by Nick Delgado

Guam - Childhood classmates, longtime friends and family members filled the St. Francis Catholic Church in Yona today, paying last respects to U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Nathan Paet.

Susan T. Chaira knew Paet since the two were in the 8th grade together, saying, "He was a friendly person, never angry, never got in fights always there for everyone, just a goofy kind of guy."

The life of the 28-year-old son of Guam, who was serving his country, was tragically cut short on December 2 at the hands of individuals who police say were motivated by greed.

Four people were arrested for the murder, including Nathan's wife, Michelle.

"Nate dedicated his life to his family to his career and to his friends," memorialized his brother, Eric. "He spent every waking moment to ensure that his family had all their necessities, necessary amenities of life - a home, food on the table, love and of course healthcare." Eric delivered Nathan's eulogy today, remembering how Nathan loved sports from a very young age, from riding dirt bikes and quads to rollerblading, boogie boarding and snow boarding. Nathan was known for his sense of humor and had an infectious laugh and a passion for life.

He loved to cook and spend time with his family. He was a dedicated worker, an F-15 supply section technician assigned to the 757th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, who ensured 100 percent accuracy of aircraft inventory to guarantee millions of dollars worth of parts were up to par with military standards. "Not many of us can say that we've done that; Nate was a proud Chamorro. Although we did not speak the language or understand it as well as we wanted to this did not stop him from sharing our culture and what he stood for," Eric said.

Nathan Paet was laid to rest this afternoon at the Veterans Cemetery in Piti, always to be remembered as a loving husband, great father, good son and good friend. "You can shed tears because he is gone or you can smile because he has lived, you can close your eyes and pray that he comes back or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left," Eric added.

All four defendants charged in connection with Nathan Paet's murder are scheduled to appear in the Clark Country Justice Court tomorrow morning to answer to the murder and conspiracy charges they face.