I can still remember your face and how you used to run up and greet everyone. You never knew a stranger and depending on the day and who was around us, the conversations could go from serious to hilarious. I can still hear your little sayings and phrases, but most of all I can still envision you hanging out with the group like you were still here.

It's been a little over a year since you passed but it hasn't gotten much easier. I still think of you almost everyday, and I come to visit your grave site often just to make sure it looks decent. I wish I could have just one more conversation with you, because you always gave me great encouragement.

You would've graduated with all of your friends this year, but the school was considerate enough to still print out your diploma for your mom. I believe it did her well to hear your name being called with the rest of the class. I really wish you were there to walk with us, but I know you were there in spirit.

You didn't deserve what happened to you, I'd do anything to bring you back. Going through senior year after a tragedy like that, seeing how it affected everyone really took its toll on everybody. Our friend group was closer than ever for a while, then all of a sudden it kind of fell apart. I think the saying is true, time tears people apart. One thing does bring us all together though - you.

I want something positive to come of your death. I don't want the short life you lived to be for nothing, because you had a beautiful personality. You inspired your friends and after your death the whole entire class of 2016 came together to remember you. You had a major impact on me personally, and I am thankful for that everyday.

You were a great father, son, brother and friend. You were always so loyal and honest. I'm mostly sorry you never got to meet your daughter, but I have to tell you - she is very beautiful. You would've loved her, as she would've loved you.

I miss our friendship and how you used to make me laugh. I miss how close everyone used to be and how simple things were. Maybe it's just everyone growing up, but I have the feeling if you were around you wouldn't let everyone just fall apart. That's just the person you were. I miss having you around.

The day you died a piece of our group died along with you that we'll never get back. I hope the life you lived was everything you wanted and more, but most importantly I hope you're in heaven watching over every single one of us down here. We love and miss you so much. I hope we see you again someday.