A family is distraught after a Colorado cemetery has demanded the removal of a headstone that features a shared middle finger gesture between two brothers.
Ryan Geschke, who passed away unexpectedly on October 5, 2021, would have celebrated his brother Timothy’s 43rd birthday that same day. Timothy had died just a year prior, shortly after the initial COVID-19 lockdown began.
The brothers, honored by their surviving sisters, Heidi and Holly Geschke, share a tombstone that reflects their unique humor and companionship, even in death. They often have their favorite drinks nearby during family visits.
The headstone itself is designed to resemble a tree trunk, with a statue of a squirrel on top, and features pictures of the brothers alongside two middle fingers above their family names.
However, during a recent winter visit, the Geschke family was shocked to find the symbolic gestures obscured with black tape. Reports indicate that cemetery director, Cheryl Godbout, claimed the imagery was “inappropriate” and against site regulations, but didn’t specify how many complaints had been lodged regarding the headstone.
The sisters were unimpressed by this explanation. “This symbolizes love and the Geschke heritage,” Holly remarked.
She also expressed concern about the future. “No one wants to revisit these decisions years later,” she added.
Defiantly, the Geschkes removed the tape and stated they would not alter the headstone to comply with the cemetery’s standards. “They’re in their resting place—now we’re asked to disturb that. It’s baffling,” Holly expressed.
If the cemetery doesn’t relent, Holly mentioned they might transfer Timothy and Ryan’s remains elsewhere. “These are my brothers. I won’t let this go,” she declared, affirming their commitment to fight for their brothers’ memorial. “Regardless of the outcome, we’re making sure their voices are heard.”
