Jayden L. Szkirka, 15, of East Hartford, beloved son of Stephen and Jacqueline (Cruz) Szkirka, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, October 10th, 2023.

Jayden was born and raised in the town of East Hartford, Connecticut. He attended O'Connell Elementary, Sunset Ridge Middle School, and University High School of Science and Engineering. He could always be found building Legos, playing video games, or writing stories. He also enjoyed watching Youtube videos, swimming, or riding his bike. Jayden loved being surrounded by family and close friends. Whether it was spent listening to music out by a fire making smores or having dance parties with his sisters. He also had an obsession for making everyone watch his favorite films, Planet of the Apes and Jurassic World. Many of his memories consisted of him helping his sisters bake, making everyone laugh, or winning at any family game night. He was so proud of becoming Emilio's only Tio (uncle). He had dreams of becoming an engineer and bringing all his creations to life. Which included helping other people battling cancer. Jayden found strength and purpose in God throughout his journey of life. He shared many of his spiritual encounters with everyone hoping to inspire faith in them. We find comfort knowing Jayden is at peace with God and has touched so many hearts.

Jayden is survived by his loving parents Stephen and Jacqui; sisters Keila Baez, Damaris Meza (Luis) and Vanessa Szkirka; nephew Emilio Meza; grandparents Leida Cruz, Wendy Sweller and Bohdan Szkirka; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to the Church of the Living God, 199 Deming St., Manchester, on Saturday, October 14th, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., with a memorial service being held at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be private.

Jayden Lucas Szkirka of East Hartford CT died of the age of 15 after a 4 1/2 years of fighting Osteosarcoma. He enjoyed the years since he was born being on Cheabeague Island, spending time with his Great Great Uncle Gerald Colbeth and His Great Great Aunt Dot. Jayden developed a great arm for throwing dark blue bottles on Bennetts Cove then moving his bottle throwing to his cousins Jan and Michael Ross Beach. He was the grandson of Wayne and Wendy Colbeth Sweller. His laughter, smile and Love for his family is truly going to be missed. His amazment of going to the Island and meeting more relatives always asked how come this Island isn't Called Cousins Island.