vehicular homicide. Witnesses say the Florida trucker was speeding and did not slow down until hitting the Pals' vehicle.

The Pals' loved ones wanted to share the memorial Saturday with the world. Their church broadcasted the service on the Internet. Family, clergy and fellow missionaries shared message of love.

On a sunny summer day, they gathered to mourn but also to praise. David Su is a fellow church member.

"We come to celebrate their life, you know, so we have hope that someday we'll meet again," Su said.

And celebrate they did, with about 1,000 people in attendance at the memorial service at Bethlehem Baptist Church.

"They thought, it's true, they were going to Colorado, but God had a better trip planned, a heavenly one and they are surrounded with joyful gain," Pastor Jason Meyer said.

On a day filled with so many questions over such great loss, the Pals' loved ones found answers in their faith.

"He's going to use this so that their lives and Jamison's message will impact the world so much more than they ever could have if they would have gone to Japan," said Nancy Engel, Kathryne's mother.

Kathryne's parents paused to offer love for Weekly, who is charged in their deaths.

"We are praying for you, Tony, and we do forgive you," Engel said.

There was also a special time to honor their children. Four-year-old Ezra was remembered for his friendliness and helpful nature. Two-year-old Violet was remembered for her joy. And Baby Calvin was remembered for his strength and love of food.

And together they are remembered as a family on a mission.

"Kathryne and Jamison's life was to us, a picture of, it was to the strength, the perseverance that they had Jesus Christ was the center of their lives," Engel said.

The family was hoping that Weekly was able to watch their message during the online broadcast. He is is in jail on $1 million bail.

A foundation has been created in honor of the Pals to continue the mission they started. Click here for more information.