Funeral service held for Rubi Vergara, 14-year-old killed in Madison school shooting

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- It has been another painful day in Madison. One of the two victims who were killed in the Madison school shooting this week was laid to rest on Saturday, Dec. 21. 

The funeral for the 14-year-old student, Rubi Vergara, was held this morning at City Church in Madison. 

There were a lot of tears and emotional speeches as Rubi Vergara, family, friends and community came together to say their final goodbye to the young girl they say was taken from them too soon. 

"Rubi was a beautiful young woman inside and out and I am forever grateful for the time we had with her," said Dawn Moris, a family friend.

The service started with a tribute of song followed by a prayer, asking God for comfort in their time of grief. Rubi was a freshman at Abundant Life Christian School. Today, all those who knew Rubi best shared their favorite memories of the girl who was passionate about art, music, and reading.

"Perhaps Rubi's greatest gift was her friendship," said Rubi's best friend's mother, Abbey Staum. "She had an incredible ability to bring joy, humor and thoughtfulness to the people she cared for."

Staum was one of the many who spoke today. Staum's daughter Josie and Rubi have been inseparable since 4K. She fought back tears as she shared what was her and her daughters last moment with Rubi.

"As they hugged goodbye, I never imagined that would be the last time we would see Rubi," said Staum. "I thought they would grow up and do something amazing with all their creative ideas together."

Rubi's family is heartbroken for all the future moments that were stolen from them. As they try to heal, they offered their forgiveness to the accused shooter, 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow.

"We hold no bitterness or unforgiveness towards 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow and her family," said Andy Remus, Rubi's uncle. "They lost a daughter too. Somehow this precious child of God lost her way."

Never forgetting the girl who reminds them of what it means to love and cherish those around them.

"Thank you, Rubi for being our gift," said Staum. "We will carry you in our hearts forever."

Erin West, the teacher who was also killed in the shooting, will have a service and be laid to rest on Monday, Dec. 23.