This page on my website is to preserve the memory of my friend and fellow classmate, Dan Rodriguez, a Junior at Port Jervis (New York) High School, who committed suicide on the night of May 10, 2000. The teachers spread the word to the students on May 11, 2000. It was very surprising news and the whole school was--is--in a state of shock. I just had to do something--even something this insignificant--to feel just a little better about all this. So, don't think I'm obsessed or anything; Dan played his guitar, and I write.
Dan was a very nice person, and always put others before himself. He was a bit of a class clown and had a big mouth. However, instead of making his teachers mad, he made them laugh. He made everyone laugh. Even me on my worst of days. He was also in the school chorus and he played the guitar and trumpet. He appeared to be another normal, happy kid.
The last time I saw him, he was just as happy as usual, except he was trying extra hard for attention. Now that I think about it, our teacher should have sent him to the guidence counselor, not the principal. Still, this is something no one can change, and the least I can do is honor his memory. Thank you.
Church Service: May 11, 2000
Wake: May 12, 2000
Church Service and Funeral: May 13, 2000
~~~The students of Port Jervis High School will miss you, Dan.~~~
~"As we go on, we remember all the times we had together. And as our lives change, from whatever, we will still be friends forever."~ "Graduation"--Vitamin C.
The Lord is my sheperd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
To read the Memoir from the Times Herald Record, Orange County, New York, click Here.
A poem I wrote for Dan: "How do You Tell a Friend?"
A very inspiring and helpful story: Footprints.
To visit our Town's site, click Here.
To donate to the Daniel L. Rodriguez Memorial Fund, click Here.
To get back to my home page, click Here.