Coffee died eight days ago when he swerved to avoid metal shelving that fell from a truck on I-5 and then slammed into another car.

A touching memorial service was held Saturday to give those who knew him best a chance to share memories, and say goodbye.

"It was just hard to imagine, my life and my family's life without him," said Brett Coffee, Gavin's brother.

Gavin Coffee was on his way to his son's soccer game when metal shelves flew off a pick-up truck. Investigators believe it was an unsecured load.

Coffee swerved to avoid the shelves and crashed into another car. He died instantly, but his family is not angry with the 21-year-old driver of the pick-up. In fact, they invited him to the memorial service.

And Gavin's wife Heidi told us several days ago she'd welcome him at the service, because that's what Gavin would have wanted.

"I'd give him a hug because you know he's grieving in another way and I know how it feels to grieve," Heidi Coffee said.

Gavin Coffee spent a lot of time at the Calvary Chapel in Mountlake Terrace. He worked as a children's minister at the church.

Coffee devoted his life to his family and his faith, and through his work touched so many people, in so many ways.

And that, say those who knew him best, will be his legacy.

"It's his compassion and willingness to share his time with those who need help," one said at the service.

He called the memorial the happiest and saddest day he could ever remember.

It was happy because so many came out to celebrate Gavin Coffee's life, but sad because Gavin couldn't be there to share it with them.

Gavin leaves behind a wife and four children with a fifth child on the way due in December.