Born on Sept. 17, 1968, in Lake Placid, he was the only son of Lewis and Lorraine Staats.

A private family service will be held in Lake Placid in October. The public is invited to view his procession down Lake Placid Main Street as he travels to his final resting place (date TBA). Memorial donations may be made in his name to: The Gary Sinise Foundation at Garysinisefoundation.org/donate. This organization supports and honors veterans, first responders and fallen heroes.