When 12-year-old Kaleb Klakulak lost his best friend K.J. Gross, the world suddenly felt a little colder. The two had been inseparable — spending weekends playing video games, swapping jokes, and sharing dreams about the future. K.J.’s laughter was the kind that filled every room, and his friendship was the kind you never forget.
But earlier this year, K.J.’s life was tragically cut short. His passing left Kaleb heartbroken and struggling to understand how someone so full of life could be gone so soon. “He was my best friend,” Kaleb said softly. “It just didn’t feel real.”
As Kaleb tried to cope, he learned something that broke his heart even more: K.J.’s mother, LaSondra Singleton, couldn’t afford to buy a headstone for her son’s grave. Without it, she had no way to mark his final resting place — no name, no stone, just an unmarked patch of earth.
Kaleb couldn’t stand the thought of his best friend being forgotten. So, this determined 12-year-old decided to take matters into his own hands.
He began collecting spare change, doing chores for neighbors, and taking on odd jobs around his Detroit neighborhood. When his allowance wasn’t enough, he got creative — setting up a PayPal donation page and sharing K.J.’s story with anyone who would listen. Every dollar he raised brought him one step closer to his goal.
Weeks passed. Kaleb worked tirelessly — raking leaves, washing cars, and helping wherever he could. He didn’t stop until he had raised $900, enough to buy the headstone his friend deserved.
When Kaleb handed the money to LaSondra, she was overcome with emotion. Tears streamed down her face as she realized what this young boy had done for her son.
“I cried because it was unexpected,” LaSondra said through tears. “I cried because I’m trying to figure out things from day to day. Now, I can see his final resting place. I have a place to go and be with him.”
Her words captured what so many felt: this wasn’t just about a headstone — it was about love, remembrance, and the power of human kindness.
Kaleb’s act of generosity rippled far beyond his small community. People across the country were inspired by his compassion — a reminder that age doesn’t define how deeply one can care. In a world that can often feel divided, a 12-year-old boy reminded everyone what truly matters: friendship, empathy, and love that lives on even after loss.
Today, K.J.’s resting place bears a beautiful headstone, lovingly chosen and paid for by the friend who refused to forget him. And every time LaSondra visits her son, she sees more than just a name carved in stone — she sees proof that kindness endures.
Kaleb may be young, but his heart carries a wisdom far beyond his years. His story is a powerful reminder that even the smallest hands can make the biggest difference. ❤️