Kaleala & John
Wedding Party
Nicole Carter
Bridesmaid
In the Summer of 2015 Nicole had the misfortune of being my host on behalf of the U of I's track team. By the time we were halfway across campus (mind you it is a pretty small campus) I had already made up my mind that I wanted to be just like her. Nicole was the first person to really make me feel welcomed at the University... Not only that but she gave me confidence that I could succeed in college. I can not say ... and certainly do not say enough... how much our friendship means to me and I am so excited Nicole will be a part of the Leavell 2022 wedding PARTY!
Morgan Brackett
Bridesmaid
What made me decide to marry John you ask? Because he introduced to me fellow toad lover Morgan Brackett... Okay there may be a few other reasons but I am so excited that I have Morgan in my life. I admire her strength both mentally and physically. She is my number one pick to have by my side for any hike which will quickly turn into an entomology or botany related exploration. Thanks for keeping me on my toes and refreshing my identification skills! Lucky for John I met and fell in love with him first before we could run away together and study toad migrations.
Lauren Curlanis
Bridesmaid
Is it even college if you don't have a roommate to watch friends with (multiple times), and to chat about boys with. Not to mention 2 am bus rides home from track meets on the weekend, and stuffing our faces with crepes after a Saturday morning practice. I am so incredibly happy I found someone to put up with my quarks, and to gently nudge me away from the cliff of numerous life decision mistakes. She even let me bring a bunny into our apartment during my mid college life crisis. I'd take our late night roll out sessions watching friends over going out to the bars any day of the week.
Laura Lothrop
Bridesmaid
I have meet a lot of people that are outgoing, smart, and kind. But to find someone who has all of those characteristics yet does not take themselves too seriously is rare. So when on our very first date John lightheartedly cracked some puns after a long afternoon of Skadi and I foiling the bird hunt, I knew he was special. A year later when I got to meet John's cousin Laura, I genuinely wish I could have been a fly on the wall watching these two swap puns and stories. But instead, something even better happened. Not surprisingly, these two big hearted punsters welcomed me into their adventures. So grateful for all the time I get to spend with Laura, no matter what we do from rafting to staying in and playing pinochle it is always a hoot and a half!
Cecilia Grimm
Matron of Honor
From my high school years I admired this girl I saw at track meets named Cecilia Watkins for her athletic strength. Little did I know I would get to know her on a personal level and admire her for her mental strength. I never met someone a harder worker and her drive constantly inspires me. I have no idea how she took on so many hours at work while also being a full time college student. On top of that she found the time to meal prep and prepare amazing and fun dishes. Trying new things and going to new places is always more fun with Cece. Even just grabbing a lazy cup of coffee is more fun with you. Board games are always the most fun and full of laughs with Cece. My only complaint is we simply have not had enough game nights together.
Shayde Stotts
Groomsman
As we sat there in a sea of business suits and serious faces, I just knew that fellow in a hand-knit sweater was going to be my friend. Through business competitions, fishing trips, frozen hunting trips we have continued this chance friendship. Shayde is a truly unique human being with a heart of gold and charm enough to to bring even the most grumpy of trout right up to his fly. Thanks for all the adventures and I look forward to many more.
Nic Turco
Best Man
Double the trouble was a way of life as we grew up ,thick as thieves and always up to some kind of shenanigans. Nic was unfortunate enough to befriend this goofy, awkward, and down right weird kid from Stanley. Since then we have traveled the world together and shared unforgettable experiences. Through ups and downs, Nic has been a constant source of positivity and motivation.
Shaw Atkusu
Groomsman
Sweat, red bulls, and a whole lot of windshield time during our three years working for Sawtooth IHC created a enduring friendship and mutual respect. Shaw has continued his career in medical service and is now working towards his goal of being a Nurse Practitioner. Hard to pin down but a delight to converse with, Mr. Akutsu is an avid mountain biker and a fanatical fly fishing water worm wrangler.
Ian Yoder
Groomsman
When you see this well organized, driven, and friendly fellow you might think to yourself, "How did he fall in with that dirtbag John?" Well I shall tell you! It was a friendship formed by me insisting he join my biology lab group against his will. But also by frigid morning spent on the clearwater river and hours of exploring the darkly beautiful forests of North Idaho. Although he is a good friend I would never have though of Ian as the type to care about other peoples relationships. To my chagrin I must admit, the fool that I was had to be threatened into calling this, "freaking perfect person for you". Eventually I summed the courage to ask Kaleala on the most awkward/amazing last first date with me. Thank you again for not letting me hunt with you until I called her.
Sam Obletz
Groomsman
Till death do we part I guess, eh Sam? Destined to be friends even before we were born, we have grown up together sharing so much that I often just refer to you as my cousin or brother. All though no one ever believes the brother line cause I mean...I'm much taller and handsomer! Catching glimpses of totally different lives yet still sharing the same passion for adventure and brotherhood. Whether in English or in Spanish, Sam is always pushing me to better myself and the lives of those around me. Alway quick with a joke, this cheeky devil is quite the well rounded fellow and an amazing friend/brother/cousin/salmon.