Rachel D'Avino, age 29

picture from People magazine

 

Information from Huffington post, Connecticut community foundation, memorial page, obituary

Rachel was born on July 17, 1983, a 2001 graduate of Nonnewaug High School, Rachel went on to receive her bachelor's degree from the University of Hartford, her master's degree from Post University, and was working towards her doctorate degree from University of St. Joseph of Hartford.

Rachel completed her final requirements to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Her presence and tremendous smile brightened any room she entered. Rachel loved animals, cooking, baking, photography and karate. She was an adoring big sister who cherished her two younger siblings like they were her own children.

Her passion, however, was her occupation as a behavioral therapist working with children within the autism spectrum. She had worked in various positions throughout her career providing behavioral therapy to children, with hopes of helping them develop into happy and healthy adults. She integrated these children into her daily life, often taking them into her home, hosting holidays and crafting parties for them. She taught them and treated them like family. Her maternal nature, understanding, and sense of patience with the learning disabled were truly gifts she possessed. Ultimately, it is these gifts that would have given Rachel a level of understanding and forgiveness during this time of crisis that many others wouldn't have.

Rachel's boyfriend had just asked her parents for their blessing to marry. He had planned on proposing on Christmas Eve.

 

http://www.usj.edu/news/in-honor.html

 

http://www.conncf.org/cart/viewProduct.cfm?productID=2029

 

http://rachelmariedavino.com/

 

On November 1st, I will send a letter of thanks to the specialist that worked with my son throughout elementary school.



Anne Marie Murphy, age 52

picture from People magazine

 

Information from Huffington post, obituary,

 

 

 She was born July 25, 1960 in Mount Kisco, NY, the daughter of Dr. Hugh and Alice McGowan of Katonah and graduated from St. Mary's School in Katonah, John F. Kennedy H.S. in Somers, NY and Southern CT State University with an MS degree in Education. Anne was employed by the Newtown Board of Education as a Teacher at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. She will be remembered for her love of the Arts, walks in the outdoors and most importantly: her family. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161791026#sthash.wiyigZaC.dpuf

 

 

School aide, art teacher, special education teacher. She was one of 7 and had 4 children herself. Loved art and painted a mural. Every Memorial day she would return to Katonah, NY to watch her Dad march in the parade. Her final act was to embrace Dylan Hockley and other students. Dylan loved his teacher so much he kept a picture of her on his refrigerator.

 

 

http://www.sandyhookpromise.org/anne_marie_murphy 

 

On November 1st, I will take a walk in the outdoors with my family in her Mrs. Murphy's memory.



Lauren Rousseau, age 30

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post, People, obituary, ctpost,

 

Lauren was known for her exuberance, her love of family and of children, her friendliness, kindness and loyalty, and her ever-present smile. "If she didn't have a smile on her face, she was trying to make someone else feel like smiling," a longtime friend said. Lauren was a graduate of Danbury High School, where her greatest joys were singing and dancing in the yearly musical and teaching in the school-based nursery school. She graduated from the University of Connecticut at Storrs in 2004 with a degree in English and psychology, and she earned a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Bridgeport. She did her yearlong teaching internship at Robert Avenue School, some of it in the same classroom where she had been a first-grader. She did her student teaching at John Pettibone School in New Milford, and later worked as a substitute teacher in Danbury, New Milford and Newtown. She was hired as a permanent substitute teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary only weeks before her death. From her college years on she worked in catering at Fox Hill Inn in Brookfield, and the past few years she also worked at the Starbucks coffee shop in Danbury. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161797784#sthash.fQeBessS.dpuf

 

Friends describe her as an angel. Always wanted to be a teacher since she was little. Loved the students..."her kids".  Had a cat named Laila. Liked to take the train to Manhattan to see Broadway shows. Last year of her life was the happiest.

 

http://www.bridgeport.edu/finaid/graduate/scholarships/lauren-rousseau-memorial-scholarship/

 

On November 1st, I will drink a Starbucks coffee in Lauren Rousseau's memory.



Mary Sherlach, age 56

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from People, Huffington post, CNN,

 

 

Sherlach, 56, was an expert in psychology, having earned her undergraduate degree in that subject at SUNY Cortland and a master's degree at Southern Connecticut State University. Before becoming a school psychologist, she worked as a rehabilitation assistant at a psychiatric facility, at a group home for disabled adults and as a community mental health placement specialist. Her experience in education included stints in the Redding, North Haven and New Haven public school systems before landing at Sandy Hook Elementary in 1994. During her time in Newtown, Sherlach kept busy as a member of numerous groups such as the district conflict resolution committee, safe school climate committee, crisis intervention team and student instructional team. From her Facebook page:

"My husband Bill and I have been married 31 years and are the proud parents of two beautiful daughters, ages 25 and 28," she said. One a chorus teacher, the other getting her PhD in chemistry.

Sherlach listed her interests as gardening, reading and going to the theater. She and her husband lived in Trumbull, Connecticut, and "enjoy traveling and spending time at our lake home" in upstate New York's Finger Lakes region. 

 

She was looking towards retirement and she loved to sit on her front porch on her white wicker loveseat. She was a great neighbor. She was also a Miami Dolphins fan.

http://www.fccfoundation.org/cm/Sandy%20Hook%20School.html

 

On November 1st, I will know how the Dolphins did the night before... and on November 11, I will watch and root for the Dolphins in the Monday Night Football game in memory of Mary Sherlach.

Victoria Soto, age 27

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post, obituary, NY Times, Wikipedia, Eastern Connecticut State University,

 

 

 Born In Bridgeport on November 4 1985, she was a lifelong Stratford resident. Vicki was a graduate of Stratford High School Class of 2003, and Eastern Connecticut State University, where she graduated with high honors, earning degrees in both Education and History. She was currently attending Southern Connecticut State University, to complete her Master's Degree. Vicki was in her fifth year of teaching at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. Teaching was her passion, following in the footsteps of her beloved Aunt Debbie, and her dream since she was three years old. Molding young minds was her priority, but being the "fun" teacher, was what she was all about. The children she taught at Sandy Hook Elementary were a huge part of her life. Vicki was equally passionate about her family, which was the most important part of her life, especially her siblings, sisters, Jillian whom she loved unconditionally, and Carlee in whom she instilled the importance of higher education and her brother Carlos Matthew who looked up to his big sister with pride. She was not only a role model to her sisters and brother, but to everyone she met. She was an amazing young woman, who died a hero. Some of her favorite things include: Flamingo's, of which you can never have to many, (whenever we saw one, we thought of her), the New York Yankees #11, ... Vicki also leaves behind her loving dog Roxie, who waited for her to come home everyday, and is still waiting, lost without her. Her extended family was also a huge part of her life. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161773156#sthash.Gr5QD4Ds.dpuf

 

      

...Ms. Soto was remembered as a young woman with long brown hair, captivating blue eyes and “an infectious laugh,” one who had a passion for gathering her extended family together whenever she could and making relatives laugh with sometimes zany impulsive gestures.  They recalled how Ms. Soto, on a whim, insisted that all of her cousins and siblings buy cheap sunglasses before a trip to a Six Flags amusement park, how she woke her lovesick college roommate with “Kiss the Girl” from the Disney film “The Little Mermaid.”... and seemed to live for Christmas and the chance to ornament a tree that she insisted on choosing, and to be surrounded by her family.  She was the funniest, goofiest person.... always up for anything.When she hugged you,” she said, “she put her whole heart and soul into every hug she gave.” Ms. Soto’s aunt, Debbie Cronk, a teacher who was her professional inspiration, remembered how exuberant Ms. Soto was when she called five years ago to say she had secured a job at Sandy Hook Elementary. But Ms. Cronk also remembered her mischievous side, how as a little girl Ms. Soto loved feeding the ducks near her grandmother’s house, though not as much as eating the bread herself. Ms. Schiavone, her best friend, recalled Ms. Soto’s devotion to the profession — spending every evening working on lesson plans and designing poster boards — and the extra mile she went for her students. 

 

 

http://www.easternct.edu/advancement/victoria_soto.html

 

 

On November 1st, we shall have a purple flamingo in attendance at the fire in memory of Vickie Soto.

 



Nancy Lanza, age 52

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post, People magazine, NYDaily News, NPR

 

Grew up in Kingston NH. Married her sweetheart in 1981. Became a stockbroker and her husband was an executive. Family moved to Newtown CT. and the Lanzas had 2 sons. Over time became a broken family leading to a divorce in 2009. With the divorce settlement, Nancy wouldn't need to work again. Oldest son had graduated college, moved to NY and held a respectable job. Youngest son had a learning disability, was very socially awkward, and emotionally disturbed. Nancy fought with school system and finally took youngest out and homeschooled him. Youngest received his GED but never had a job and lived at home with his mother. Nancy was described as warm, open, gregarious, friendly, and generous. Liked Craft Beer, frequenting a bar/restaurant called My Place. Her other hobbies were playing Bunco with the neighborhood ladies, gardening, target shooting, game hunting, and gun collecting. She and her youngest would often go to the shooting range together. Since the divorce, Nancy's friends had noted two fears had developed in Nancy's life: the direction the country was going because of the economy, and the fear that she was losing her youngest son - that she was not connecting with him. Nancy never got out of bed Friday morning.

 

My Place has dedicated a bar stool in Nancy Lanza's name.

 

www.nami.org

 

http://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/resources/mental-health-hotline-numbers-and-referral-resources/#Hotline

 

 

On November 1st, I will discuss the Red Sox World Series Win with my children in memory of Nancy.

 

 



Charlotte Bacon, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

Information from Huffington post, Newtown Kindness, obituary

 

 

Charlotte was an extraordinarily gifted six year old who filled her family each day with joy and love. The family will forever remember her beautiful smile, her energy for life, and the unique way she expressed her individuality, usually with the color pink. Charlotte never met an animal she didn’t love and since the age of two wanted to be a veterinarian. She enjoyed practicing Tae Kwon Do weekly with her dad and brother where she relished kicking and throwing punches! She also loved the song "Home" by Phillip Phillips. Was also a Daisy Girl Scout. Had just gotten a special pink dress and pink boots she was going to wear on Christmas - couldn't wait to show her friends - she wore that on Friday, her last day at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

 

 

Birthday: February 22

 

http://www.newtownkindness.org/charlotte-bacon-act-of-kindness-award/

 

On November 1st, I will play "Home" by Phillip Phillips for Charlotte



Daniel Barden, age 7

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post, newtimes, obituary,

 

Daniel was the light of his family's life. Adored and admired by all, Daniel touched the lives of all who knew him with his warmth, inspiring spirit of kindness and generosity, outgoing and affectionate nature, and his imaginative play. Daniel loved spending time with his family, both immediate and extended, riding waves at the beach, playing the drums in a band with his brother James and sister Natalie, foosball, reading, and making s'mores around the bonfire with his cousins at his Papa's house in Smallwood, NY. Daniel was on the Newtown soccer team and the Newtown Torpedoes swim team. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161773478#sthash.yetypdpr.dpuf

 

Fearless in the pursuit of happiness and life. A very special boy. Always smiling, unfailingly polite, incredibly affectionate, fair, and thoughtful towards others. Imaginative, intelligent, articulate. "Daniel the Maniel". Wholesome and innocent.

 

One Smile At a Time.

 

http://www.whatwoulddanieldo.com/

www.facebook.com/WhatWouldDanielDo


https://www.facebook.com/TheSandyGroundWhereAngelsPlay?directed_target_id=0

On November 1st, I will take orders for WWDD bracelets in Daniel Barden's memory.

Jack Pinto, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington Post, NJ.com, newstimes.com

 

Jack was an avid participant in a wide variety of activities including flag football, baseball, basketball, wrestling, and snow skiing. Jack was an incredibly loving and vivacious young boy, appreciated by all who knew him for his lively and giving spirit and steely determination. In life and in death, Jack will forever be remembered for the immeasurable joy he brought to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, a joy whose wide reach belied his six short years - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161771440#sthash.lNN8Dfou.dpuf

 

Jack's wide smile would light up a room. Jack was a dedicated wrestler on a travel team and missed his tournament on Sunday - the coach gave the family Jack's singlet in remembrance. Jack was also a huge NY Giant's fan and an avid fan of Victor Cruz wearing his #80 jersey to his final resting place.

 

 

On November 1st, I will remember Jack by wearing NY Giants logo on my hand like it is on his cheek. And on November 17 and 24 I will watch the Giants, pull for Victor Cruz, and cheer for Jack. 

Noah Pozner, age 6

picture from People Magazine

 

 

Information from eulogy and Huffington post

 

Noah and his family were members of the Orthodox Synagogue Temple Adath Israel.  Noah loved to read and to figure out how things worked mechanically. Noah is survived by his twin sister and best friend, Arielle,who was assigned to a different classroom at Sandy Hook Elementary School. He is described as a bright, precocious, sweet, adorable kid.
 

From mother, Veronique Pozner:
Noah, my little man. I will miss your forceful and purposeful little steps stomping through our house. I will miss your perpetual smile, the twinkle in your dark blue eyes, framed by eyelashes that would be the envy of any lady in this room. Most of all, I will miss your visions of your future. You wanted to be a doctor, a soldier, a taco factory manager. It was your favorite food, and no doubt you wanted to ensure that the world kept producing tacos. You were a little boy whose life force had all the gravitational pull of a celestial body. You were light and love, mischief and pranks. You adored your family with every fiber of your 6-year-old being.... A little maverick, who didn't always want to do his schoolwork or clean up his toys, when practicing his ninja moves or Super Mario on the Wii seemed far more important...Noah, you will not pass through this way again. I can only believe that you were planted on Earth to bloom in heaven. Take flight, my boy. Soar. You now have the wings you always wanted... Your melody will linger in our hearts forever.
___
From uncle, Alexis Haller, of Woodinville, Wash.:
...Noah was a wonderful son and a loving brother. He was kind, caring, smart, funny, and sometimes even a little mischievous. He liked to tell his sisters that he worked in a taco factory; when they asked him how he got to work, he would give them a funny look as if to say he knew something that they didn't. Noah was a little kid. He loved animals, video games and Mario Brothers. He was already a very good reader, and had just bought a Ninjago book at a book fair that he was really excited about reading...What we can do is carry Noah within us, always. We can remember the joy he brought to us. We can hold his memory close to our hearts. We can treasure him forever. And all of us, including the family, the community, the country and the world, can honor Noah by loving each other and taking care of each other.* That's what Noah would have wanted.

www.noahpozner.org

I will honor Noah on November 1st with Tacos and *taking care of and loving my kids. 

Jessica Rekos, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post, People magazine, obituary, and memorial site.

 

 

Jessica loved horses and everything equestrian. Watched horse movies, read horse books, drew horse pictures, wrote horse stories. She was promised her very own horse when she turned 10. Jessica started riding in 2011 on a pony named "Waffles". In her first competition, she won a blue ribbon. Jessica and Waffles were going to go far. Jessica asked for cowgirl boots and a cowgirl hat for Christmas. Jessica had two younger brothers and she was the "CEO" of the family. Jessica, first born in the family, "was our rock," the parents said. "She had an answer for everything, she didn't miss a trick, and she outsmarted us every time." A thoughtful planner, she was "our little CEO." - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/ns/obituary.aspx?pid=161726367#sthash.mquBo45k.dpuf

 

PONY RIDES FOR JESSICA is devoted to keeping Jessica's love of horses and riding alive by working closely with her parents to give underprivileged children two special gifts, the relationship between horse and rider and the relationship between student and instructor.

 

 

http://ponyridesforjessica.org/

 

 

On November1st, I will have the cowboy boots that my son received from Santa when he was 5 out by the fire with us in Jessica Rekos' memory.

 

On May 10th, I will do something for Pony Rides for Jessica.

Caroline Previdi, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

 

Information from Huffington post and Caroline's Memorial site.

 

"Silly Caroline" Contagious smile. Loves to draw and dance. Member of St. Rose of Lima Church. Always helping other children. In first grade, she would help the kindergartner get on the bus so he wouldn't be scared. Caroline was a bright-eyed, cheerful, joyful little girl. She found delight in the smallest things in life and often exclaimed things like,"Isn't that WONDERFUL?".  She had a sheer enthusiasm and zest for life.  She cared deeply for others.  When Caroline was five, just before Christmas, she brought her piggy bank to her parents.  She told them she was going to donate all of her money to their church.  She wanted to make sure that every child had a present under the tree on Christmas morning. Caroline was the friend who wanted to "make sure everyone was ok." She was an encourager, a helper.  She would offer a hug or hold a hand.  Her joy came from within, and she wanted to share it. When talking about her family, or herself, she would tell people,"We are not lucky.  We are blessed! "She was exceptionally energetic and embraced new activities in the same exuberant manner that she approached life.  Swim team.  Girl Scouts. Gymnastics. Soccer. She wanted to do it all.  At home, she could usually be found coloring or drawing. Other times, she was busy twirling, dancing, or singing.  From all of her drawing and twirling emerged Caroline's two true passions: art and dance. She danced through this life with enthusiasm and compassion.

Caroline's parents want to continue Caroline's legacy by doing what was so important to her--helping other children. They established the Caroline Previdi Foundation to share Caroline's giving and caring spirit and to offer other children an opportunity to find joy in an activity they love.

 

 

http://carolineprevidifoundation.org/

 

 

On November 1st, I will remember Caroline by making sure my own daughter is signed up for the extra curricular activity of her choosing. And during our celebration, I am sure to use her line in her name, "Isn't that WONDERFUL?"

Avielle Richman, age 6

picture from People magazine

From the Avielle Richman foundation website:

Avielle Rose Richman was born in San Diego, California on October 17^th, 2006 into a family of story tellers. With a spitfire personality, and a love of laughter, Avielle was rarely without a giant grin, and was often barefoot. Like her parents, she loved stories and demanded them as she was falling asleep, taking a bath, riding in the car, and on every walk she took. She already understood that her life — her growing up — was going to be a series of stories. Avielle had a grand spirit of adventure and was willing to bravely try new things...when the family moved to Newtown, Connecticut in late January of 2011, Avielle was excited by the prospect of living where she could play in the snow, and quickly became a fearless sledder. She loved Barbies as much as superheroes, and would readily switch between fairy and pixie play and her superhero persona, Bombs Galore – all with her faithful sidekick, super-dog Max, of course. She had no problem transitioning from playing with her dolls to practicing archery in the yard, and was happy to go from a kung fu workout with dad to a cooking lesson with mom. Avielle loved music and would sing everything. When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, Avielle would reply that she wanted to be an artist… and a spy…oh, and a fairy princess, and a writer. Her open-minded willingness to try new things made for a long list of hobbies...soccer... painting and sketching, hiking, fishing, and — perhaps most of all — riding horses and swimming. Avielle’s sense of wonder, inherent in all children, drove her to love the magic of fireflies and all things that glowed. Having a fairly unique name, Avielle had grown comfortable helping people pronounce it. She’d say “Ah-Vee-Elle,” and proudly spell it out “A-V-I-E-L-L-E.” Avielle also loved to name things and, without hesitation, named her beta fish Khaihawana Punk. The large sugar maples next to her house? Efford and Maeve. And the gargoyles perched above the patio door, Galen and Grolig. She was always amazed when two people shared the same name.

 

 

Avie's parents have set up a foundation in memory of their spitfire daughter. The mission of the foundation is "preventing violence through research and community education".

 

http://www.aviellefoundation.org/

 

I will remember Avie on November 1st by naming the fire that night "Avielle"

 

I will also spread the word of her foundation and mission throughout the Hopkins community.

 



Emilie Parker, age 6

picture given to AP from Parker family found on Legacy.com

 

Information from: huffington post, ABC, Salt Lake Tribune, and memorial site.

 

Emilie was the oldest sister, teaching her 4 and 3 year old sisters everything she could. When they were upset, they would go to Emilie for comfort. Emilie was very thoughtful of other's feelings, frequently making cards for them to feel better. She had recently slipped a special card in to her Grandfather's casket when he was unexpectedly taken from her life. Emilie's personality lit up a room. "I'm Emilie, with an 'ie' because my daddy is Robbie with an 'ie,' " she often said. Emilie expressed herself continuously through her artwork. At the age of 3 her parents realized how important art work and creativity was to their daughter. Emilie would constantly gather materials to use in future crafts and art work. She would stay up past her bedtime quietly in her room with the light on, drawing, creating. Once her father went up for the second night in a row to persuade his oldest daughter to stop drawing and go to sleep. She said,  “Dad, I wasn’t drawing, but I have so many ideas in my head I can’t get out, so I am writing a list of things I need to draw so I won’t forget.” She dreamed of opening an art gallery when she grew up... she would work on her works in the back and her Mom would run the cash register in the front.

 

Emilie's parents have set up a Memorial fund to provide art programs to children and in schools.

 

 

http://emilieparkerfund.com

 

 

I will paint a picture with my daughter and set up her art area in the basement on November 1st.

On May 12, 2014 I will make a contribution to the Emilie Parker Fund

 





Grace McDonnell, age 7

picture from People magazine

 

Information obtained from several sources: irishcentral.com, andersoncooper 360, obituary and death notice, mvgazette.com, Huffington post.

 

Gracie was the love and the light of her family. "Utterly adorable", just a beautiful little girl... like a "little doll". Beautiful golden hair with bright blue eyes. Loved to wear bows in her hair, especially bubble gum pink, her favorite color. Loved to play dress up, soccer, gymnastics. Particularly fond of painting and art projects. Frequent visitor to Martha's Vineyard. Loved the beach, seagulls, lighthouses... and Peace. Her mother's last memory of her daughter was blowing her kisses as the school bus pulled away. Later she found where her daughter had drawn with her finger on the glass in the bathroom a Peace Sign with "Gracie loves Mommy". President Obama is now the proud owner of a Grace McDonnell original painting of a green owl.

 

"You are not only my daughter, you are my best friend, my soulmate, my teacher of life, love and peace," McDonnell read from the last entry she had made in her daughter's journal.
Her husband, Christopher McDonnell, added this in closing: "The presence of seashells brings the message that every passing life brings something beautiful to the world."

I will wear a pink ribbon in my hair (very unlike me...) in honor of Gracie on November 1st.
I will also create something out of shells to remember this beautiful child.  

James Mattioli, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

The following is a hodge podge of information I have read about this energetic, enthusiastic little guy in his obituary and the Huffington Post, People, and Connecticut Post

 

James Mattioli, fondly called "J", couldn't wait to do everything. He had an infectious enthusiasm. First to wake up. Had a "1,000 watt smile", sang at the top of his lungs, and wanted to be on stage, "How old do you have to be to be on stage?". Born 4 weeks early because he was "hungry" was the joke of the family. Couldn't wait to eat... loved hamburgers, Dad's omelets with bacon, and Mom's French toast..."How old do you have to be to buy a foot long?" Spiked hair with gel, and always wore shorts and a Tee shirt. Loved doing things with Dad and cuddling with Mom. Energetic - biking, baseball, basketball, hockey, swimming, diving. Excelled in math... He was a 'numbers' guy, coming up with insights beyond his years to explain the relationship between numbers and unique ways of figuring out the answer when adding or subtracting. He loved the concept of 'googleplex' which he learned from his good friend. Especially thoughtful and considerate - the first to welcome guests with a hug. Loved and admired his older sister Anna - wanted to do everything she could do - best friends - she challenged him to read more.

 

Birthday March 22, 2006   On November 1st, I will grill a hamburger in James' memory. Mattioli, James Radley "Our Beloved Prince" James Radley Mattioli, age 6 ¾, fondly called 'J' passed away on December 14, 2012 in his classroom at Sandy Hook Elementary School. An energetic, loving friend to all, James loved baseball, basketball, swimming, arm wrestling and playing games on the iPad (especially the lawn mowing game). He loved to wear shorts and t-shirts in any weather, and grab the gel to spike his hair. He would often sing at the top of his lungs and once asked, "How old do I have to be to sing on a stage?" James loved to dive off the diving board at the Treadwell Pool, swim like a fish in both of his...



Ana Grace Marquez-Greene, age 6

picture from People magazine

 



 

From People and Huffington Post: Ana was born to a musical family. Her Dad is a Jazz saxophonist and full-time Jazz faculty. The family had been living in Canada until earlier in 2012 moving back to Connecticut, Dad's original home. Family calls Ana their "Sweetie Girl". She loved to sing and dance.

 

And from Ana Grace Marquez-Greene's Memorial website and foundation:

 

Just one glimpse of her face and you can feel the joy that radiated from this beautiful six year-old. This is how her dad, a renowned jazz saxophonist, describes his precious daughter: “Ana’s love for singing was evident before she was even able to talk. In a musical family, her gift for melody, pitch and rhythm stood out remarkably. And she never walked anywhere — her mode of transportation was dance. She danced from room to room and place to place. She danced to all the music she heard, whether in the air or in her head. Ana loved her God, loved to read the Bible and loved to sing and dance as acts of worship. We ask that you pray for the legions of people who are left behind to cherish memories of her.”

 

 

The Ana Grace Project of the Klingberg Family Center will launch on December 2, 2013 with the mission of:

 

Promoting love, connection, and community for every child and family.

 

 

Read more about it here:

 

http://anagraceproject.org/

 

 

I will dance on November 1st in honor of Ana Grace. And on April 4, 2014, I will make a contribution to the Ana Grace Project in her honor. 

Jesse Lewis, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

A neighbor recalled through the Huffington Post that Jesse was a real character. He could turn a frown upside down. Asking "What if?" Imaginative and boisterous. Playing with his older brother J.T. outside all the time. Loved the horses in the neighborhood and all of the animals. Rambunctious and very perceptive of other's emotions. Incredible light...bright...full of love...lived life with vigor and passion...continually adventurous...brave and true...a force that would light up the room.

 

And from Jesse's foundation website, a message from his mother about the day Jesse was unable to return home from school...

 

On the morning of December 14th, 2012, Jesse McCord Lewis walked out of his house and down the driveway towards his father who was waiting to drive him to school. Along the way, Jesse stopped to write a message with his finger in the frost of his mother’s car door: “I love you.” Jesse bravely tried to lead other friends to safety that morning. Like a "little soldier"....Just days before, Jesse had written 3 words on a chalkboard at home "Nurturing, Healing, Love" 

 

Jesse's mother has since written a book about forgiving and love. She has also set up a foundation to teach others how to choose love over anger.

http://www.jesselewischooselove.org/

I will wear a green ribbon in honor of Jesse on Novemeber 1 and December 14. I will wear green on June 30th, Jesse's birthday. And I will read Scarlett's book "Nurturing, Healing, Love" 

 



Josephine Gay, age 7

picture from NBC

 

Joey turned 7 three days before becoming an angel and was looking forward to celebrating at her birthday party with many of her friends the next day (many of these friends became angels too). Joey was a very special person and she inspired everyone she met. Joey was autistic and severely apraxic. She could not speak, yet she touched the lives of so many around her: teachers, therapists, friends, neighbors, all loved and cherished her. Joey was social and affectionate; she smiled, she loved hugs, and she even had a wonderful sense of humor. Her spirit was indomitable. She participated in rigorous therapy and treatment on a daily basis without complaint. She loved to play with her Barbie dolls, iPad, and computer, swim, swing, and be anywhere her sisters were.

Josephine loved the color purple. Born in Maryland, she grew up in a family of Ravens fans and developed an affinity for all things purple. She rarely left the house without wearing something purple. After her passing, many friends who visited wore purple clothing to honor her. Her family has honored her inspiring and generous spirit by establishing Joey’s Fund in her name through the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism. The proceeds of this fund will help families raising autistic children.

How to donate:
Online: Doug Flutie Foundation

On the donation page please select “in Memory of” and type “Joey’s Fund” in the box for “acknowledgement/address and comments,”

By Mail:
Send checks to:
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism
Specify “In Memory of Josephine Gay” on the check.
Mailing address:
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism
PO Box 767
Framingham, MA 01701

Information obtained from a statement from Bob and Michele Gay (Joey's parents) to NBC Connecticut.


I will remember Josephine by wearing purple on November 1st, December 11th and 14th.
Next summer I will set up a Lemonade stand (which I read Joey liked to do too) and the proceeds I will give to the foundation above.  

 

 



Chase Kowalski, age 7

picture from People magazine

 

Chase was an amazing son, brother, and grandson who's heart was only filled with love for all the people he touched. He was a fun loving energetic boy that had a true love of life. He completed his first triathlon at the age of six and ran in many community road races. Chase had a deep love for the game of baseball and enjoyed practicing with his father and team mates. Joining the cub scouts was just one of his many interests. He could often be found in the yard playing ball, riding his bike or quad. Chase was always excited to attend the kids work shop at the Trumbull Home Depot. He was greatly loved by his family. He joins his maternal Uncle and Grandfather, his paternal great grandmother and grandmother in a much better place. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newstimes/obituary.aspx?pid=161772845#sthash.fyBWhAXk.dpuf

 

http://chasekowalskifund.com/

 

I will remember Chase by riding my bike on November 1st.

And if there is a 2014 challenge for Race 4 Chase I will be a member.



Olivia Engel, age 6

picture from People magazine

Olivia brought immediate joy to all those around her with her ever-present smile and adorably infectious giggle. Olivia's zest for life began early. She quickly developed an affinity for all things fun. On any given afternoon, one could just as easily find Olivia twirling in a pink tutu in dance class, developing her swing on the tennis court, kicking the winning soccer goal, drawing, painting and gluing things in art class, or honing her inner songstress in her community musical theater class. 

As Olivia continued to grow, she developed a love and affinity for math and reading, arts and crafts, and her parish. Leading the family's Grace each evening were sources of great pride for Olivia, as was being a big sister. 

 

Birthday: July 18

NY Yankee fan

Daisy Girl Scout

Contributions in Olivia's honor can be directed to the Newtown Park and Bark.

Above is condensed information obtained from

http://oliviaengel.org/

 

Olivia was to be an angel in the Live Nativity at her church. Instead she became a real angel.

 

I will remember Olivia by saying grace on November 1st and buying Girl Scout cookies from a Daisy Girl Scout.

http://www.newtownparkandbark.org/donate.html
 

I will also remember Olivia by contributing to the Newtown Park and Bark on Olivia's birthday and will upload a picture of Tanner Dog.

 



Dylan Hockley, age 6

picture from People magazine

 

The Hockley family had recently moved from a quiet street in Southern England to Newtown, Connecticut. Dylan loved to play with his older brother Jake outside. The Hockleys felt happy and comfortable in their new home and neighborhood. Dylan had an autistic spectrum disorder which was characterized by repetitive movement. There are different types of repetitive movement in autism, and Dylan's was flapping his arms, especially when excited. When asked once why he flapped his arms he responded "because I am a beautiful butterfly." Dylan was very much supported at Sandy Hook Elementary School and he had made much progress. Dylan's family has set up a fund to support others with autism. Please visit his Memorial Site through the link below

 

 

http://dylanhockley.com/donate

 

 

I have remembered Dylan by making a donation to Dylan's Wings of Change.

Catherine Violet Hubbard, age 6

 

picture from People magazine.

 

She had a "constant smile".  Red hair, dimples. Left behind her 8 year old brother. Catherine loved nature, bugs, and animals of all kinds. Their family dog, Sammy of 14 years suffered from arthritis. Catherine would get underneath of Sammy and help her up and help her around. One week after Catherine passed, Sammy took ill and needed to be put to sleep. When Mom asked her brother if he would like to say anything to Sammy beforehand, he got down on the ground in Sammy's face and said "Say Hi to Catherine for me." Catherine dreamed of running an animal shelter and even made her own business cards. The Hubbard family is making that dream come true. Please see The Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Center by clicking on the link below.

 

http://www.theanimalcenter.org/

 

I have remembered Catherine by becoming a friend of her Animal Center.

 

Dawn Hochsprung, age 47

picture from People magazine.

Principal of Sandy Hook Elementary School. Also a graduate student working on her doctoral degree on weekends. Mother of 5 daughters. Devoted to the children. Her passions: work and family. Would hold early morning meetings at the Sandy Hook Diner. Had a "knock you out smile."

I will honor Dawn by volunteering at my daughter's elementary school.

Allison Wyatt Age 6

picture from Huffington post and People Magazine

In the summer, she was always outside, a neighbor tells the Connecticut Post. She liked to garden; it was a favorite activity to do with her mother. Although she was a shy, quiet girl, recalls a former teacher to the local New Haven Register, "she would smile at things. If a kid did something funny, she'd be laughing." From People Magazine
Allison Wyatt's parents say their little girl made their home look like an art studio. They told NBC that the 6-year-old wanted to be an artist and would tape her work on walls all around the house. Wyatt "loved to laugh" and came up "with observations that more than once had us crying with laughter," her family wrote in a statement. The girl is also remembered for "random acts of kindness -- once even offering snacks to a complete stranger on a plane." From Huffington Post
Allison Wyatt "loved to laugh and was developing her own wonderful sense of humor,” her family wrote in a statement obtained by NBC. The Wyatts have established two funds in Allison’s memory –- the fund set up in her name will support charities in her honor and the second will provide Allison's younger sister with ongoing support and help pay for her college education. Donations payable to "Ben Wyatt as Custodian" can be mailed to Steve DeMartino, c/o TransAct Technologies Inc., One Hamden Center, 2319 Whitney Avenue, Suite 3B, Hamden, CT 06518. From Huffington Post

I will be remembering Allison by planting flowers and sending a donation to her fund.

What is this site for?

From October 1st through October 30th, I want to remember the victims. And NOT the killers. This is a place where the innocence of the victim's lives will be remembered and honored. There will be no mention of the killer. The killer's name will not appear the manner in which the victim's died may not be discussed. And this is NOT the place for political beliefs, policy debate, or personal opinion about how these victims died. This is a site, where for 30 days before Halloween, we honor the victims. On Halloween, we scare away evil. On November 1st, we "Dance with the Dead", and celebrate the victim's lives on the Day Of The Dead.

It is already October 18th and I have not started. But I am not going to beat myself up for that. I start now. A post per victim. And we will start in Connecticut.