Memories of John

Shared Memories

"I remember John as a kind, smart, encouraging friend and the top tier, best member of the purple rain Halo Reach clan! Lots of fun nights spent in Zach's basement just laughing non stop. " - John

"It has been so long since I've seen him. His smile still hangs with me. He was the first person I can think of (in elementary school no less) in my life who was his own person. He wasn't a group or a stereotype. He was intimidating to me because he simply seemed so outwardly comfortable with himself and what he enjoyed. I am sure that he struggled, but he gave me an early example, likely without knowing, that i could be myself. Here's to afternoons of roller coaster tycoon and micro machines. Glad to have had him in my life. Sincerest condolences on your family's loss. Best to you all. " - Matthew

"John was one of the most intelligent, passionate, and thoughtful people I’ve ever met. I’ll always cherish the memories we had going out for drives while listening to music, grilling, throwing darts, playing halo, and all the great times we had growing up. John always had a lot of things he took a strong interest in. Whether it was guitar, Joe Rogan podcasts, learning about storm chasing, or anything going on in the world. Seeing the level of passion he had for the things he was interested in was infectious, and something I’ll always remember about him. John was such a genuinely great friend, and I’m grateful for all the good memories I had with him." - Zach

"I had known John since middle school, and two things about him have always stood out to me. First, he was an incredibly intelligent person. He would dive head first into a topic and absorb so much in a short amount of time. Whether it was about physics, nutrition, cosmology, fitness, basketball, music, meteorology, theocracy- His curiosity knew no bounds. Second, he was an incredibly kind person. He could make friends with anyone and talk to anyone. He took interest in what people had to say, always taking the time to listen to them. Despite the battles he faced, his intelligence and kindness never wavered. I am the man I am today because of John, and I will never forget him. " - Jon

"I remember one day the spring of our junior year in high school, sitting in class, being sick of school and knowing there was a Twins day game. I was texting around trying to convince someone to go. An hour later John and I were in cheap seats at the Dome. It didn’t take a lot of convincing. I don’t remember who the Twins played, I just remember hanging out with John, watching the game, eating cheap dogs, and reveling in the fact we cut class to catch a game. All in all, just a good day, with a great friend. I have many more memories from being a friend of John’s over the years; it saddens me there is no longer the opportunity for more. John, I’ll miss you bud." - Cassidy

"I remember John's fundamental decency. I was always happy to see John--as a kid, a high schooler, and an adult--because he met people with openness, on their own terms. I was fortunate to have him in my life to learn from." - Mark

"I will miss you Very Much my Friend" - Lisa