It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Damien Rose, age 24, who left this earth too soon on January 4th, 2025. Damien was born on December 23, 2000, in Mesa, AZ, where he grew up surrounded by love and adventure. Raised in the vibrant Phoenix Metro area, Damien attended school primarily in the East Valley, where he blossomed into the kind and compassionate soul we cherished.
Damien was a devoted fiancé to Brandy Ricker and a proud father to his cherished daughter, Astraea Ricker-Rose, and his unborn son, Hades Jay Rose. His family meant everything to him, and he took immense joy in being a part of their lives.
He is survived by his loving mother, Olivia Stockham, and stepfather, Shawn Stockham, as well as his father, Weslie Rose. Damien was blessed to have siblings who adored him—his brother Phoenix, and sisters Alyssa Amundson, and Charlie Stockham. He shared a special bond with his brother-in-law, Erik Amundson, and the family is grateful for the sweet moments he shared, especially with his beloved niece, Lilly Amundson, who will carry his memory forward.
Damien’s vibrant spirit and warmth touched the lives of all who knew him. He possessed an infectious smile and a heart full of kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh with those fortunate enough to be in his presence. His passion for life extended into every community he stepped into, making friends, and bringing joy without reservation.
Damien was not a man of many hobbies, yet those he pursued held great significance in his heart. He took immense pride in his extensive collection of knives and swords, each piece telling a story of craftsmanship and history that captivated his imagination. However, it was his passion for creating and composing music that allowed him to express his emotions and connect with others profoundly. A true lover of animals, Damien’s gentleness extended to all creatures great and small, and his enduring bond with his pets was a testament to his nurturing spirit.
Born with an innate ability to connect with others, DJ approached life with a unique mission: to uplift spirits and spread positivity, ensuring that every gathering brimmed with fun and good vibes. His infectious smile and hilarious sense of humor had the remarkable ability to transform even the dullest moments into lasting memories. DJ tackled challenges not only with strength but also with a generosity that set him apart. It was not uncommon for him to offer help or share his last dollar with those in need, illustrating his profound empathy and profound commitment to others.
DJ bravely battled his own darkness, facing struggles that at times seemed insurmountable. Despite these challenges, he remained a beacon of light, offering unwavering love to his family and friends, often putting their needs above his own. His gentle spirit touched everyone who was fortunate enough to know him, as he shared smiles and warmth wherever he went.
He is cherished in the memories of his family, for whom he was a rock and an inspiration—a devoted son whose kindness and love never waned. As a new father, he embraced the joys and responsibilities of parenthood with an enthusiasm that lit up his world. His sweet interaction with his little one will forever be imprinted in our hearts—a reminder of the love and joy he brought to this family.
Although his life carries an undeniable weight of sorrow, let us remember the joy DJ spread, the laughter we shared, and the hope he infused into our lives. He grappled with shadows but prevailed in kindness, and his legacy will undoubtedly echo through the joys he left behind.
Though his time with us was far too brief, the legacy of love and determination he leaves behind will forever resonate in the hearts of his family and friends. In honoring Damien’s memory, let us all strive to live life with the same eagerness, kindness, and spirit of adventure that he embraced every day.
As we bid farewell to DJ, we take comfort in knowing that he now finds tranquility—a peace that eluded him in life. He will always be remembered, loved, and missed beyond measure.
Rest in peace, dear Damien. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Your love shines brightly in our hearts. Your legacy of love, passion, and creativity will always inspire those who had the privilege of knowing you.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
May we all find peace but forever hold him alive and happy in our hearts. He will forever be our DJ ❤️
So sorry for your loss !
There are no words other than my heart is with all of you….
When I was about 20 I had the privilege to watch the kids for a few weekends and school nights. Dj was always so willing to help with Charlie who was only 4 at the time. He was so great with her and my god did she adore him. Damien had such a kind soul who he seemed to only share with people he was close with. He knew who deserved the light he had to give. May he rest easy and my deepest condolences to his family, children, friends and anyone who got the chance to meet him.
You are missed unimaginably, I hope our Andy helped you crossover, and I certainly wish that you found peace. I will cherish the last memories me made…
Rest in Paradise dear Damien.
As a kid Damien and his older sister Alyssa were always at our house over the summer. We did lot of fun activities together going to the science museum, the zoo, water parks. I remember waking up almost every summer morning and Damien and Alyssa would be sleeping on the couch. Damien knew we purposely woke him up in the mornings.. pulling off his blanket in attempt to try and make him cold. Cranking up the tv volume just to see if he twitched. But every time we woke him up he’d play with us. He never dismissed us. He always made us feel included even if it was giving us a fake remote making us think we were playing x-box, or whatever console we were on. I just loved feeling apart. I will forever hold and cherish these memories that I hold of him. He will forever be in our hearts and continue to live through us. May we all continue to bring the light to the world that Damien brought to us all.
Damien (DJ), I’ve known you since middle school-high school, & you were truly such a beautiful soul. You brought so much laughter into my life & helped me through some of my hardest moments. No matter what, you always stuck by my side, & I’ll never forget that. You were one of my best childhood friends, & losing you is heartbreaking. My heart & prayers go out to your family. Fly high my friend.