A vigil for deceased toddler, Chase Martens, was held Sunday evening, one day after the 2-year-old boy’s body was found in a creek behind his family home.

Destiny Turner and Thomas Martens hiked half a kilometre through a wooded area behind their home to the creek where Chase’s body was found.

They were joined by a crowd of about 50 friends, family and neighbours as they held a vigil for their toddler.

The vigil was organized by street patrol group, Bear Clan and family of Chase Martens.

A memorial made of teddy bears, toys and chocolate Easter eggs sits creekside where Chase was found.

The Bear Clan led a smudging ceremony and provided drumming, songs and prayers for the little boy and his family.

People in attendance gathered and watched in silence.

"This ceremony we had today.. that's to lift his spirit up and strengthen the family," said Bear Clan member Darryl Contois.

The family finally has some answers after their two-year-old son disappeared from their yard.

Chase’s mother and father, Thomas Martens and Destiny Turner, held one another as a member of the Bear Clan shared a song.

Both stood together by the creek as friends and family comforted them.

For five days an exhaustive and agonizing search brought the community together looking for Chase but in the end the outcome left searchers and Chase’s family heartbroken.

"It was very stressful wondering where he was or where he is, if somebody kidnapped him,” said Contois. “A lot of things go through your mind when it comes to a kid that small."

Chase's mom and dad said they were too distraught to speak about their son's death.

Contois shared a message on their behalf.

"They just say watch your kids don't leave them for a second because that's all it takes for them to go missing,” said Contois “Hold them, know that you love them each day."

Other family members of the toddler released balloons:

We let go of a bouquet full of balloons for baby chase on Easter up in heaven.. From Rosies birthday party.. Rest in peace baby cuzz��������

Posted by Trina Marie Walker on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Happy Easter baby chase �� ��������

Posted by Trina Marie Walker on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Funeral arrangements for Chase

A member of the Bear Clan spoke on behalf of Chase’s parents as Destiny Turner was too emotional to speak.

The funeral is to be held in Grand Rapids. Chase will be buried there as well. 

The family will leave for Grand Rapids Monday.

Chrisy Thomas, Chase's great aunt, posted on facebook:
 

There will be a Merchandise bingo tonight,March 28.8 pm at the band hall. For the Martin/Thomas/Turner family. Any...

Posted by Chrisy Thomas on Monday, March 28, 2016

 

There will be a service for our sweet Angel Chase,at McGregor Mennonite Church,on Wednesday.Wake services will take...

Posted by Chrisy Thomas on Monday, March 28, 2016


Crystal Swan, the funeral director with  Anderson Family Funeral Home in Ashern, MB said the service starts at 2 p.m.  at MacGregor Sommerfeld Mennonite Church.

The church seats 500. The viewing starts at noon and is open to the public.

Swan says a wake and burial will follow later in the week in Grand Rapids.

- With files from CTV's Josh Crabb.