Thaindian News

Chicago Mar 2 (THAINDIAN NEWS) Officiated by the Reverend Thomas McCarty, Dawn’s Brancheau’s funeral services ended as a celebration of the light she shed on the world through her work, her friends, and her family. Several candles were lit to symbolize her light shining on. “We must honor her by giving the light she has given to us. This is not the end for Dawn. This is a transition.” Rev. McCarthy said to over 200 people who had attended the services of the former SeaWorld trainer who was tragically killed by a killer whale on February 24. The services were held at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel on Chicago’s Southwest Side.

Brancheau, 40, was a devout Catholic, who led Bible Study and was active in her beliefs. She was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois, but was raised in Cedar Lake, Indiana. She was the baby of six kids, who affectionately called her “little caboose.” She died when the 12, 000 pound killer whale named Tilikum pulled her into the water and dragged her, in front of around 24 tourists. Although this was the third time the whale has been connected to a person’s death, it will not be put down. Video(embedded below), shot by a tourist just moments before Dawn’s death, shows footage of her playing with the whale, and then lying in the water, face to face with the beast that, moments later, killed her.

The funeral, attended by a select group which was carefully picked to portray Branchneau and her fun loving persona, was very emotional, and full of inspirational music, such as Terri Lenz singing “Wind Beneath My Wings.” This song choice was requested by Dawn’s family. Her loved ones wanted her to be remembered for the light that she showed to the world. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, may God comfort them, in their loss.

Video Before Killer Whale Attack