Reflections from Classmates

The following thoughts are from Daniel’s classmates. Daniel didn’t talk a lot to me about his school life, and since he was so shy, I was always concerned about how he got along with others and made friends. So I was very touched when classmates began sending us testimonies about Daniel. I had trouble typing them up because my vision was constantly blurred from crying.
— Tom

Mrs. Nyhanen’s 5th hour Language Arts

Dan was always nice, and helpful to everybody (these words were repeated throughout).
His intelligence always astounded me. I always thought he would be so successful. He was someone everyone should aspire to be like.
Dan never had a bad attitude and he was nice to everyone.
Dan was always willing to share his ideas with the class and was always finished before everyone.
He always had a smile for everyone (another commonly used description)
Dan was always willing to help me with my math homework.
He was sophisticated beyond his years.
One of the kindest, smartest people I have ever known.
…at our cross country meets, he was never the fastest runner, but he was always smiling. We would cheer for him and he would speed up a little. I admired him for his dedication. I know what it feels like to be, well, less than varsity. It’s hard to be in such a good mood while running races of over 3 miles, but Dan always seemed to excel at that. Whenever I run I know I will feel a piece of him in my heart. My prayers and love are with you.
Dan was one of the sweetest, nicest persons I have ever known.
I never really talked to Dan, but when we would do class presentations I could tell he was a gentle person. I wish I could have gotten to know him. We miss him and remember him as part of our family.
Intellectual conversation in high school is rare. Dan helped make up for that.
Dan was really quiet, but you could see excitement and joy for life on his face.
He had the power and desire to succeed.
He was so innocent.
I have a piece of him in my heart forever. I love ya Dan, you were the greatest.
He would always scarf down his lunch and rush to the library. When I realized that (on April 20) I realized the worst. (Daniel was killed in the library.) That day I lost a brother!
I am honored to have known you.

**Halloween. Daniel is on the far right.**

IMP (Math) Classmates
Remembrances written in Memory of Dan.

I am comforted because I know Dan no longer feels any pain but I am bothered because Dan’s absence is the world’s loss.
I didn’t know you until a few weeks before this happened but you made math easier in those few weeks and you motivated me.
I admired you in so many ways. I wish I could’ve told you how you’ve changed the way I look at life. I’ll never forget the potential you had.
We say that a line goes on forever. I do not know why such a bright line did not go on. I wish I had the chance to know you better.
He was one of the smartest kids I knew.
Though I was not one of your good friends, I know you had a big heart.
Thanks for setting a high standard for us to achieve. We will miss you dearly!