Family of Lukas Strasser-Hird livestreams memorial

The family of Lukas Strasser-Hird held a celebration of his life Sunday at Abundant Life Church and livestreamed the service online.

The 18-year-old died last weekend after he was stabbed in a Beltline alley. Three males, aged 18, 19 and 20, have been charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection to his death. 

"At first I was kind of pissed off trying to find a parking spot on the way here — this place was so full, I was so mad. Now that I'm here and I see the influence Lukas had on all of Calgary. I mean, look at this, this is ridiculous," said Ty Javos, a friend of Strasser-Hird who said he was with him the night he died. 

"Even though he was outnumbered, outgunned at every position, he still went out fighting. And you know what? Anyone else I know would have been dead in that alley but he made it all the way to the hospital, he waited until he could be with his family, who drove hours and hours to see him in his final moments," said Javos. "There will never be another Lukas Strasser in this lifetime."

Strasser-Hird's death has garnered emotional reaction across the city, as many of the friends and family giving eulogies spoke of his commitment, loyalty and the way he inspired others to better themselves.

Attendees were asked to wear bright colours and many of those giving eulogies spoke about the size of the crowd that turned out to honour Strasser-Hird and reflect on his life.

Among the people giving eulogies were a number of friends, uncles and Strasser-Hird's nine-year-old sister.

"Without you here on Earth, my heart is broken in a million pieces," said his sister.

"I only knew you nine years but they were the best nine years of my life."