2018, North Shore Academy, Red Oak Lane, Highland Park, IL, USA
Dawn Blake and I reminiscing on when Brendan and I graduated high school and left our handprint on the wall. His and mine are right next to each other, just as we were throughout high school.
Music, art, nature, and being present in the moment are spiritual endeavors that most of us don't take time to explore. Brendon did, and I can't help but think that his journey brought him great awareness and peace with himself and his surroundings. My heart goes out to his loving family.
Brendan’s kindness remains with us all. He is missed and the love we feel will always be. Jason, Kyle, and Mitchell feel so fortunate to have shared laughter and music on Thanksgiving 2015. To me, he was a friend and fellow nature lover. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Love to all.
Brendan will always have a special place in my heart. I will never forget our talks about life, music, and art. I met Brendan seven years ago and he was a true friend to me in some of my darkest times. He was a light for those around him. My condolences to the Kuker family.
In 2013 a friend and I went to Lollapalooza. We were so disillusioned by all the unfriendly people and bad energy that we had given up on making any friends among the crowd when we made our way to the Perry’s stage. In the back with the flow artists and ravers dancing freely with no fear of judgment we met Brendan, who was such a breath of fresh air amongst the stuck up suburban kids and yuppies. He immediately treated us like old friends and had the brightest, most friendly demeanor that made us feel so comfortable. Brendan and I were both so excited to realize that we were both starting at Columbia the next month so we exchanged numbers before we parted ways that night. I was hyped to know someone going to the same school who was so cool and outgoing! We got together several times over the next year until he continued his journey across the country to explore more places. I’m very grateful for however small amount of time I was able to know Brendan, because he was truly a wonderful and kind human being who anyone would be lucky to spend time with. My deepest condolences to his family and I hope he rests in peace and comfort. His memory will be with all the people he touched for the rest of our lives.
I am so deeply sorry to hear about the loss of Brendan. As you grieve, know that I am remembering Brendan and all of the beautiful memories we had. Although I am at a loss for words, I am with you in thought and prayer and wish you peace and healing as you remember Brendan.
2010, Panera Bread, Wilmette Avenue, Wilmette, IL, USA
Just about every day after school, Brendan and I would meet up at Panera. We had so many memories together, and he was one of my closest friends. The last time I saw him was shortly after graduation, and we were overwhelmingly happy to see each other. I'm glad my last memory with him was so positive. Rest in peace, Brendan.
2012, Highland Park High School, Vine Avenue, Highland Park, IL, USA
Brendan and I celebrating my high school graduation. I was so honored that he spent that entire day with me and even brought me flowers. My heart was so full that day and I know he knew how much that meant to me.