daniel o'neil (1984-2007)

4-16-07. we lost 32, 9 from a class of mostly our grad students. one of whom was a good friend.

before i got to know dan, he was probably the last person i would want to hang out with because he doesn't play poker nor does he drink as much as most of us do. but hardly did i know that we had a lot in common. from chuck palahniuk to damien rice, from driving aimlessly to ray lamontagne, and, of course, the decemberists. just about two weeks ago, he and i drove a total of 500 miles just to see the decemberists and it was during this 8 hour drive that i got to know how great of a person this kid on my passenger seat was.

most of my previous encounters with dan involved him needing a ride back to his apartment or him keeping everyone from using the toilet. but in contrast to his lightweight drinking skills is his strong enthusiasm in doing the right thing.  i remember how hard it was to convince him to skip a class, to miss his consultation hour, and to pick up a vice (which he never did). he became this little brother to us, the one you want to keep away from bullies and pricks. you root for his goodness to be kept  pristine, and it has and will always be.

dan, funny how i tease you about your mushy songs and cheesy lyrics,  but now they are the ones that give me comfort on this awfully sad moment. the ride goes on, our trip goes on my friend. we love you dan and for sure you'll be forever missed.