Name: Sarah
E-Mail: SarahW066@aol.com
AIM:
17:43:28 04/28/03
Comments:
Well babe, I don't know what to say. You and I go way back. I just found out the news on Saturday night. I wish that I would have been able to be there for you to talk to but I wasn't. So now, I wish that I could have been there to say my last goodbyes to you. You have impacted a lot of people. Including myself. I think back to when we used to hang out with everyone back at Franikfort Jr. High. Those were the days. =) I don't know. I just wish that you had someone to talk to so you can let your problems. You were always the fun one, the outgoing one, and the one who could always make someone laugh. There isnt a thought in my mind that recalls you being anything less than that. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends. I have been through this 2 times before, so if anyone needs someone to talk to, please email me. Take care Eric. You are in a better place right now. God will take care of you. Say hello to Steve and Justin for me. They will show you the way up there. But I am sure that you will get around just fine. Just look out for your family and friends, and maybe give them a lil hint that you are looking out for them. They will know. Just remember that you WILL BE REMEMBERED BY EVERYONE. Love always, Sarah
Name: Lauren
E-Mail:
AIM: crazibutiful05
17:38:23 04/28/03
Comments:
Hey Eric
You never really met me, but i was in your lunch. Today at school i realized that the intire lunch table behind mine was empty, and i found out a few seconds later that you used to sit in the seat directly across from me. I wish I would have know you better, b/c everyone i know misses you a lot, and has nothing but good things to say about you. Eric i wish you wold have found an easier way to solve this problem you had. What I dont understand is that you always seemed so happy and full of life, if only you would have talked to someone and got out what you were feeling, then things wouldn't have come to this. If you are reading this, please know that no problem is worth giving up your life for. Eric, you will be missed.
*Peace*
Name: tom oconnor
E-Mail:
AIM: odarsh39
17:34:29 04/28/03
Comments:
i never knew eric but i have heard so many good stories that he is such a great person. my mom had recently said that he told her she was his favorite teacher and she would always be in his heart. she felt so good after that and had a smile on her face after she heard the news she started to cry and i dont cry often but this was just so sad it brought a tear to my eye. everyone i have talked to just could not get over what a great kid he was and they missed him soo much. all these messages show that they all love him so much i just cant get over the fact he would do this to himself after everyone loves him this much. eric rest in peace. please watch over us all
Name: ~*~*~*~
E-Mail:
AIM:
17:29:41 04/28/03
Comments:
I didn't know eric...in fact i'm only in eigth grade at Mokena...but my mom's best friend knew eric and from what she told me he was a great guy. I just hope that when i go to highschool next year that there will be someone just like eric to be there for me...my prayers are with his family and friends...R.I.P
Name: one who cares
E-Mail:
AIM:
16:59:39 04/28/03
Comments:
not to be rude and selfish myself but anyone who needs to talk about god or jesus instant message me here screwedupchica14 i can help.
Name: one who cares
E-Mail:
AIM:
16:53:25 04/28/03
Comments:
hey eric we never met. im just one of those people who just saw u in the halls and thought wow that guy is really happy. but now i see that i was wring. i guess everyone has their problems. i don't know why u killed urself but thats not my business. all i know now is that alot of people miss u because they love you. if u think about it theres ur family and then all ur friends then people like me who just have to say something. i think wut u did was stupid there is no good reason why u should kill yourself. jesus died for us all so people like u wouldn't have to. all jesus wants is for us to be happy and if ur not then u should work on that. AnYoNe who doesn't believe in jesus christ this is a perfect example that he does exist! jesus and god do live! eric did this to himself they didn't do it to him. i hope that all u non believers give god and jesus a CHANCE!! they do work in mysterious powers. i mean u could run into someone in ur future who could be just like eric. i don't mean to be a holy and everything becuz im not i just think that people should at least give them a chance. if anyone needs to talk about this stuff help or anything im me or email me. im sorry eric that u had a life that had to end quickly for a reason that i could never understand. wut u did scares me. yes i think about myself but an easy way for me to escape is to write it down in a story or a poem. im sorry that i am one of those people that hadn't had the opportunity to meet u. please watch over everyone u know and say hi to mrs. kathy reid that would be jamie reid's mother. ~~we shall all miss u!!!!~~
Name: Carli again
E-Mail:
AIM:
16:48:48 04/28/03
Comments:
Well Graffers today was unbelievable....and easily the hardest day i have ever gone through in my entire life. I have never experienced anything like it, it was just so powerful. I wish you could have seen everyone there for you...and only for you babe. There had to be at least 200 cars in the procession and it felt like for those few hours the whole world stopped turning and we all just stopped to remember the great smiling crazy wonderful Eric Graf. I couldnt believe that it was you lying in that coffin..it just didnt seem possible. And the hundreds of people there that care for you. We would do anything to see your sweet face one last time. But I know your up there on angels wings looking down on us all. God bless your mom, dad, brother, your boys especially, and everyone else. You would have been proud of the guys today, it must have been the most unimaginable and hardest thing for them to carry you in. But they stayed so strong in the worst of times and i know they would have made you so happy. We miss you like crazy babe. I hope your doing something wild up there....keep it real graf. lots of love.....Peace Out....love carli
Name: C.J. Houston
E-Mail:
AIM: MLJJ6668
16:46:31 04/28/03
Comments:
Hey Eric,
I know it's been awhile since we talked, what, three years now? geez... Anyway, I'll miss you man, You may be gone, but you're not forgotten, you will live on in spirit and in memory. I remember the time freshman year, i was waiting to try out for the play and you showed up, and that's when our friendship began. You sat down and we started talking about it, somehow all of that led to us sitting there trying to do russian accents, making complete fools of ourselves, I mean, these were some of the worst impersonations I'd ever heard, I remember how you made my laugh so hard my juice came out my nose, it burned so bad, but yet it was one of the best days of my life, no one else has ever been able to do that to me and for that I thank you. Ofcourse neither of us made the play but who cares, ya know? We still had a fun time. Eric, you wereso funny and I wish we had never drifted apart, you were a great person and you made my life five times better just being around. You had a great personality and you were really nice. But sophmore year came and we each went our seperate ways because our "Cliques", if you will, were different from each other, none of our friends liked the others, so with that we went our seperate ways and I regret that day. Who knows where we would be now if that had not happened. Eric, You were a great friend and i will miss you dearly. But I will write you again. Cya bud
Name: Ed
E-Mail:
AIM:
16:37:38 04/28/03
Comments:
I never met you, but i am sorry to hear that you chose this way out. I feel deep compassion for your family and all of those around you who loved you. This song should help some deal with the pain because it helped me when i lost a close friend. It is entitled "Angel's Son" by Sevendust. Rest gracefully Eric. God Bless you. Life is changing
I can't go on without you
Rearranging. I will be strong
I'll stand by you You were fighting everyday
So hard to hide the pain
I know you never said goodbye
I had so much left to say One last song
Given to an Angel's Son
As soon as you were gone
As soon as you were gone I have a new life now
She lives through you
What can I do
Feel so alone now
I pray for you
We still love you I can't believe you're gone I can't believe
Name: Sam Edgin
E-Mail: ziplit13@aol.com
AIM:
16:36:01 04/28/03
Comments:
hey eric. i dont even know if you'd remember me, but i was in your woodshop class. i had talked to you a few times, you seemed like a realy great guy. i mean, i barely even know you, but after today in school, i felt like i lost a best friend. it was just such an impact on everyone. it just shows how much you really do mean to people you know? i can't say that i really know you, or anything about you, but i can say that i will miss you. it's scary to think that so many people i know, know you. i dunno what to say buddy. i hope the afterlife is what you thought it would be, and so much better. good luck with your mischief in the afterlife. feel free to visit my house, it's already haunted, so it'd be nice to actually see a somewhat familiar face. take care buddy.
Name: Kristie (again)
E-Mail:
AIM: babykris125
16:27:54 04/28/03
Comments:
Well Eric, this will probably the last time I write in here again.. but I just had to tell you that Everybody at your funeral, and especially the burial came together today. It was like nothing I've ever seen before, or felt before, and I just wish it wasn't you. I tried to keep strong the whole time, but when your mom said goodbye.. I just burst into tears, and from then on I didn't stop for a while. I'm so sorry Eric, sorry for everything you went through, for all that went on today and for what you had to watch us all do, but what could you expect. I can't even fathom the idea of how your family is feeling, and all of your close friends, because I couldn't even handle it today.Things will never be the same around here .. but in the least I can say that it's easier to deal with it knowing that Heaven's been extremely lucky these past few days. And thank you for helping me realize just how important my friends are to me.. So once again, may you Always rest in peace, and help everyone sleep easy, and watch over us, at least for a little bit longer. We all love and miss you like crazy <33
Name: cait again
E-Mail: linliz2923@aol.com
AIM: caits2923
16:25:12 04/28/03
Comments:
eric these last two days have been the hardest of my life...but i was amazed at how many people came to your wake throughout the day and how many people were in the procession. but not surprised, if anyone could touch that many people, it would be you. i have never in my life seen so many people hurting so badly. but we're all there for each other, because we know if you were here you would be there for us. and i know that you still are and always will be, til i'm lucky enough to see your SHINING face again. and i know last night after the prayer service, when we all went up to your casket, you were smack in the middle of that massive hug. seeing your mom, dad, and dave just breaks my heart eric, it hurts so bad, but just take care of them. your mom asked me to never forget you, damn kid, that's not possible. she also asked us to not forget her, which i promise we won't. we'll keep an eye on her for ya, as long as you keep an eye on us from time to time. she loved you so much. eric, watching your best buddies today, being pallbearers, they're too young to do that. we should be 90 when we're all mourning the death of the people we grew up with and care so much about. i don't think i've ever cried so much as i have the last 5 days, but i know with time i will simply think of you and smile and laugh, remembering all you gave me. i didn't want to leave the cemetary, i didn't want you to be alone, but then i thought of the fact that that's not you...your soul is off all over the place, prolly causing trouble somewhere and making people smile. and you're by no means alone...and neither are we, because you're one more angel we all now have! we're all selfish, and just want you to come back to us, but, i know you're so happy now, and God needed another comedic angel up there, going around making everyone laugh...just like you did here. you amazed me eric, and you always will. i miss you more than anything my friend, but you have left me with so many memories of happier times. i cherish them so much. i don't want to go back to school tomorrow and not see you there...it's hard to imagine our lives without you, but that's only in the physical. i know you will be with us in everything that we do from here on out. i love you and miss you...rest in peace buddy, and i'll see you when i get there. i bet there's TONS of good hiding spots for kick the can, even better than the ones around town. no more goodbyes, they're too hard, so i'll just say "see ya later", because i will...
love always, cait
Name: Emily
E-Mail: prncssemilia@attbi.com
AIM: crzygURLie32
16:17:19 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric**
From all the people I have heard talking about you and crying over you I can guess that you were one awesome guy. I am sorry that I never got the pleasure of ever meeting you. After all, you were a big senior and I'm just a lowly freshman. However, I do wish that I could have met you. I have absolutely no idea what went on to make you decide to do this, and I am sorry that you had to feel that this was your only way out. I am happy that you are finally at peace with God. God bless you**RIP**Emily Koza
Name: Jess
E-Mail:
AIM:
16:16:41 04/28/03
Comments:
Hey Graf, I just wanted to let you know that even though I didn't know you that well, I miss you already. It's hard not to expect to see you in the hallway or at your locker. I'll never forget you and your amazing presence. Rest in Peace ,Eric.
Love Always,
Jess
Name: Lindsay (AGAIN)
E-Mail: Lilias1222@attbi.com
AIM: Lilias1222
15:53:43 04/28/03
Comments:
He is a friend to remember,
a friend we love so much.
The memory runs through my mind
of the last time we touched.
He lived a life of happiness,
a life filled with love.
And from one little mistake he looks
down on us from up above. He was always there to make you
laugh when your day was going wrong.
Where was he the day where we
had to say "so long?" Why did it have to end
this way in so much pain?
Since he left this world, things have
never been the same. I can no longer look forward to
tomorrows anymore,
because I know that they will never
be the way they were before. Not seeing his face,
not hearing his voice.
I wish there could
have been some choice. Life can begin and end so fast.
The memory of Eric Graf will always last. I wish there was some way
I could have said goodbye.
The thought of him runs through
my head as I look up in the sky. Knowing he is looking down on us
with a smile on his face,
remembering the life he lived before
he left this place.
*I just found this poem and it totally made me think of you Eric*
Love- Lindsay
Name: Shannon
E-Mail:
AIM: Xx ShAy BaYbI xX
15:51:47 04/28/03
Comments:
*Eric*
I didnt know whether to write in here or not maybe because I didnt know you that well or I didnt know what to say....I've met you a few times and you were such an awesome person. I dont understand no matter what the circumstances are, a person could come to this. I guess I will never understand. I went to your wake yesterday and there were sooo many people there. Everybody knows you. Theres not one person in the school that doesnt know you. Even in class today teachers talked to us about how precious life is and you can always turn somewhere for help. ALWAYS. no matter what the situation is. I've always heard about people commiting suicide and never realized how serious it was until it happened to you. When I heard the news I couldnt believe it.. someone so happy and so outgoing as you to do something like this. So many people are hurt and it hurts to see so many people depressed.. There was not alot of people in school today because of your funeral. Ive never seen soo many people come together before. Ive seen people cry that I never thought could have any emotion cry yesterday. I've read these messages over and over again and I realized how many people care for you.... Well Thats all.... my prayers are with you family and close friends.... Ill seee you there..
*RiP*
Shannon
Name: Sadie
E-Mail: SadieJane3@aol.com
AIM: SadieJane3
15:42:47 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric-
I saw you in the halls everyday. You were always smiling!!! I always thought, "what a happy guy." .... I just think that you ought to know that you were and are still loved by many.
A lot of people are hurting right now, and will be for a long time. There are so many empty hearts that ache for you. No one knows why you did this... I bet many will never know. R-I-P Eric... I'll see you again someday.
-Sadie
Name: Lindsay
E-Mail: Lilias1222@attbi.com
AIM: Lilias1222
15:28:29 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric-
Wow.... I have never in my life been to or even heard of a funeral like yours just was today. I cant even explain how many people were there... and how many tears were shed. EVERYONE came together today Eric. We all miss you so much. I know you saw all of us today... because I know your always lookin down on everybody. WE LOVE YOU ERIC GRAF! You have made everyone come together and realize how important we are to eachother, but you have always done that even before this happened. You considered everyone a friend. And everyone considered you a friend as well. -Thats just one of the many great characteristics about you. We're missin you buddy.... Keep watchin down on us..Talk to you later babe....
Love,
Lindsay Sajdak
Name: you are missed
E-Mail:
AIM:
15:28:09 04/28/03
Comments:
Graf man school just wasn't the same today everybody all sad and what not your are missed by many people this was proven today with all the kids that were at the mass and all the sad ones in school. There were guys i never though i would see crying but the were they were bc you were gone you will def be miss you were a great guy even tho we weren't really that close
Name: Jess
E-Mail:
AIM:
15:12:59 04/28/03
Comments:
***Grafers***
Hey babes. Wow, I'veknown you for so long, ever since about 6 or 7 years old. I've grow up with your jokes, your smile, and that gorgeous red hair. You will always be remembered by those who you touched, which really is a lot. Like everyone else I wish that there was something I could've done to help you out. I don't understand and I probably never will. Please know you will always hold a place in my heart. I'm gonna miss you so much!!! I can't believe this happened. I hope you are happier in heaven now. Try to look out for everyone okay babes? Whenever I look to the stars I'll think of you and wonder if you're looking down on me too, and whenever I'm out in Cali I'll give ya a shout out. Goodbye. I love you! R.I.P Eric.........your unforgettable!
Name: Heather Cialdella
E-Mail: Sunkiss4129@cs.com
AIM:
15:08:38 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric~
I will never forget your smile. I had a class with you sophomore year. You made it rock. You always had the class laughing. I am glad for having the chance to have known you. I would go to jc flicks just to talk with you. I remember bumbing into you at Wendy's this winter and had a great time in the parking lot. You truly are an awsome guy. RIP, Eric. You are missed.
Love,
Heather
Name: ***
E-Mail:
AIM:
14:10:20 04/28/03
Comments:
On a picture of graph on a posterboard in back of the wake, Eric wrote a quote that i'll never EVER forget in my entire life. "It takes a great person to be known, but it takes an even greater person to be remembered". Grafmeister, you sure as hell were a greater person that will ALWAYS be remembered. I dreaded going to class today without you. The second I turned the corner and saw goldie and a group of girls crying....i tried soooo hard tohold it in. I NEVER let people see me cry eric. But the second I walked into that classroom, I dropped my stuff off at my desk and broke down. I remember when we were reading Hamlet, and you were the Ghost. that smile of yours is one in a million. Sorry i couldn't go to your funeral today. Katie and I were contemplating all night and for like an hour this morning in bed if we were goign to go. We decided not to. I don't know that we could have handled it. and as for this damn school....do you believe that they haven't even said one word. you'd think they'd have a moment in silence or something...although it doesn't surprise me..it is Lincoln-way. right? yea and we all know damn well that if gardner were to say anything it would be "keep up the griffin spirit and don't let it get in the way of your grades". GRRRRRRRRRR that makes me so angry! they didn't say anything for steve. It's not like i'm shocked or anything. I remember when we tried to have the entire school walk out of school until they said something about him. Haha, I just remembered a funny story about you. Kind of random...but i remember freshman year...you and your buddies use to pull the street signs up and switch them all around....around frankfort fest time no less ahha to make people get lost. Wow...It just isn't the same without you around here. Graf, Graf, Graf....I just...don't know what i'm going to do without you around anymore. your presence could shine through the darkest of nights....I hope it still does. Later good buddy, I'm sure i'll write more later. I love you so much- I just wish we all could have made that known from the beginning. Ughh, until next time....
Laters
Name: Tony Ferraro
E-Mail:
AIM:
12:50:52 04/28/03
Comments:
Just to see how sad some of my friends were when they heard about what happened to you, made me realize how great of a person you must have been. I'm sorry we never had the opportunity to meet eachother. Hopefully you are in a better place right now, without such worries that made you do what you did. To all of Eric's family and friends, I know what you are going though, and I know things seem like they couldn't get any worse. I just want to say that time is the only thing that will make things better, and try to keep Eric's legacy alive by sharing the memories that you still have about him. God Bless you Eric.
Name: Amy
E-Mail: Dixie Niel@aol.com
AIM:
11:15:50 04/28/03
Comments:
Graf Man*
Hey buddy!! I loved spending time with you this year. You have been such a positive person ever since i met you. It was so great hanging out with you b/c me and u were a lot alike. You have touched a little bit of everyone here at Lincoln-Way. You where the coolest guy at L-W if u ask me. I wanted to say goodbye on here b/c I could not make it to your wake --- i tried so hard, but i was at a modeling thing in rosemont all day from 8 till 10---- as 8 o clock rolled around and new i couldn't make it i felt so bad. But your memory will always remain. How about the sledding times... or how about making fun of robert DeNiro in Frankenstein!! You were a big influence on me -- i'm sorry i never told u, but u being yourself always put me in a good mood. I seen you driving the night it happened -- as you passed i waved goodbye... if i known it was your last time i would have chased after u and gave u a great big kiss. At least i got to wave. I miss you because senior year i got to no u and i wish our friendship would have continued. Don't worry about Catherine i will always be by her side -- it was great knowing that u were her guy best bud and i was her girl best bud-- so we kind of had a connection. We are all sad and we all feel your pain...mentally. I'm sorry about all of this but i no your happy out there.. Godspeed graf man... I will always remember u i hope i have a redheaded kid jsut like u---because u left part of u in all of us... I will see u again...I can't wait! ;) I miss you and watch over Catherine with me... I'll talk to ya tonight before i go to bed. LOVE YA ALWAYS AND FOREVER --- AMY
K.I.T. Let us no your ok
Name: Jen Medvid
E-Mail: jmedvid@luc.edu
AIM: gabs0705
02:34:16 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric-"If God brings you to it, God will bring you through it." He never gives you anything that you can't handle. Not I, nor anyone else will ever understand what just happened. Nothing is worth taking your own life over. If it was your time, God would have sent his angels to come get you. Natalie agrees w/ me about that. I also heard tonight in church, "God does not give up on anyone" So why did YOU give up on yourself? You have so many family members and friends who care, why didn't you speak up? They all love and care about you so much, I don't know how you didn't see it. I didn't know you, but if I knew how much pain you were in, I would have done something, ANYTHING, just as everyone who cared so much about you. We will never know the reasons that someone does something so final, and now the unanswered questions will remain in all of us forever. I wish I had the privelege of meeting you, but from what I have heard, you're an exact replica of Justin, and I knew him very well; he was one of my best friends. Therefore, I can kind of relate. He was one of a kind, and I've heard the same things about you. Everyone was really lucky to have you in their lives-just as all of us who knew Justin. You two are probably hanging out together causing trouble. Haha, you guys always knew how to have a good time.
What I'm really upset about is how many people sit here and are in pain bc you left them. There are so many people that had to deal with Justin's death in January. Now for all those who are also friends with you? It's too much. Your actions have affected me, too, although we never met. They've brought back sad thoughts and memories of the day I heard about Justin...and the hours after, days after, weeks; etc. I'm still not over it, and now I know MORE people are hurting because of something that was unnecessary. As hard as this is, you've changed people's lives forever. Things will never be the same again. Everyone loves and misses you like crazy; I wish you woulda seen it, man. You, your family, and your friends are in my prayers. God knows how much you've influenced many; no one will ever forget you. Your spirit will continue to live on forever. Rest in peace, Graf..everyone misses you more than you could ever imagine-I hope you saw that today at your wake... incredible wasn't it? Jen
To everyone: I would like to sincerely apoligize for this tragedy. It's amazing how people take everything for granted. Tell those that you love how much you truly care about them. I don't think they all see it as much as you'd like. As past events, you just never know what the next day will bring. Focus on the big things in life; don't let trifling events get in your way. Enjoy life, it's far too short and precious not to.
If anyone needs to talk, I'm no professional, but I've been dealing with the grief of losing one of my best friends to suicide for over 3 months. I promise..it WILL get easier, it just takes time. I've already talked to some of you, and I've given input-hopefully I've done some good. Please, don't hesitate to email/ im/ call; etc. I'm here for all of you, and I'll do my best to help in any way. God bless you all, love you.
Name: Carli
E-Mail:
AIM:
02:23:18 04/28/03
Comments:
**Graf**
My Skippy!! Omg...where do I even begin? There is so much i want to say to you right now I'm not even sure how to say it. First I want to say I am soo sorry i missed your wake. Me and Ash did everything we could to make it and it seemed like everything was working against us. Believe me I will be there tomorrow though. I wouldnt miss it for the world. Let me tell you..we walked around Florida in a state of shock for the past few days..it doesnt even seem real to me..I keep having to tell myself its real becuase i kept hoping i would step off that plane, come back to Frankfort and you would be here having the time of your life with the rest of our friends. The reality of it all was I got home and we all went to Cravens. Once I saw everyone it all started to sink in and i just broke down. I was just talking to you at the same spot only 2 weeks ago...how can everything change so fast? Graf....you were absolutely amazing! You would never hurt a single person and you had a goofy charm about you that could make anyone's day brighter. I have known you for so many years but becoming close with you last year was one of the best things that could of happened to me. I will never forget the first night we really started hanging out. It was one of the first fort nights and we hit it off like we had been best friends forever! Thats the night we came up with all our crazy names for eachother.....thats why you will always be my Skippy! and damn that name described you perfectly! That fort was unbelievable Graf....thats one place i can truly say brought all of our friends together. We must have spent 7000 nights there last summer and it was never ever a bad time. I remember i was so proud of myself one night becuase i finally thought i conquered the path to the fort on my own and didnt need anyone to guide me and then i finally was almost there and you jumped out of NO WHERE and scared the hell out of me!! you were always crazy like that and always the life of a party. I saw a shooting star a couple days ago and I made a wish for you and everyone in your life. I wished you would be truly happy up in heaven and that you could hopefully see the enormous amount of love for you there is on this earth and I wished you would always continue to watch over our friends and your family and everyone else in your life from up in those stars. We need you babe. The stars are always gonna remind me of you Graf. Remember that one night when just u me murph and jess layed in the middle of your street for literally 3 hours and made pictures out of all the stars?? And Lunch...OMG what are we going to do without you?! You can count on one thing...NO ONE will take your place and cross that line! Its gonna be tough for me jules pete and shawn to have our "fun lunches" without you. I'm dreading it to tell you the truth. Look at our odds for Rock Paper Scissors and the trays now! Can you help me out from up there cuz you know how bad i am! The five of us have become so close this year becuase of that lunch and I'm having a really hard time imagining it without you. We always hate when one of us are missing for a day and its so hard to deal with the fact that you will always be missing. You will ALWAYS live on in my heart though, through pictures memories and everything else we could never let go of you. And one more thing...this was one of my fave moments about you....I'll always remember the day I was giving all you guys the gum and I had Extra and Big Red...EVERYONE took the Extra and you were the only one who got so excited about the Big Red and you grabbed that one, pointed at your hair, and winked at me.....haha you're the best! Wow I could go on forever with out memories. I know I havent grasped this yet and I'm not sure how long it will take. Theres so much pressure that i feel like i cant even breathe sometimes and i keep wishing it was all just a bad dream. but I know one thing...You have touched so many people in such an amazing way. I only wish you could have stuck around to realize it. You had a way of making every person you encountered feel special. Your outstanding personality brought out the best in everyone. This world will never be the same. We have all been extremely lucky to know you Eric. There is nobody like you and nobody who could ever take your place. I'm so happy for you that your in a better place and all your troubles are gone but we'll miss you like crazy down here...God Bless Graf.....I LOVE YA!!! Times two baby!! Love always, Carli
Name: yo
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00:57:29 04/28/03
Comments:
well, i didn't know eric quite that well, but i do remember hanging out or at least talking to him more than once in his lifetime. i would have to say he was a goofy kid but a good one. it is tuff to swallow a thing like this...i just dont know how someone could push themselves towards something like this. what is really scary is that it hits close to home for everyone, worrying that is if that could happen to a family memeber or even themselves, God forbid. all that i have to say is talk to anybody that you need to sort things out, just get that weight off your chest. punch a pillow for christ sakes that works too but suicide is not the answer it is the problem because you hurt people in the process.
God bless Eric and his family
God bless everyone that had a chance to meet this kid.R.I.P
Name: Shorty
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00:55:55 04/28/03
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Graf man, your wake was one of the hardest things i ever had to go through. Seeing so many of your family and your friends crying, just cant believing that your gone. You left us to early G-money, we had so many more great memories to make. I mean im gonna miss you throwing your frisbee into every tree possible and you just running all wasted after it. We had the best times bro and i will remember every last one of them. Im gonna miss you Graphite, dont worry we will keep it hoppin down here for ya and when i see you up there, we will definitely throw back some brews. you will be forever missed Graf. RIPShorty
Name: Ryan
E-Mail:
AIM: ISCORE94
00:24:32 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric,
When I heard about this i didnt believe it. I didnt want to believe it. I kinda just dealt with it over the weekend, dreading going to your wake, seeing your Mom and Dad cry. I have a lot of regrets. I wish that I would have stayed in contact with you more often. I feared that you had forgotten about me and the way things were back in the day, but then I went to the wake today expecting to feel like an outsider compared to everyone of your close friends that you hung out with. But, your dad told me something that made me feel a lot better. As soon as i walked up to him he said " Eric and I were just talking about you and your father earlier in the week!" He told me that Eric said he missed the days when we used to play baseball together(Hedges Clinic, METS, A's,Giants, Frankfort Falcons) and Eric also told him he thought I was still a good kid. He gave me a big hug. Since then I cannot stop looking at old pictures of us and thinking of the good old days. Thanks for thinking about me; I WILL NEVER STOP THINKING ABOUT YOU. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. See you when I get there BIG "E".
Your Friend,
RC
Name: Bijan
E-Mail: Kurt4ever69@aol.com
AIM: Kurt4ever69
00:23:34 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric i will forever miss you. i rember meeting you back in 5th grade, you made everyone laugh. i thought you were the happiest kid in the world. i never saw you with out a smile on your face. i rember Jr year in Ms. Deedys class always getting in trouble for stupid things i rember you got in trouble for singing a song. i just wished i could have spent more time with you and could of jus chilled because you were the coolest guy i ever met. i miss you man, and i will always miss you, you are in my heart forever, and hopefully someday we will meet again until then Peace. i will keep praying for you.
Name: Ryan
E-Mail:
AIM: ISCORE94
00:23:04 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric,
When I heard about this i didnt believe it. I didnt want to believe it. I kinda just dealt with it over the weekend, dreading going to your wake, seeing your Mom and Dad cry. I have a lot of regrets. I wish that I would have stayed in contact with you more often. I feared that you had forgotten about me and the way things were back in the day, but then I went to the wake today expecting to feel like an outsider compared to everyone of your close friends that you hung out with. But, your dad told me something that made me feel a lot better. As soon as i walked up to him he said " Eric and I were just talking about you and your father earlier in the week!" He told me that Eric said he missed the days when we used to play baseball together(Hedges Clinic, METS, A's,Giants, Frankfort Falcons) and Eric also told him he thought I was still a good kid. He gave me a big hug. Since then I cannot stop looking at old pictures of us and thinking of the good old days. Thanks for thinking about me; I WILL NEVER STOP THINKING ABOUT YOU. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. See you when I get there BIG "E".
Love,
RC
Name: Jacqueline Carruth
E-Mail: QT3036@aol.com
AIM: JaxCutie85
00:10:58 04/28/03
Comments:
Eric ~ i know i've already written u a message but i have more to say. i went to your wake today. it was so hard. i couldnt stay for very long. i was so upset. to see everyone there crying .... eric it was all for you everyone was there b/c they love you. i dont think you understand how many people actually truly loved you. i was one of them. it hurts lookin back. i honestly regret some things. i wish we spent more time together. i feel like i took our friendship for granted. and i hate that. i miss you so much you have no idea. i just wish i could see you one last time just to tell you how much i truly loved you. i wish we were able to actually sit down and have "heart2heart" convos about life in general. eric you were an awesome person. in every way possible. EVERYONE loved you. i just do NOT understand y you did this. i wish i could have seen the signs. i wish i could have done something or said something. anything. and now its too late. i'm sorry you had no way out. we have soo many good memories that we shared. when i first met you back in jr high, i thought u were the funniest person i ever met (still do). then last year you were in mr kellers math class with me. second semester you sat right in front of me. u would always be turned around talkin to me. i loved it... talking to you! you were always there to put a smile on my face. i remember when u went to katie jagmins party and u and i danced for like 5 songs straight b4 you left. and then this year partyin together. remember that nite at grants house when everyone else was pretty much passed out and you and i went off and were just talkin with eachother. all those good memories with you i want to relive! i wish you could know how many people feel the same way as i do. you will remain in my heart forever. i love you. and i cant wait till i see you again. you were always there for me. whenever i needed someone to talk to. i just wish i was more there for you. you always put that smile on my face. i will never forget you, or the memories we shared together. i will never forget your big smile that yould brighten up everyones day. i'll never forget ur personality...you were the kind of person that whenever u walked into a room you were the center of attention. you made everyone happier. you were the life of the party. you were everything to so many people. including me. i love you eric. i wish i could see you one last time to tell you that. i know ur in a better place right now. lookin down on everyone. dont forget us ok. we wont forget you. be our guardian angel. i cant wait till i see you again someday. rip my friend. you will remain in my heart and thoughts for the rest of my life. you will never be forgotten. i love you!! LUV ALWAYS ~ jacqueline
Name: Sarah H.
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AIM: gcincubusgrlsays
23:59:41 04/27/03
Comments:
I cant stop thinking about you and everyone that loves you. Me and my friend were driving today and talked about everything we could possibly talk about. Every little memory we could think of. I cant even imagine what your friends and family are going through and im praying for you. I feel like I know you just from reading all these messages. And I know that I will remember you and your smile for the rest of my life. eric graf may you be happy and still smiling and laughing. You'll Never ever be forgotten...You will be missed and remembered everyday of our lives...
Love,
Sarahheres something i wrote just for you.... i didnt know you
but it makes me cry
becuz i saw you smile everyday
i saw you laugh
and make others smile
it makes me sad
cuz i didnt get to know you
because i didn't get to smile with you God has you now
and we'll all be waiting
for that day that we can all see you and your smile some day again <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Name: me again
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23:59:24 04/27/03
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whats up G-Money man u should have seen it today. it was packed with people. im sure u were watching from up there. i know ur watchin down on all of us. im not goin to the funeral tommarow becuase i have no one to go with. its gunna be hard not seeing u when i walk into my history class there isnt going to be no whats up g-money or what up man i know i didnt know u like everyone else did but i wish i could have man u are watching over me man i know it ive been praying for u man ill keep writing everyday and dont u be mackin too hard up there G-money
Name: christina
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23:23:00 04/27/03
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i will regret for the longest time not going to your wake. ***all i want right now is to see you one more time*** i don't do well with death at all. i've never actually had anyone i know die before. and i'm so sorry that it had to be you. i can't help but think that there was something i could have done for you, eric. something, ANYTHING. i keep expecting to see your ever-smiling face in math class 4th period with mr murphy. i am forever sorry for the pain that you were feeling. i wish i could have just taken it all away from you some how. oh god, i can't believe this is real. i hate this so much. i hate that i waited until after you died to tell you how great of a person you were. i can only hope that you are at peace wherever you are now. i'm sorry i waited until it was too late. i'm so sorry...
Name: Shannon~again
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23:22:25 04/27/03
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Hey kid. I went to the wake today, and I have to say that was one of the hardest things I've had to deal with. Eric, I know you saw everyone that was there today. I was talking to someone there, and I was wondering if you wished you were still here. Like maybe if you thought about it, and saw everyone there and how much everyone was hurting, that maybe you wished you wouldn't have done it. I couldn't bring myself to believe this really happened. But it hit me today, Eric. It hit everyone real hard. The funeral is going to be tough tomorrow. That will be the last time we are close to you physically Eric. I wish I could have known that last day we hung out, 2 days before you made your decision, that that was the last time I would see you. I would have hugged you goodbye a little bit tighter, just to let you know I care. I don't know what your reason was, but if it had anything to do with not feeling wanted..You were wrong babe. Everyone who was there was crying because they missed you, Eric. Everyone tried to giggle or smile for you, but its just to soon. Eric look at your website. There are so many signatures from people who don't even know you! Some people have written in here 4 or 5 times. I am on this page several times a day and there's probably 20 new signings each time, and its only been up a few days. I dont know what else to say. I'm sure I'll write to you again soon.To all of Eric's friends:
Eric is everywhere you go. Although we won't ever see him on earth again, he'll be waiting for us up there with that big grin on his face and that awesome red hair. Remember the times you've spent with him, because with Graf, the party never ends. To His Family:
My thoughts are with you. You raised a great guy. Eric must have made you very proud, and he definetly made everyone in his company happy to be with him.
Name: Kelly
E-Mail: Luvvball40@aol.com
AIM:
23:18:55 04/27/03
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Eric--
I know you do not really know me. I had physics with you last year and you always made that class fun. I talked to you a little bit and you were extremely nice and always made me laugh. I looked forward to that class only because i knew it wouldn't be boring if you were there. I never knew you to well but i knew a alot of your friends. Everyone loved you. You were always a happy kid , smiling and making everyone else smile. I was in complete shock when i heard, i just remember thinking how happy and funny you were. I pray that you are happy in heavan and watching over all your friends and family. From reading these comments i can tell how much you meant to people and how much everyone will miss you. You will always be in my prayers. Rest in peace. I pray for you, your family, and friends. May the angels watch over you.
Kelly C.
Name: an aquaintance
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23:06:15 04/27/03
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Wow, I don't even know what to say. I heard the news online because I was visiting friends at college, and I just had to walk away from the computer screen because I couldn't believe what I read. I wasn't super-close friends with Eric, but, I knew him from track and stuff before the school-split. One of the VERY scarce highlights of those practices was waiting to see what kinda stunt Eric was going to try and pull that day...I think he's one of few to make Coach Lagger crack a smile...which says a LOT. What also says a lot is the incredible amount of love and support put into this website and the messages on it. Things like this aren't created for people not worthy of being remembered and kept in thoughts and prayers. You are forever missed, Eric, and its a shame that anyone even has to say that. We all love ya, kid.
Name: ----
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22:57:22 04/27/03
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I love you, I would give anything to have known how you felt and I would give anything to have been able to help. Ive prayed over and over for you and I know youre in heaven. Im upset to learn that you had so much sorrow in your heart. I love you, and Im gonna miss you alot. Along with every other night... I will be praying for you. Keep us safe sweetie.
Name: Mike Carbine
E-Mail: MadlySkild@aol.com
AIM: MadlySkild
22:50:53 04/27/03
Comments:
Eric -
You had to be one of my favorite people in all of Lincoln-Way, if not all people. This came as a terrible shock and i'm even feeling worse because i was in Michigan and could not make the wake. I remember Miss K's chemistry with you. Me you and Tony always tearin it up for her. That day she made you and i stand against the wall with our noses touching the bricks, and getting kicked out of labs, or making fun of the class. We had other classes together and they always kicked ass just because of your excellent sense of humor and people skills. You knew how to make people happy, i only wish you knew how to be happy yourself. I might write again, but i just found out about this now and i'm still in shock. Rest in peace Eric, you will always have my memory and admiration.
Name: upset
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22:42:12 04/27/03
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Eric~ i cant say i have had the chance to meet you, but i really wish i had. just from what everyone wrote you seemed like a happy person. well i just wish you had the chance to tell everyone how you felt. but even though i have never talked to you in my life i still am crying so hard. just b/c its so upsetting. ~to everyone else- just remeber how important you are to everyone, even though some of us cant express how we feel you are still cared for~
Name: Hovanes
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22:31:31 04/27/03
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Eric-
Today was a really rough one. I'm still at a loss of words and am so confused. I'm not going to ask why, because no one will ever understand what you were thinking at the time. However, i wish i did, i wish i could have lend a helping hand. I wish you and me were closer this year then what we used to be. Me and tom today laid on the trampoline and just looked at the stars. I prayed to God you were looking down at everyone else. There was this one star that shined brighter then the rest and there was some relief that you had been there. that star stood out next to the rest of them and just shined. it was beautiful. tom told me that the brighter the star...the faster they burnout and then they are not there anymore. and i realized you were one of the brightest, funniest, "stand out of the crowd", kids i knew and your life ended to young. there is nothing anyone can do about that but i do no that all those good memories i have of you and your friends are tied so close to me right now i dont think i can ever let you fade. you meant a lot to people eric...including me. i mean come on, JC FLICKS! haha oh ok so wait i have another story for you, so i was talking to bridget and i was like remember when we went to the cemertary and drank and she was like no haha we never drank. Well eric i guess it was just you and me drinkin that night hahah...you and me bonded...i could have sworn everyone else was though . owell, it is a memory i will always cherish! my grammer is so bad, wow. i hope that you are at peace now because that is all i want from the bottem of my heart. i want you to watch over your friends to if you can do that...they love you and they are missin every minute that you are not here, but i know your not far.
I love you, God Bless
Krystin
Name: /// ********* \\\
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22:29:23 04/27/03
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You are so greatly missed, even by those who didnt even no you. You have made an impact on so many people( as you can see ). R.I.P.. we ALL love you
Name:
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22:28:20 04/27/03
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Sorrow
Sorrow Needs Time
But Tomorrow Is Mine
Sorrow
Sorrow Is Mine
But Tomorrow Takes Time
Name: ***
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22:09:44 04/27/03
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Eric i was not a close friend of yours but my heart goes out to your family and your friends. Even tho we only met twice, this is still soooo hard to get through my head . Why? I wish you could of found the power inside of you to get through whatever it was that was soo hard...but you didnt. My brother tried to commit suicide, and confided in me. i know how hard it was for him to even tell me, but i was lucky he did. im sooo sorry that your story had to end like this, and your beautiful life is over. but you made an impact on the people closest to you and i hope you see how much everyone DID love you. youll be missed by everyone.TELL YOUR FRIENDS HOW MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU. NOTHING.....NOTHING CAN GET SO BAD THAT PEOPLE HAVE TO RESORT TO SUICIDE. IT MIGHT SEE RIGHT AT THE TIME...BUT JUST TRUELY THINK ABOUT THE PEOPLE THAT LOVE YOU AND WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR YOU. R.I.P eric!
Name: John
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22:02:20 04/27/03
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Eric,
Today I went to your wake and saw all the people that loved and cared about you. You touched so many people's lives. I will never forget lunch together sophomore year. You made Villa's auto shop so much fun. I remember when you drove a car into the lift. It will never be the same in that class without you sitting next to me. We never really talked about anything important, usually just our cars. Now I wish I could have said a last goodbye to you. I will never forget you."Remembrance is a form of meeting."-Kahlil Gibran
One day we will meet again.
Name: ***
E-Mail:
AIM: ***********
22:01:28 04/27/03
Comments:
Hey Eric, i dont really know you at all but i wish i had. Your death affected me and we have never even met. I saw ho many people miss you and how many lives this affected and it just blew me away. i was reading this web site and i started to cry and think...how can someon do this? ive been through some hit to so im not gunna hold it against you, but i really wish you could see how many people are hurting and how many people miss you to death. Ive heard that you were an awesome kid and that you were great to be around. You always looked so happy and you always seemed to make everyone else around you happy too. Eric you will be missed sooooooOoOoOoOoooo much and i feel sooooooOooooOooooOooo bad about what happened. I hope you have a good time up there. Ill see you soon! even though i dont know you, i love you for what ive heard. Later graf, peace
Love,
~***~
Name: Marc
E-Mail:
AIM: FE4Life03
21:55:26 04/27/03
Comments:
I'm at a loss for words, Eric. There are so many things I want to say that cannot be expressed into words of any language. I went to your wake today; and I had butterflies the whole time; not knowing what to feel, what to expect. I cried for you, man. I know you're watching us, I know you care. You were such a happy person, always so cheerful. You have a lot of people down here who care about you and love you with all of their hearts. And they would have no matter what. Take care of yourself for me and make sure we're safe. You'll be missed, buddy. One love.
~Marc
Name: Anonymous
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21:43:28 04/27/03
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I was not a friend of Eric's. Heck, I didn't really know him at all except for a couple of quick glances in the hall. I wish I could have known him better. I cannot even begin to image what you guys are feeling for I feel terrible without even knowing him.
Eric,
I feel so terrible that you felt that this was the last resort. I have been there many times and almost gave up many times. You could have made. I know that you could and so does everyone else. Everyone had faith in you, why couldn't you have faith in yourself. Eric, I sympathize with you for I know exactly what was going through your head at that moment in time. For I myself have attempted suicide. I know that you could think of nothing but the pain you were feeling and how badly you wanted to get out of this world. It was only one horrible day. You were about to graduate with the rest of us. You know when I found out I did something I never did before, I prayed to my dad and asked him to take care to you, Eric. I also asked him to watch over everyone else who is even considering suicide. It is such a terrible and selfish act. Some many people loved you, I wish you could have realized that. I am so torn that you choose that as your answer. School is just not going to be the same without you.
To everyone else,
Please tell someone if you are feeling suicidal because it is just no worth it to anyone. Nobody wins when someone commits suicide, not even the person who did it gets what they want. Also, tell your friends how much you love them even if they seem fine, for a good friend can always read between the lines. That is why I am still here.
I wish this for everyone especially the seniors:
"I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get that fill to eat but always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty-handed
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance...I hope you dance
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin' might mean takin' chances but they're worth takin'
Lovin' might be a mistake but it's worth makin'
Don't let some hell-bent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to sellin' out reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance...I hope you dance
Time is wheel in constant motion always rolling us along.
Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder
where those years have gone.
I hope you dance...I hope you dance
I hope you dance.
Again to the friends and family of Eric my prayers are with you.
Rest in Peace, Eric. You will be missed.
Love always.
Name: Dan
E-Mail:
AIM:
21:21:10 04/27/03
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Hey this is for all the people who mourn Eric's unfortunate passing...Please do not feel this is your fault, there is nothing that could have been done. He chose to do this, HE chose this himself. Do not blame yourselves, there are plenty of reasons, but don't spend time contemplating why, because only Eric would know. This is hard, I am in mourning too. I cannot walk or think straight anymore. It is scary seeing a person so close to you and the same age die. Its like a big nightmare, I cannot even begin to think what his closer friends and family is going through. This is hard for everybody, so guys, seriously, if you have a problem, TALK TO SOMEBODY. There is nothing in life so bad that you would feel you have to kill yourself. Its not worth it. You have your entire life ahead of you. Eric Graf, I'm sorry you couldn't talk to anybody, and I'm sorry this happened to you. Rest in Peace Buddy.
Name: Becca kovacs
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21:13:13 04/27/03
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You probably obviously don't know me but you were my brothers good friend.--Kovacs. and i know i only met you once when you were at my house a couple weeks ago but i never knew i could feel so much pain through a death of some one i barely knew. just to see how much my brother cares for you let alone 500 other people who signed this and your friends and family makes me sad when i see them all hurt. i've seen you in the halls once in a while with a smile always on your face. you seem like a great person and i know im just a freshman but i know everyone here misses and loves you. RIP eric graf all my love goes out to ur family n friends -luv always *becca kovacs *
Name: Natalie Carlascio (again)
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21:11:54 04/27/03
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Wow Kid, not that any wake is good...but that was by far the worst i've been to. Eric, I can't make myself believe that you did this to yourself. I truly believe that people are misconstruing this and it really was an accident. I've come up with so many reasons as to how this doesn't have to be like this. not many make sense...but hey, it's the best i can do. I don't know if I just don't want to believe it, or I truly think that it was an accident. I've lost 11 people in the past 2 years, 8 of them were my friends that I knew...the other 3 were friends of friends or something. Only 1 was old...that was nana. Eric things like this just aren't supposed to happen to people like you. It's not fair. I still don't think it was on purpose that this happened. Eric, Im so afraid to go to English tomorrow. Er, could you please help me. I thought I was fine...I thought i was immune to this...but apparently i'm not. I went to church tonight cuz that's where i go when i get this upset and usually i feel better. for some reason...i can't feel better. I had a dream about you last night, and I woke up in tears. that was the first time i was able to cry about this whole thing. Alrighty Goodbye for now Good Buddy. I hope you are alright.
Love always,
Nat
Name: Kristina S
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21:08:53 04/27/03
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Graf~ When I heard the news, my mouth literally dropped open. I didn't think an awesome, fun loving, HILARIOUS guy like you could do something so unexpected. It's too bad our questions will stay unanswered. I swear, everytime I've driven back into Mokena all I could think about was you, and all I would ask is, why? Last night I looked at your picture in the yearbook and saw how happy you were. What happened? I was so glad I got to know you and hang out with you back in the days. You were so hilarious! I remember one night you and I were gonna jump in the pool together at Schade's but then chickened out cuz it was too cold. Then the party at my house.....you driving the tractor......you could almost pass as a professional farmer! Yeah, I guess i'll admit, your jokes were better than mine....haha! You ALWAYS made me laugh. All my memories of you are good ones and all my future memories to come will be too! Have fun chillin upstairs and watch over us! I'll see you in the future! You'll never be forgotten....R.I.P. Graf
Name: Joe F.
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20:56:22 04/27/03
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I was not a friend...but friends of a friend. R.I.P Eric...u will be missed...by alot of people. I never got to meet u in life...but im lookin forward to meetin u l8r. L8r Red.
Name: ****
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20:44:49 04/27/03
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HEY U! Yeah you. The one with the pill bottle or loaded gun in your hand. Can u stop for a second and think about what you're doing? That bullet will create a hole in your head and that rope will turn your face a cold gray. What's the problem? Too much work? Parents a pain? Did you get dumped? Is it really worth losing a great future over, whatever it may b? Right now you may think so, but 10yrs down the road, when you hold our 1st child in your arms, will u feel the same? Your parents may be total jerks and you might be under pressure, but is it worth finding out what happens when you die? If you want to swallow those pills or drink that bleach, it doesn't seem like you're thinking this through enough.
I've been where you are. Life is like a game show. Sometimes you get a big boat, and sometimes you only get some crummy car wax. ALl you can do is spin the wheel again and hope for a better prize. And you can't say someone doesnt love you, because everyone has someone who loves them. I love you. I love you with all the love a teenager can have.
So, drop that murderer in your hand, wh atever it is and know you will be ok. Things always are.
Love,
Someone who cares.
Name: Amanda
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20:43:43 04/27/03
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Eric~
Like most others i feel like there are no words that can express the amount of grief i feel. Unfortuantely i never had the pleasure of meeting you, but it seems that i am one in a few. For the past few days i have been returning to this site, reading the entrys and often wondering the same things as evryone else. Its hard for people not to blame themselves, evryone always seems to. There are so many things that take place in our lives that no one ever seems to find the answer why, and this seems like one of them. But with all the grief and sorrow that accompanies tragedy i hope that we all can learn. I would hope it is never said that your death had a purpose, but to many of us i think it has opened our eyes. We thank you for every moment you smiled. In the short time you lived, u seem to have affected more people then you realized. Its a shame that you will not be able to grace us with your laughter and smiles. But as you can see although u are not here u still continue to impact all of us. So we not only thank you for your life and for your memories, but we thank you for the lessons we have learned from your death. **To Eric's frieds and family- you will continue to stay in my prayers. i would hope that in the midst of all the grief you would be able to celebrate Eric's life **For all of us-may we not blame ourselves for what has happened, but allow our eyes to be opened. Cherish every moment and always be thankful for what we have been given. Never be afraid to tell someone you love them. Sometimes people care more then you think they do, never be afraid to reach out. And never be afraid to help.
Name: Bower
E-Mail: jrtpeach28@hotmail.com
AIM: Crash2620
20:43:39 04/27/03
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Eric... I'm sure you saw everyone today--- they love you so much, please watch over them always, RIP kiddo....
Dragon tales and the water is wide
Pirate's sail and lost boys fly
Fish bite moonbeams every night
And I love you
Godspeed, little man, Sweet dreams, little man
My love will fly to you each night on angels' wings
Godspeed, Sweet dreams
The rocket racer's all tuckered out
Superman's in pajamas on the coach
Goodnight moon, we'll find the mouse
And I love you
Godspeed, little man, Sweet dreams, little man
My love will fly to each night on angels' wings
Godspeed, sweet dreams
God bless mommy and matchbox cars
God bless dad and thanks for the stars
God heard "Amen" wherever you are
And I love you
Godspeed, little man, Sweet dreams, little man
Oh my love will fly to you each night on angels' wings
Godspeed, Godspeed Godspeed
Sweet dreams....Goodbye Eric <3Ashley
Name: Liz Gallagher
E-Mail: ruffles26@hotmail.com
AIM:
20:43:04 04/27/03
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Graf:
Wow. What can say to someone who I have almost known my whole life? There are so many memories I have of you and you always meant so much to me, we graduated eighth grade together, got confirmed togetherand were on track together. . . Now that was a good time! you did some crazy stuff that got EVERBODY laughing, you were always the one that everyone loved even if they didnt know you all that well. remember when you broke the light fixture of one of those giant lights in the balcony and almost got coach fired?! and when you jumped across the finish line, and how we scuffed up the newly painted walls in the gym with discs? what would track have been like without you?! i really dont think you thought your decision through enough, it doesnt make sense to me and i know that if you would have realized just how many poeple love you as much as they do you wouldnt have done it. As i was standing in the funeral home today i looked around and saw hundreds of faces eric, there were people there from grade school and church and school now and so many people that loved you, there was so much hurt in that room because you will be missed by each and everyone of us. you added to each of our lives and without you none of us would be the same, you left me heartbroken and i know there were people who couldnt bear to admit that you have passed who couldnt even show their face because they were so hurt, all i ask now, buddy, is that you watch over everyone thats hurting and let them know its gonna be OK and that you're hapy where you're at. Especially watch over your Mom, Dad ,Dave and Grandma they all Love you very much.
Peace.
Ill miss you Forever
Name: Sarah
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20:26:01 04/27/03
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Eric, hey im probably the first non friend/family member saying something to you, but even though i was apart of your family you were a friend to me. At all of our family parties you were one of the only people that i wanted to hang with. Your pretty close to my age so i thought you were really cool. I thought that when you grew up you would be someone really big, someone who everyone laugh. I thought to myself, hey you made everyone you knew in town and school happy so why can't you show your love and happiness to the world. An Eric Graf personality cannot and willnot ever be matched up to, what can i say you were a one of a kind guy. All of the times when i saw you in school you just said "hey" but i wish i could have once told you how i felt and how i still feel, and thats the feeling of love. I Love You Eric...
Name: Cam
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AIM: straitrida5
20:11:46 04/27/03
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Well Eric I really wish you knew how much everyone misses you. I don't really know how you could think that it would be worth it. I know you saw how many people went to ur wake, and i wish u would have known how many people care about u man. You are just one of those people that are just loved by everyone. Nobody is taking this well, but i wish you could see your mom, that alone would have told u that its not worth it. I talked to her for a bit and then she started breaking down and gave the biggest hug, and then her and john couldnt even talk it was that hard. Its just not right to be saying my goodbye's to you like that, I guess i just wish you could see everybody that misses you...It's just not gunna be the same... RIP Graf, I miss your tall redheaded ass
Name: Tim Ehrenfeld
E-Mail: TBoneArf@AOL.com
AIM: LodiDodi6
20:07:27 04/27/03
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Sadly I never got the chance to meet Eric, but I wish I had. I recognized some peoples' names on here and could tell that they were touched by Eric. I'm hurt because they hurt. Rest in peace Eric. My deepest sympathies to Eric's family and friends. Don't worry, we're gonna get through this.Talk to each other more. You never know who you could lose tomorrow, because people don't last forever. Good people shouldn't die because of misguidance. How many times are we going to learn the hard way? Take care of eachother. Peace.
Tim Ehrenfeld
Name: -
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20:02:35 04/27/03
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Eric - How could you do this to yourself? You were such a liked guy that i don't see a reason why. And to all ur friends - didn't you guys see this coming? I know he left little hints along his way.. just stop and think about it for a minute.. and i kno that you'll be shocked to come to realize that there was something he said.. or did.. that will make you think 'damn, i guess i do remember that now.. and shouldn't realized it.' just like christie yorke said - he threated to kill himself infront of her - isnt' that enough to make you wonder? don't u think that such a happy guy like that wouldnt' even joke about it? I kno there's nothing we can do now - just live you life for eric now -and carry his name with you. and maybe next time you should be more catious about ur friends and their actions - for i kno i regret not doing some of the things that eric said to me.. my name remains unknown - for i feel sad and hatred towards myself.. sorry eric.. but ur hcoice was stupid and there were ways of help.. but i cannot change what happend.. but i love ya man and will always carry ur name with me. much love.
Name: Moll
E-Mail: molldol00@aol.com
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19:56:16 04/27/03
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*~* Graf *~* WHY? I just started talking to you a couple months ago. I remember the first time I talked to you...Otto yelled at me for not saying hi to him in the hall, and I told him it was because I didn't think he saw me b/c you and some other kids were there talking. Anyway, I went and gave him a hug, and you said, "Oh, we aren't cool enough?!" I told you, "Noo noo, I WISH I was as cool as you guys!". I'd see you there everyday...thinking how much fun it must be to be one of your friends. I know some of them think that they are somehow responsible, and like they should have done something to stop this whole mess. But I hope you can ease their pain, Eric, because no one saw anything bad about you--no signs of anything. I feel guilty taking up space on this page, because like I said, I had just started talking to you, (a "hey" in the hall doesn't make me on the same level as everyone you've known for so long!). But I just got home from your wake, soooo many people Graf, so many...and I wanted to tell every person that was there, that it is not their fault!! And as much as we wish Eric was still here, and it was a horrible nightmare, we have remember all the times he made you laugh (everyday)...To Eric's family--I am so so so sorry for the pain you are going through! You are in my prayers. Oh, Graf, one more thing....I can't lie about it! = I had a HUGE crush on you last year! Yea, I'm not gona lie....sorry, thought I'd throw it in here! Well Graf, it's never gona seem real to anyone...but we know that you're making everyone up there laugh! Could you say hi to Dave for me? It's almost 2 years since he died...thanks Graf. R.I.P buddy...
Name: Emily Rizzuto
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19:51:41 04/27/03
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Eric~
Driving back from your wake today, it finally sunk in that I'm never going to see you again. I guess I was oblivious to that fact this whole time because I have been so used to seeing you at school for the past 12 years. I have never been good friends with you, but I know that you always had a way of making me laugh. You were one of the funniest people I knew growing up. I just don't understand why you would do something like this to yourself. You were a great person and so many people cared about you. As I looked at the collage of pictures of you, a lot of memories came back from grade school and junior high. You always had a smile on your face and was always cracking a joke. I just didn't see this coming, especially from you. I hope you know that today was one of the hardest days that I have ever had in my life and that my prayers go out to you and your family.
With love~
Emily
Name: Nicole Quinn
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19:50:25 04/27/03
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Eric, i don't know what to say. you were the highlight of my day. we had so many laughs. i cannot accept that u are gone. i went to your wake and i have never seen so many sad faces. rachel and i always tried to tell u how many people liked you, but u just dismissed the comment with a wave of your hand. i know that your life was not perfect, no one's is. i am not angry with you for going to this extreme but extremely hurt and confused. u were such a good person. Remeber the corona beads? haha that was good times. i will always remember u as honest, funny, your crazy red shag, and that you were always in a good mood when your boxers matched your shirt haha. heaven is now a better place because of you. i love u. R.I.P.
Name: -----
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19:23:41 04/27/03
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Eric -- I have never met you, & never even heard about you intill this tragety. I am in tears reading all the comments people have made & it makes me realize that I wished I could have known you. Your were acquainteces with my sister & friends with her close friends as well. They have told me what an amazing person you were. I am deeply saddened that I never got the chance to meet you. You were greatly loved & Im praying for you, your friends & your family that you have left behind. I do hope I get to meet you in heaven someday. You are truley missed by everyone & you won't be forgotten Much Love & Prayers to everyone who knew you Eric. Rest in peace & shine down on us from heaven.
Name: Teddy
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19:22:44 04/27/03
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Eric~
Hey I think this really sucks to see every1 that was so close to you hurt so much~I always saw you in school with Tyson and every1. I never took the time to talk to you in school~ But Im glad i got to meet you over break on that Tuesday night~ I called Tyson I was like bring who you want man ~ I was chillin at the end of the driveway while every1 is partying and Tyson came walking down with a tall kid ~ with shaggy red hair with a big ass smile on his face~ We talked and introduced each other~I gave you one of my beers man ~ ha~ Tyson and you were talking about gettingFootes bottle~ Then out of nowhere i see some white crown vic with your shaggy hair hang out and say were getting Footes bottle man ~ I was like hell ya~ Last I ever saw you then i heard the news~ I couldnt believe it was you ~ It sucked man~ Too see my friends crying so much~ wishing they did something~ I learned a lesson man ~ you have to reach out to others more ~ and always treat every1 so much more nicer~ I wish i got that chance to drink that bottle with you guys~ maybe some other time~ Will miss you man~RIP GRAF~
Teddy
Name: John Smith
E-Mail: keebler955@juno.com
AIM: keebler120
19:15:26 04/27/03
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Eric-Eric-Eric... Where to being? I could simply start where everyone else did and say that I never expected this from you, because I didn't. You were an amazing person Eric, you always put other people's feelings before your own. I respected you for that, because I know how much of a burden that doing that can be. Although we weren't the closest of friends, I have a lot of fond memories of you. Lunch last year was by far the best lunch I have had. A day didn't go by where we weren't making fun of each other or making fun of Joyce. Tons of laughs. I'm fine with that money I lent you, you know, the money you never seemed to pay back. All the money I have isn't worth the smiles and memories that you have given me. I could be having the worst day, but I would go to lunch knowing I was going to smile. Your presence could always light someone up, and you lit me up many times.
Thank you Graf. I will see you soon... well, not really soon, but someday I'll see ya again.John (Captain) Smith
Name: .
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19:13:42 04/27/03
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225th message. doesn't that tell u something eric? so many thoughts but i know you're somewhere reading them.
Name: Angela
E-Mail: angelie_481@hotmail.com
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19:05:58 04/27/03
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I am at a loss for words when it comes to this situation.I couldn't imagine what would drive someone to do this. I never even talked to Eric but I can't even believe it. They say everything happens for a reason. It is hard to think about that when something like this happens, But it is true. From reading all of these messages it seems to me that he was just a great guy. Well I never knew him but of course his family and friends are in my prayers. God blessR.I.P- Eric....your already missed and always will be. Angela
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