Theodore Dylan '(Teddy)' Taft

• 

Taft, Theodore (Teddy) Dylan Beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, age 27, who grew up in Rosemount MN and resided in Eagan, MN, died unexpectedly on September 17, 2015. He is survived by his loving parents, Brian and Deb (Schwartz) Taft of Rosemount, MN; his brothers: Granger Taft of Minneapolis, MN; Logan (fiancé, Catherine Gubbels) Taft of Minneapolis, MN; along with his treasured grandparents, Charles and Gwen (Henderson) Schwartz of Eagan, MN, Kermit Taft of Huron, SD; aunts and uncles, Julie (Orlin) Te Slaa, Gregory (Teresa) Schwartz, Blake (Darcy) Taft, Jonathan (Annie) Schwartz, Stephanie (Steve) Galloway; and loved cousins; many, many cherished friends; and his buddy Wally, the family dog. He is predeceased by grandmother Linda Taft Jones and Uncles: Jeffrey Schwartz and Brett Taft. Teddy was a graduate of Rosemount High School (2006), ISD 196 Transition Plus (2009), and worked in many locations through ProAct - a jobs training program for those with disabilities. His latest and greatest work related accomplishment was getting a job at Cub Foods in Eagan, MN. He was so proud of his job there and was earning additional responsibilities due to his hard work. The best thing about the job was how nice the people were - he loved everyone there. Teddy had a passion for the outdoors and being active his whole life. He climbed before he could walk, and before he could compete himself, he was the best fan at all of his brother's games. He was also a devoted Rosemount High School "Super Fan." He took the responsibilities of this job-donning ridiculous combinations of RHS colors and rousing the Rosemount crowd-very seriously. We were thrilled to start cheering Teddy on in HS adaptive sports and Special Olympics. Floor hockey and track were his favorites. His greatest joy came in the last couple of years when he became an official Special Olympics coach - cheering his friends on and helping them, this is what motivated Teddy most. Teddy had a heart of gold. He would do anything for his friends; he always put others first, often to his own detriment. He had a gentle way of caring and lifting others up with his wonderful smile, positive energy, and boundless imagination. He never hesitated to offer support when a friend or family member was in need. Teddy knew how to live in the moment and how to enjoy each and every day. There will never be a day when he will not be missed. He will be remembered for his kind and giving ways, for being a best friend to so many, and for bringing a special light into his family's life while he was here. The family would like to thank all of those whose love and support bring comfort and strength. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to Rosemount High School and Special Olympics MN/RAVE would be appreciated by the family. Visitation 5-8 PM, Tuesday, Sept. 22nd at Henry W. Anderson Mortuary, 14850 Garrett Ave, Apple Valley and also 1 hour before the service, Wednesday at church. Funeral service 11 AM, Wednesday, Sept. 23rd at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 13901 Fairview Dr. Burnsville. Henry W. Anderson 952-432-2331 henrywanderson.com

Published on September 21, 2015