Joseph Baena is paying tribute.
Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s son, whose mom is the Terminator star’s former housekeeper Mildred Baena, expressed his grief over the recent death of his nephew Vicente.
“It’s been a week since my nephew, Vicente, left us,” Joseph, 27, wrote in the caption of a March 26 Instagram post featuring a series of photos with his nephew, including at Dancing With the Stars and at Vicente’s high school graduation. “It’s been the most difficult and confusing week of my family’s life.”
He continued, “All I can think about is what a kind, funny, caring and smart kid he is and how much we all love him. We miss him so much and still can’t believe this is all real.”
The fitness influencer, who is the half-brother of Arnold’s other children Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt, 35, Christina Schwarzenegger, 33, Patrick Schwarzenegger, 31, and Christopher Schwarzenegger, 27, with ex-wife Maria Schriver—went on to detail the complicated emotions that arise after losing a loved one so suddenly.
“I can’t help but be frustrated, mad, confused and sad for this tragic event,” Joseph—who also has an older sister on his mom’s side, Jackie Rozo—wrote. “But I also think about how we never truly know what weight a person carries or what battles they struggle with.”
The 27-year-old went on to share a message of support for followers going through a challenging time.
“As I mourn with my family I pray that all of you that are struggling, that are hurting and that are tired, may find the strength to be kind to yourself,” Joseph said. “To find the help that you need. To know that your life is worth living. To know that even if you may not feel it right now, know that you are loved.”
He ended his post by directly addressing his late nephew, writing, “We miss you Vicente. Rest in peace.”
Following his heartbreaking message, several members of the Dancing With the Stars family shared their support—including his fellow season 31 contestants Selma Blair and Shangela. “I am so sorry to hear this,” the Cruel Intentions actress wrote in the comments. “May his memory be a blessing.”
The RuPaul’s Drag Race alum added, “Sending u love. I am so sorry to hear about this loss. I’ll be praying for u and all your family Joe. So very sorry.”
Meanwhile, Joseph’s girlfriend Mel Randel also shared a message mourning Vicente while also reflecting on the memories she and Joseph shared with him.
“It’s been a week since Joe’s nephew, Vicente passed away,” the Dutch model wrote on her Instagram Story. “He just graduated high school.”
She added, “His soul was pure. We miss him and we miss the memories we’ll never get to make with him. We will carry his spirit with us forever.”
