GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- A West Michigan family is asking for the public's help after losing a key chain containing the ashes of a family member. 27-year old Danny Mansel passed away in January, and now his family and close friends carry a piece of him everywhere they go.
Danny's mother Paula Woody lost her piece of him at a concert at Van Andel Arena last week. The whole ordeal is gaining some attention on social media, with almost 800 shares on Facebook. They still haven't found it yet, but his mother, Paula, isn't losing hope just yet.
"I carry it with me in my car and everywhere I go," said Woody.
Woody brought Danny's ashes to a concert last week at Van Andel Arena.
"I took him to the Journey concert with me because he liked Journey and I lost him," said Woody.
Danny's family and friends carry his ashes in necklaces and pendants, Paula in a heart-shaped keychain.
"It has his name on it and it says 'Forever in my heart,'" said Woody. "It keeps him close to me."
Danny passed away in January from complications with Marfan's Syndrome, which affects connective tissue and the heart.
"He was so strong and had such a passion for life. I think that's what kept him going as long as he did," said Stacy Smith, Danny's best friend. "He was very lucky to have the support system that he had with his family and friends."
Stacy carries Danny in a pendant around her neck.
"I always carry him with me wherever I go and for me I think it's because I did so much stuff with him, he was such a big part of my life that knowing he's there with me makes me feel like he's getting to experience everything I'm experiencing," said Smith.
Woody's keychain still hasn't been found, but she jokes if she doesn't find it, Danny will still be there enjoying other concerts.
"Either I find it or he's going to be like the phantom of the Van Andel, I believe," said Woody. "He might be a little mad because he had to listen to Dolly Parton the other day, but I think he'd be totally amused."
Woody's since ordered a new keychain for Danny, but still hopes the other one is found.
"I've already ordered another one, so even if I get it back, well when I get it back, I'll have two," said Woody.
Woody believes the keychain is still at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids inside of a black velvet drawstring pouch. If you find it, or know someone who might've seen it, contact FOX 17 at News@fox17online.com or reporter Rebecca Russell at RRussell@fox17online.com.
