Marine and Iraq War veteran Matthew DeRemer was killed by a drunk driver while riding his motorcycle on New Year’s Eve.

Just hours before his tragic death, DeRemer expressed on Facebook his hopes for 2016 on a photo that read, “We are born in 1 day. We die in 1 day. We can change in 1 day. And we can fall in love in 1 day. Anything can happen in just 1 day.”

Here is DeRemer’s message in full:

Last day of 2015!!!! For me I’ll be meditating through all I do, on this entire year. I’ve lost, I’ve gained, family is closer and tougher than ever before, loved ones lost, and new friends found. There has been many times where I’ve been found on my knees in prayer for hours (relentless) and other times leading a group of people in prayer, my faith (that I love to share) is an everyday awakening (to me) that people, lives, and circumstances can change for the better OVER TIME. I look back at 2015’s huge challenges that I’ve overcome, shared with others, and have once again found myself… To say thank you and BRING ON 2016, much works to be done!
And I really don’t know where I’ll end up tonight but I do know where I windup is where I’m meant to be.

The Marine also wrote an additional comment shortly after posting the status, “Lol this morning has been the most uplifting morning in a long time!”

After his death, DeRemer’s friends started to share his Facebook status in order to celebrate his life. It quickly caught fire, and (so far) has been shared more than 1,000 times. That status has now become a digital memorial for friends and strangers alike to thank DeRemer for his service and send well wishes to his family.

“Wow he ended up where he was meant to be. Time to ‘go home.'” one commenter wrote.

“Rip my brother ride with us all and protect us all we ride you will truly be miss my brother,” another said.

Semper Fi and RIP, Matthew DeRemer.