Stories and secrets were shared during the emotional funeral of 16-year-old Joe Tourte on Friday. The Ankeny High School sophomore recently died from health complications while awaiting a heart transplant.

Several hundred people filled the Ankeny First United Methodist Church, and an extra row had to be formed at the back of the building.

Upon entering, mourners were greeted by a slideshow featuring images taken throughout Joe Tourte’s life. Joe as a baby (he weighed 8 lbs, 1 ½ oz.). Joe in a Superman costume. Joe underneath an igloo made from gallon milk jugs.

Richard Blachford, Joe’s grandfather, spoke first during the service, sharing memories of his grandson. He described Joe as someone who was “friendly, he always wanted to wrap himself around anyone he met.”

Did you know Joe Tourte? Share your memories of him in the comments.

Blachford repeatedly thanked Ankeny High School and the rest of the community for their assistance. A fundraiser last week raised $8,500 from the sale of T-shirts and red armbands that read “Hearts4Joe.”

Many of the funeral-goers chose to wear the fundraiser T-shirts to the service.

Lee Anne Lewis, one of Joe’s former teachers and one of the organizers of the “Hearts For Joe” campaign, described Joe as a fun-loving student.

“You never forget that contagious laugh,” Lewis said. “…He taught us the joy of the simple things, of being unburdened in life.”

Sara Tourte, Joe Tourte’s 21-year-old sister, began the eulogy with a series of stories about her brother.

“When we went to McDonalds, he always ordered a cheeseburger, French fries, a Sprite and a toy,” Sara said. “It was the happy meal, but Joe never ordered it that way.”

She finished her speech with a letter she had written to Joe.

“Don’t worry about Mom and Dad. They are sad, but I will take care of them,” she said. “…As for me, I will be okay. I will miss you. You are my best friend.”