A funeral service was held over the weekend for Pte. Aidan Goulding, one of the victims in the tragic fire at CFB Wainwright on Oct. 17.

Aidan was described as a smart, resourceful, determined, and fearless young man. The 23-year-old’s life was celebrated Sunday at Vancouver’s Seaforth Armoury, where family, friends, and members of the Canadian Armed Forces officially laid him to rest.

Aidan’s mother, Sonia Monk, said her son was unapologetically himself, and he had a personality that could brighten any room. Monk spoke about how Aidan wanted to wear a white suit to school on his first day of Grade 4 and a gold suit when he turned 21. She said her son was an exceptional athlete and had a contagious laugh, and they shared a passion for fixing used cars.

“It was the greatest privilege of my life to be his mother and his friend,” said Monk.

“I feel like I’m driving with one headlight. The road is still there, I’ll try to keep moving forward, but it will never be quite as bright. I love you, Aidy. Rest in peace, my bright light.”

Aidan’s brother Wylder Goulding spoke about the “mischief” they got into when they were growing up together. He mentioned Aidan’s signature move on the dance floor was the worm, and said his brother was his best friend and fiercest competitor.

“I’ll miss my brother, my friend, my confidante, my hero,” Wylder said.

“I’ll miss that contagious smile, that laugh, that light of the room he walked into.”

Aidan had just finished his infantry training this past July. The day of his funeral was supposed to be the day of his first parachute jump as a member of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.

His commanding officer, Captain Jack O’Connell, said he was an outgoing, charismatic warrior.

“He had an inspiring warrior spirit and never failed to elevate those around him,” O’Connell said.

“He had determination that was hard to miss, and when things became difficult, he was not the type of person to simply give up.”

His mother also acknowledged the overwhelming support from people across the country and the newfound community within the Canadian Armed Forces.

“All of the support and seeing everybody here today, it’s remarkable,” she said.

Goulding’s family recognized the other victims who lost their lives in the tragedy and the dozens of soldiers who remain in hospital.

Monk says serving in the Canadian military was the highlight of Aidan’s life and that he joined because he wanted to make a difference.

“He said, ‘I have one life to live; I want to do something important, so I’m joining the army,’” she said.

“I think that’s so unselfish of him. I admire him, and I’m so proud of him.”