Known for her bubbly nature, Kristen Trickle was a ray of sunshine.
Growing up in rural Hays, Kansas, she wanted to dedicate her life to the wonders of nature around her.
Although she worked in Walmart’s garden centre, Kristen had big dreams for her future.
Spotting a nearby house with a barn attached, she planned to buy it and set up a pet boarding business.
And her aunt and uncle, Delynn and Brant Rice, backed her all the way.
Especially as Kristen didn’t have an easy start to life either.
She had a tough childhood, with her mother walking out on her when she was just two.
But aged 17, Kristen moved in with her aunt and uncle.
And there, she thrived, becoming an older sister to her cousin, Chloe Rice.
