Conde killed in Afghanistan

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    Spc. Gabriel D. Conde, 22, great-nephew of Monse and Olga Conde of Holyoke, was killed during a combat operation in eastern Afghanistan Monday, April 30.
    His death occurred just weeks before his unit’s deployment in Afghanistan was scheduled to end.
    A 2014 graduate of Berthoud High School, Conde’s loss is felt by a wide community. He was the first fallen soldier from Colorado in close to four years.
    Colorado State Sen. Kevin Lundberg of Berthoud was granted a moment of personal privilege on the legislative floor Wednesday, May 2, to reflect on Conde’s sacrifice.
    Lundberg said, “He died protecting his team. He was providing the cover while they were attacked. Others survived, but he gave his life to make that happen.”
    “He and his family have a strong faith and have confidence that the God of our universe, the superior ruler of the universe, is in control and has received Gabe to his eternal rest and reward,” added Lundberg.
    He then requested a moment of silence and the ringing of the Senate chimes “in honor of a true hero who is no longer with us.”
    Conde was the son of Bob and Donna Conde and had two sisters, Olivia and Priscilla. Bob’s cousin, Angela (Conde) Purdy acknowledged in a media release for the family that they have been “overwhelmed by the multitude of heartfelt words and sentiments expressed by the people who know Gabe and the many who have never met him, yet feel connected to him.”
    When details for the memorial services are finalized, the family will issue another statement. They said Sunday, May 6, that they expect that to happen in the next 7-10 days.

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