DEFOREST, Wis. (WKOW) — Family and friends gathered Monday night for a funeral in DeForest to remember 26-year-old Ariel Spillner who was shot and killed in Milwaukee last week.

Loved ones describe Spillner as someone whose kindness and compassion touched everyone around her.

“I’m proud to be her sister,” said Courtney Spillner. “She was such a bright light for everyone.”

Courtney, Ariel’s older sister, and her best friend, Liz Bruchs, said Ariel was known for always making people laugh and bringing out the best in others.

“She’s going to be very, very missed,” Bruchs said. “There’s a big hole in everyone’s hearts.”

Spillner played basketball at DeForest High School and later in college. Bruchs said she was known for her encouragement and humility both on and off the court.

“Even if

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