Classmates remember
The following thoughts are from Daniel's classmates. Daniel didn't talk a lot to me about his school
life, and since he was shy, I was always concerned about how he got along with others. 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 my eyes out.
-- Daniel's Dad
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 word)
- 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.
- He was always smiling, even at strangers.
- He was always there when you needed him.
- 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 was always sweet, no matter what.
- 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.
- I believe in the power of God and believe he'll get you through this.
- 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.
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.
- I'm glad that you are out of pain and with God now. I hope to see you again someday.
- 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!
