Kaiden Makai

Sherman-Vreen

On Sunday, January 30, 2011, in Gainesville, Florida, D’Marquis and Tara Vreen, welcomed a bright eyed, bouncing baby boy whom they introduced to the world as:

Kaiden Makai Sherman-Vreen

Kaiden attended Smokey Bear Kiddie College during his preschool years. His elementary school years were spent at multiple schools including Caring and Sharing Learning School (1st & 2nd grade), Genesis Preparatory School (3rd grade) and Archer Elementary School (4th & 5th grade). During the 6th - 8th grade years, Kaiden attended Oak View Middle School. As a 9th grader, Kaiden attended Newberry High School. Kaiden’s education during the current school year as a 10th grader was provided by the Hospital Homebound program.

Kaiden enjoyed gaming, expressing his creativity through drawing, and traveling with his family. At home, Kaiden’s playful spirit was always shining. He especially loved finding ways to rile up the family’s puppy, Bella Reign. His mischievous personality and amazing sense of humor kept everyone entertained. Playing soccer with his friends and hitting the baseball in the backyard with dad, mom, and siblings, allowed Kaiden to maintain strong bonds and positive connections. Whether gaming, drawing, enjoying his favorite activities, or doing simple things with his family, Kaiden had a way of making ordinary moments unforgettable. His unmatched personality was filled with love and laughter.

Kaiden was a loyal kiddo who loved his mother, father, and siblings beyond measure. He was, without a doubt, a mama's boy, sharing a special bond with his mother that will forever remain one of life’s most precious gifts to her. To his siblings, Kaiden was a loving brother whose presence brought a unique joy and light to their lives.

Kaiden was preceded in eternal rest by his paternal grandmother, Julia Torrance and paternal grandfather, Lonnie “Pee Wee” Vreen.

Through the challenges of cancer, Kaiden remained surrounded by the unwavering love of his parents. His journey was a testament to the depth of a mother’s love and the precious moments they experienced. Following a courageous six month battle, Kaiden entered the sunset of life on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at UF Shands - Gainesville at the age of 15.

Though Kaiden’s time on earth was far too short, Kaiden’s family considers every moment with him to have been a gift. His laughter and deep voice will echo in their memories. His love remains in the hearts of his parents, D’Marquis and Tara Vreen; cherished siblings, Kaila Austin-Vreen, Kaileb Vreen, and Kalani Vreen; grandparents, Andrew (Joanne) Stephens, Marjorie Wax; godmother, Kiki Cleare, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, classmates, friends and those whose lives were forever changed by knowing and loving him.

FAMILY TRIBUTE

Our phenomenal Kaiden, you were loved beyond measure, cherished beyond words, and will be missed beyond comprehension. You will forever be our “Poppah Swag”, our fighter, and our angel. Your battle is over, but your life story will never end. Until our paths cross, we will carry you in our hearts every single day. Farewell, my love!