Erin Melissa O'Donnell, age 20, of Cedar Road, Hellertown PA, died Saturday, October 12, 2002 at the Lehigh Valley Hospital Center, Salisbury Township PA.
Born in Summit NJ, she was the Daughter of Thomas R. and Sharon Lynn (Colasanti) O'Donnell, with whom she resided. She was a Student at Kutztown State University, majoring in Criminal Justice. She was a 2000 Graduate and Honor Student at Saucon Valley School District.
She is survived by her Parents; Brother, Ian T. at home; Sister, Rebekah A. at home; Maternal Grandmother, Paula (Rebello) Colasanti of Manchester NJ and Paternal Grandmother, Gloria F. (Brautigaum) Squires of New Providence NJ.
A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 16, 2002 in the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., 326 Main Street, Hellertown PA. Family and Friends may call 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday in the Funeral Home. Interment will be private at the convenience of the Family.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Borough of Hellertown Parks Department care of the Funeral Home, 326 Main St, Hellertown PA 18055.
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Dear Erin,
It's been over a year and i still dont believe you are gone. It seemes only yesterday you were at my house with me-ma becka aunt sharron and uncle tom on christmas eve. i love you and i always will. i know you are happy where you are with be-bop and lady. the only person i could talk about lord of the rings with was you. every time i watch it i think of you. when i get in fights with my friends at school i think of you and what would you do. You were the most caring person i knew. I still have nightmare about the day i learned. i still rember everything that happened. i think of you every thime i hear you'll be in my heart
i love you erin i always will. you were my dear cousin and you still are. i miss you and love you
fover love,
lisa
Hopewell, nj
Thursday, December 04, 2003 5:25 PM EST
Erin, I want you to know that so many people miss you. It's taken me a long time to be able to get these words out. You are an amazing person, I only wish I took the time to tell you that when I could. I took for granted that you would always be here. I miss your passion for life, and your appreciation of the little things. You are the most passionate person that I know. You truly cared about so many people. You where always there to lend an ear and you always tried to make the people around you happy. As long as I live I will never meet anyone who listened like you did and I want you to know that your friendship meant so much to me, and I regret not letting you know that. I have to believe that you are somewhere better than here because if anyone deserves it you do. I miss you, my thoughts are with you and your family, please know that you will never be forgotten
Tuesday, July 29, 2003 11:26:53 PM EST
Erin,
9 months have passed since that horrible day but I have not stopped thinking about you. Everyday someone or something reminds me of you... sometimes I cry, sometimes I laugh, and sometimes I just smile. Everyone at work loves sharing memories of you - and I honestly think it helps me through each day a little bit.
The plans for the memorial are coming underway - finally. HD isn't known for having the most intelligent people - but we're finally getting things together... mainly because I was being a pain in the ass and bugging everyone. Your mom met me there one day and we picked out the pavers and wall stones - it's going to be beautiful. The store manager is the last person I had to talk to - he is getting authorization and hopefully we will get this project underway.
It was really nice to see your mom, as always. I am trying to convince myself that she is not a scary person and that I don't have to be afraid to talk to her... I think I'm almost there. You would probably yell at me for how nervous I get around her... and I know that you are laughing at me in heaven everytime too.
Your friends are truly amazing - Eilidh, Heather, Trisha, Desiree, and the others I haven't met. They have helped me to realize that I am not the only one grieving and that I'm not crazy for having trouble getting through the day sometimes. I am really glad that I met them, although I would give anything to have met them under different circumstances.
Eilidh took me down to your telephone pole, which we are trying to re-name so that we don't have to say "accident" or "crash site". It looks beautiful with all the things people have left. It was hard to be there - but at the same time, it was comforting - like you were there with us. Beth wants me to take her down there so she can see how nice it is and so that she can talk to you. We will be down soon.
I am getting ready to go back to school... I leave in a few weeks. I am getting a tattoo before I go back - one in memory of you. It's going to be gorgeous... it will have a rose and a tribal design and your name will be written in green and will intertwine with the vines. I don't know what color to make the rose... yellow? white? Send me some kind of sign and let me know what you think.
Well, I better get going before I write a novel on here. Even though you are not here with us - you are still teaching me a lot. I always think of what you would say or do in a situation - or how you would yell at me about it! So... I'm writing this because I just wanted to let you know that I still think about you everyday. Love and miss you lots.
Nunca te olvidare...
Siempre estaras en mi corazon y en mis sueños...
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA
Saturday, July 12, 2003
Hey, Just wanted to write a quick hello. I called your house the other day and got to talk to Rebekah. We were chatting on the phone forever. It's so weird speaking with her because I swear it's you on the phone. I invited your family to come over to my picnic for the 4th of July. Your mom, Rebakah and Adam came over. I think they had a good time, I hope so at least. I have to tell you this, Greg's mom came up to me and said, "Your friend really liked those brownies." She was talking about your sister!! I thought that was so funny. Well, just wanted to write a quick hello. Miss you and think about you all the time.
-Eilidh
Allentown, pa USA
Monday, July 07, 2003
Miss you more than words can describe.
Eilidh
Allentown, pa USA
Thursday, June 26, 2003
Erin,
I am finally back in PA. Well, I got here on May 12th... and I have been working at the Depot every since - or so it seems. I love the fact that everyone still wears your ribbons - it is nice to know how loved you were... you will never be forgotten. I asked Marilyn why she didn't wear her ribbon anymore and she said she didn't want to remember you by a black ribbon anymore - I think she has a point, but I'm not ready to take mine off my apron yet. She then had tears in her eyes and said "It's hard to believe that there is nothing left of her..." I, along with many others completely understand that statement because I have said it myself... but I know that in a way you still are here - because you are watching over us. It was really hard to go back knowing that you weren't going to be there to calm me down when the customers piss me off, make fun of people (customers and other employees), gossip, and of course - do what you do best - be a friend... a best friend really. You know... I wonder how many people consider you a best friend - I know I do, and I know of a few others. You are just an absolutely and truly amazing person - I would do anything to have you back with us. I'm sorry, but it is hard for me to refer to you in the past tense...
I finally got together with Eilidh, Heather, and Trisha. Desiree came the first time too - and they are all such awesome people... together they are hilarious, and individually they are all extremely special - and each has a certain quality or characteristic that reminds me of you - I can understand why you considered them friends. Last week we went out to dinner and your mom came with us - it was so great to see her. I had to admit I was incredibly nervous because I have not seen her since sometime in August... and I didn't know what to say to her. The last thing I wanted to do was say the wrong thing - but she was so comforting and it was wonderful to talk to her. I told her that I think we finally have the ball rolling to get things in order regarding your memorial and Home Depot's donations. Mr. Benner told me to make a list and he'll take care of it. I'm really excited because everything is going to be beautiful!!
My sister, brother-in-law, and my nieces arrived on Friday. Madison will be 2 on the 12th and Savanna will be 9 months on the 11th. They are both so adorable... I'm going to miss them when they go back to Portugal. I am making the most out of the next 3 weeks - and I wish that you were here so we could take them (at least Madison) shopping or to Sesame place or something.
I am going to the Nascar race in the Pocono's this weekend. I am hoping that I will get to meet some driver's again this year - especially Dale Jr. and Tony Stewart... hopefully I don't have to climb any fences and I won't get mixed up with some handcuffs or something for "stalking" either of them. Haha... that is what everyone thinks will happen.
Well, I should get going. I know you are watching out for so many people... you are probably busy. I have one request - please visit me in my dreams sometime soon - even if it's a quick visit. I admit - I was kind of spooked the first time, but it was comforting as well. Hopefully I will see you soon... in my dreams. Miss you and love you lots.
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA
Monday, June 02, 2003
Hi y'all. Writing to you from good old Georgia State. I came down here to visit my dad. It is the first vacation down here since I came with you in high school. I have to admit it was hard walking through the front door without you by my side. As I was unpacking, I was reflecting on the time we came down here. I could picture you plunging that toilet. My dad caught me laughing out loud. I tried to explain why you were plunging the toilet but then I would have to confess it was because I got the toilet jammed up with cigarette butts! I couldn't do that! I showed my dad the scrapbook of all of our pictures. I overheard him say to his neighbor that you were "a great wee lassie" and that he misses you very much. He loved your wicked sense of humor. That's why the two of you got along so well.
I had a great time visiting here. We drove down to New Orleans. You would have loved it. Mardi Gras 24/7.
Fact is, I would have done anything to have you here with me. I know you are looking over me and I thank you for that. I miss you very much and think about you all the time. Your friend forever in mourning, Eilidh
Dear Lord, welcome this traveler who has roamed the whole world with an eager and observant eye and a responsive heart.
Welcome as she goes forth now on a journey to a new place.
Help me to accept the fact that Erin is parting from me now traveling far away from me, and help me to hope that we will be rejoined some day.
-Joan Bel Geddes
God, welcome my friend who I already deeply miss through the narrow gate and across the wide, deep river into your kingdom.
God, in your great mercy grant Erin my friend, safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at last.
Amen.
-Jim Cotter and Harold Ivan Smith
Eilidh
Carrollton, GA USA
Monday, June 02, 2003
Hi y'all, Ha ha I'm writing this letter to you from my dad's computer in good ol Georgia State. The last time I was here on vacation was with you. I have to admit it was hard walking into this house without you by my side. Even if I tried to hold it back, I can't. All the memories came flooding back. As I'm getting myself situated in my room I can picture you plunging that toilet. I was laughing out loud and my dad caught me. I tried to explain but I didn't want to confess that the reason the toilet was clogged was because I was trying to hide the fact that I was smoking and you were trying to help me out. Always there for me, thanks by the way.
I think about you all the time and a smile always appears on my face. I showed my dad that scrapbook of mine. I have all our pictures in there. He was laughing because he was recalling your wicked sense of humor. He was telling his neighbor about you. I overheard him say, "Be upset you never met her." Then he was talking about that James "can cut a wedding cake with his nose" Dickey. He loved the fact that you made fun of that kid. Between my dad and you, he did not stand a chance.
I miss you a thousand times over. I wear the necklace that Trisha gave me. It's a locket with your picture in it. I wear it everyday for good luck. So far it's worked. There have been a few incidents that I knew I had a guardian angle watching over me.
I miss you. Your friend forever in mourning, Eilidh
Carrollton, GA USA
Monday, June 02, 2003
Hello! I wanted to tell you about our little get together the other night. Jen and I have been emailing each other for months now and we finally arranged to meet at my place. Heather and Des came over, too. Trisha couldn't make it because she had to work. We had such a great time though. Jen fits right in. I can understand why you considered her a friend. It's amazing how alike we all are. Jen and a lady from Home Depot are coordinating a list of flowers to donate to your memorial. It's so kind of Home Depot to offer their services. Although we had such a great time, it was hard for us all too. We all wish you could have been a part of it. The thing that we all have most in commom is that all our hearts are aching. We are all 20somethings who have not experienced a death before. Of course some of us have buried older relatives like our grandparents, but not someone as young as you. Erin, you were so special and your friendship meant a lot to us. Even this morning, as I was thinking about you, I cried trying to comprehend that you are gone. It's too hard of an idea to grasp. I miss you. I love you. Please visit me in my dreams.
Your friend forever in mourning, Eilidh
Allentown, PA USA
Saturday, May 17, 2003
Erin,
Today marks 7 months. It amazes me that it is only 7 months. It feels more like 7 years since I heard your laugh or witnessed your smile. I called your mom today, I try to call her often to keep up with how she and the rest of your family is doing. Your mom had me laughing hysterically. Still, at the same time, it's hard for me because they way she talks or enuciates is exactly the way you did. Same thing with your dad, too.
Anyway, your friend/co-worker from Home Depot, Jen, is home from school and we are getting together this week. Heather, Trisha and I are excited to meet her. She told me she had such a vivid dream about you the other day. We all have different moments where we remember things we've done with you, or dreams we've experienced and we all love hearing stories about you.
I talk to my dad about you too, in fact my brother has taken the wrong path, again, and seems to be in trouble. I pray that nothing happens to him. Please look over him as you do with me. Please guide him, Erin. I've lost you, I can't lose another sibling. Well, I'm a wreck without you. The tears are streaming down my face right now. I know you can listen to me and you are there for me. Eerily enough, the song that I heard everytime I pulled away from the accident scene, which I refer to as "our song", just started playing on the radio. Thanks for listening. Thank you for everything. Your friend forever in mourning, Eilidh
Allentown, PA USA
Monday, May 12, 2003
Erin
It has been awhile since I last wrote to you. I think about you alot. I wish I would of got a chance to see you more often when you were here. I read your tributes all the time. You were a very special friend to alot of people. It is nice to know that you touched so many lives when you were here. I was at Home Depot the other day and I was looking around wondering where you would be and thinking if Erin was here she would be able to help us. Then I realized you were not there. I looked around at the people working there wondering if any of them knew you. You are missed and loved by alot of people. I see your mom alot when she comes into the Giant shopping. She is a wonderful person and I know she is hurting so much. There is going to be a memorial for you in the park sometime in July. That is something I will not miss. I hope you are happy where you are and are looking down on all of us. I guess you know Sarah is pregnant. She is due sometime in the middle of June. She has been having some problems with her pregnancy. It is good to know she has a guardian angel like you looking over her. Josh is starting to move on with his life. I am happy for him and I hope you are too. He still misses you tremendously. Please watch over him and help him to make the right decisions. I know he will always love you and you will always be near to his heart. Well Erin you rest now. I love and miss you.
Love Brenda
Hellertown, PA USA
Friday, April 25, 2003
Erin,
I know you are laughing at my entry from yesterday because I said that Savanna was 5 months as of Friday - she was actually 7 months. That is why I was wondering if you had seen a picture of her... because if she was 5 months then she would have been born a month after you passed away. You can tell I wasn't really thinking when I wrote that... nothing out of the ordinary. Anyways... I just wanted to clear that up so that if anyone else reads that they don't think I'm crazy!! Well, I better get back to studying - I don't know how I even realized about that mistake... but I did.
Here's some lyrics from a song I heard the other day that made me think of you... It's Aaliyah's "Miss you".
It's been too long and I'm lost without you...
What am I gonna do...
Wondering if you're the same and who's been with you...
I wanna cry sometimes...
I miss you.
Miss you and love you lots,
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA USA
Sunday, April 13, 2003
Erin,
Today is 6 months that you have left us... but it feels like it's been 6 years - or more. It is still hard to believe that it happened and that you are gone. I just wanted to let you know that I think of you everyday and that I will continue to do so.
My sister sent me new pictures of my nieces yesterday. Madison is getting so big... and Savanna is absolutely adorable. Savanna is 5 months as of yesterday and Madison will be 2 in June. I never thought of this before... but I wonder if you got to see a picture of Savanna. I really hope you did... and knowing my dad - he had plenty of pictures to show everyone at work.
Well, I only have a little over 3 weeks of school left. I'm really excited to be going home... to meet some great people who you considered friends and to go down to your memorial site. It is going to be beautiful and I am one of the many who plan to keep it that way.
I often wonder what could have been... and what should have been. I remember how you said you were going to come visit me at school, but that never happened. Everyone down here wishes they could have met you - every now and then I tell them stories about you, they think you seem like a great person. They're right - they never met you and they know how wonderful you are. I wish that they all could have met you. Well, that is just one thing I wish I could change... there are many others but it would take me forever to write them. I will just say that I am and will be forever greatful that I met you and that we became good friends because of everything you taught me and helped me with. I know I write this everytime, but it's the truth. Well, I just wanted to leave you a little something to let you know I am thinking about you. I hope that you are happy where you are right now... keep on watching over everyone because we appreciate it.
Miss you and love you lots,
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA USA
Saturday, April 12, 2003
Some people become friends and even though they only stay a little while, they leave beautiful footprints on our hearts forever.
Thinking of You.
Love, Heather
Heather Johnson
Hellertown , Pa USA
Tuesday, April 01, 2003
Dear Erin,
There are a few things that I wanted to keep you updated on. Every time I've written to you I wanted to tell you some things but have forgotten. One of the things I wanted to tell you was that Trisha got me a beautiful silver locket for Christmas. She put in your picture. It's the picture of you and Josh at a wedding. Poor Josh though, she cut him out in the picture. I wear it every day. People always ask me what's in my locket and when I show them your picture they comment on how beautiful you are. I wanted to get it engraved but I'm worried about leaving it at some store. I'm afraid they will lose it. I don't know exactly what I should get engraved anyway. How does "Friends Forever" sound?
Your mom has kept me updated on what's going on with your park. She said about how benches engraved. In years to come, it'll be so nice to spend a sunny afternoon, sitting on the benches with Heather, Trisha and Jen, sharing stories about you. I can't wait. The only thing is they are looking to be done by end of May, beginning of June. I've taken a few days off of work to go see my dad in Georgia. I'm worried I might miss it. If need be, I'll hijack a plane to be there for you.
I've been emailing Jen back and forth for a few weeks now. I can see why you were friends with her. She's such a sweetheart. We plan on meeting when she's back home from school. I told Heather and Trisha about her and they seem pretty excited to meet her, too. The three of us, Heather, Trisha and myself, have been getting together on a regular basis. It's not the same without you though.
Another "new" thing is that Greg and I got approved for an apartment. It's so much nicer than where we are now. No more thugs! We officially move at the end of April. I'm so excited but I'm dreading packing everything up. I have so much crap now I wonder how much I'll have in 20 more years. But this place we are moving to is soooo much nicer. Swimming pool, tennis courts, central air...the works! Although I will probably end up missing the old place. It was my first place all on my own. I can walk into my house now and I can just picture you and Josh sitting on my couch just hanging out. I still have the gifts you gave me for my housewarming and don't worry, they will come along to the new place with me. One day, a few months back, Trisha was over and I showed her that my salt n pepa shakers were given to me by you. She then raided my kitchen looking for this pot that she said the two of you had gotten me.
Well, I'm at work I guess I should actually work once in a while. I just want you to know that yesterday I thought about you and hundred times. Today I thought about you at least two hundred times. Tomorrow I'm sure I'll think about you a hundred times and the day after that won't differ. In my heart I know that for the rest of my life, 5 years, 10 years, 50 years from now, I will miss you a little more each day. I will miss you as much as the first moment I realized I'd never see you again.
I'm reading this book that was recommended to me. It's called "When bad things happen to good people". It discusses God's relationship to us in our daily lives and that when bad things do happen to good people. I'm trying to get a better understanding as to why this might have happened to such a beautiful person with such great potential. The whole ironic part of it all, is that I come across a word I don't understand and the first person I think of to define the word for me is you. Well, I better sign off because I soak this keyboard with me tears. Wherever you are right now, I pray that you are happy and safe and having a wonderful time. I'm sure right now you are planning a cruel practical joke on someone. Only a few select people truly understood your sense of humor. Enjoy April Fool's Day.
Love you and miss you, Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Monday, March 31, 2003(EST)
Erin,
It feels like forever since I have written you something, so here I am. School is finally winding down and I can go back to PA for the summer. I have plans to meet up sometime after I get home with your friend Eilidh and I believe Heather and Trisha as well. Eilidh and I have been e-mailing back and forth and I called her yesterday. She seems like a great person and by how I hear her talk about you - she seems very sincere, loving, and honest. I'm looking forward to meeting her and everyone else.
Home Depot is going to donate items to your memorial in the park. I am so happy because you are going to have the most beautiful memorial ever created - we all are going to make sure of that. There are people from work who are going to volunteer to help put everything together too... we sure do work with great people and they all miss you a lot. I know when I was home over break there were a lot of people still sharing stories about you - their memories, the crazy things you did, and what they miss about you. I have to agree with my dad that whenever I think about you your infectious smile and laugh always come to mind. I think that is the best word to descibe it too... infectious.
Everday there is something that reminds me of you. It might be the smallest thing like listening to an Aztek Trip song and remembering our long hike to get to their concert at Musikfest. That is enough to put a smile on my face when I am feeling upset. I can never tell you how happy I am that we got the chance to become friends and share the memories that I will always hold dear to my heart. I know that I tell you that almost everytime I write... but that is something that I want you to know. I also want you to know that I will never forget you simply because you are unforgettable.
"When my life is through and the angels ask me to recall the thrill of them all, then I shall tell them I remember you."
Love a miss you lots,
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA USA
Saturday, March 29, 2003
Erin,
I know I've said this time and time again but I just want you to truly understand how MUCH you are missed and how often I think about you. I think about you ALL the time. I think about all the memories we've shared together. I think about that awful day that you left us. I think about what might have been. I think about the future we would have shared together. There's so much in one day that reminds me of you. I see a VW bug and think, "What color would she have chosen?" I hear someone say something about rednecks and that makes me think of the coolest redneck in the world. And we met him! I wonder what my life will end up like without you.
I emailed your friend Jen that you worked with. I've enjoyed emailing her back and forth. She shares the same feelings as me and understands what I'm rabbling about. I can understand why you had chosen her as a friend. She's at school right now but we plan on getting together when she's home. I told Heather and Trisha about her and they seem excited to meet her too.
Heather and I went to visit you last weekend. On Saturday we bought a bunch of supplies to make this angel for you. On Sunday we got together, made it (actually I kinda just watched. Heather did it all! Hee Hee) We got down there and cleaned up the area a little bit. The angel looks awesome if I say so myself. Heather was really proud of it too. It's officially spring and we plan on visiting more often. I swear. I'd like to put a bed of flowers around the telephone pole. Give me a sign of what kind of flowers you would like. I don't know why but when I think of you, I think of anything dark purple. There's so much to say and write but I just wanted to let you know that you are thought of by many each moment of the day. I love you, take care. Eilidh
Eilidh
Bethlehem, Pa USA
Saturday, March 22, 2003
Hi there Erin,
I remember first meeting you at the Home Depot. I'll always remember that infectious smile and laugh, which could light up a room. I'm sure it often did light up a room and make people happy. I'll always remember you asking "Hey Walt, do you have any candy", since I almost always had some in my HD apron. I wasn't the only one with a sweet tooth.
I'm so glad that you and Jen became best of friends. It means alot to her to have known you. Even now that your gone it's especially important that when she's alone that she has someone watching out for her and someone to talk with about things that are important to her. Thank you for being part of her life and mine.
My good friend Frank past away last year. I'm sure you've met him by now. He's a big six and half man with an infectious smile and laugh...just like you. Be careful though because he's quite the jokester and will play a practical joke on you. He'll look out for you. He was a caring man who did alot for us all and whenever you thanked him he'd always say "that's what friends are for". He liked to listen to Neil Diamond and really wasn't into Pink Floyd like you and me.
Speaking of music, there's one song that always reminds me of him and now reminds me of you. Every time I hear it my eyes well up with tears and one or two often roll down my cheeks. I've included the lyrics to Jackson Browne's - For a Dancer which are:
Keep a fire burning in your eye
Pay attention to the open sky
You never know what will be coming down
I don't remember losing track of you
You were always dancing in and out of view
I must have thought you'd always be around
Always keeping things real by playing the clown
Now you're nowhere to be found
I don't know what happens when people die
Can't seem to grasp it as hard as I try
It's like a song I can hear playing right in my ear
That I can't sing
I can't help listening
And I can't help feeling stupid standing 'round
Crying as they ease you down
'Cause I know that you'd rather we were dancing
Dancing our sorrow away
(Right on dancing)
No matter what fate chooses to play
(There's nothing you can do about it anyway)
Just do the steps that you've been shown
By everyone you've ever known
Until the dance becomes your very own
No matter how close to yours
Another's steps have grown
In the end there is one dance you'll do alone
Keep a fire for the human race
Let your prayers go drifting into space
You never know what will be coming down
Perhaps a better world is drawing near
And just as easily it could all disappear
Along with whatever meaning you might have found
Don't let the uncertainty turn you around
(The world keeps turning around and around)
Go on and make a joyful sound
Into a dancer you have grown
From a seed somebody else has thrown
Go on ahead and throw some seeds of your own
And somewhere between the time you arrive
And the time you go
May lie a reason you were alive
But you'll never know
Stephen Girard, Founder of Girard College in Philadelphia said, "My deeds must be my life, when I am dead my actions must speak for me". I graduated from there in 1963. That saying is something I've always remembered and even now forty years later that statement still has meaning for me. For the brief time you were with us your beauty, charm and personality touched many lives and made a difference in all of us.
I just know your life made a difference. It's now up to us to carry on and make a difference. It's now up to us to throw some seeds of our own.
Jen tells me that there are plans to build a memorial for you in the park in Hellertown. I hope they do because I plan to go the park, sit in the warmth of the sun, listen to Pink Floyd and Jackson Browne songs, look up at the clear blue sky and see your face in the clouds.
I love you and miss you very much!!!!!!!
Kisses, kisses, hug!!
Walt
Bethlehem, PA USA
Thursday, March 13, 2003
It takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but an entire life to forget them.
I MISS YOU.
Love, Heather
Heather
Hellertown, Pa USA - Thursday, March 13, 2003
Hey Erin,
Well, it's been 5 months today. I think each day I miss you more and more. I'm writing just to say Hello and that I miss you.
Heather and I are getting together this weekend to make an angel for your telephone pole. I'm sorry I haven't been down to visit their more often but I'm sure you understand why. I know I can get myself there physically but it's hard emotionally. Well, just wanted to let you know I'll be down this weekend to say Hello. Most likely it'll be on Sunday. See you then and feel free to send me more signs along the way. Love, Eilidh
Eilidh
Bethlehem, Pa USA
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Dear Erin,
It is hard to believe that it has been over 4 months that this world has been without you. I really miss you and I think about you everyday. The past few times I have gone to see my friend Melissa she has been watching "Trading Spaces", which automatically makes me think of you. I still remember when you told me about them coming into Home Depot - you were so excited!! There is also a girl on campus that looks a lot like you - and I see her everyday. It's almost as if she's following me… and sometimes I feel that you're trying to send me a message letting me know that you are not going anywhere and that you'll still be there for me when I need you.
I have been trying to get on with my life - but it seems as though something is missing. Everyday I wake up feeling like I forgot to do something... that confused and empty feeling. Some people don't understand that it doesn't matter how long you know someone... that doesn't determine how much you will miss them. We didn't know each other that long... but you were one of those people who no one can ever forget... I will always consider you one of the greatest friends I have ever had - and ever will have. When I heard this song the other day it made me think of you… so here are some of the lyrics:
Every now and then
we find a special friend
who never lets us down
who understands it all
reaches out each time you fall
you're the best friend that I've found
I know you can't stay
but part of you will never ever go away
your heart will stay...
I just wanted to write you a little something to let you know that I'm still thinking about you. I love and miss you lots.
Love,
~Jen
Bethlehem, Pa USA
Friday, February 21, 2003
Dear Erin,
I haven't written in nearly a month and I didn't want to let it go on any further. I wanted to write just to say Hello. It's been over 4 months since the day you left us and I swear it's been 40 years. People probably say this all the time, but I think about you all the time. I thought I ws doing pretty good for a while there. I was able to say your name without breaking down and crying my eyes out. But I still have this empty hole where my heart used to be.
I started going to these scrapbooking classes with Greg's sister-in-law. I got hooked. I was so excited to finish the pages of you and me. In fact, I've been carting it around everywhere showing people our pictures. I even showed it to some perfect strangers who thought it was great. I can't help it, I am so excited it's done. I've dedicated my book to you. I did a page layout of our trip to Georgia. I'm so glad we went on that trip. Any trip to Walmart and the memories come flooding back. I can never look at a redneck straight faced again because of you.
I was cleaning the other day and came across an old address book. There was also some pictures of you in there. It was such a pleasant surprise. Of course you weren't posing like a nice young woman, you were making your infamous face. You were definitely unlike any other person in the world. THAT's for sure!!!
Well, life without you just hasn't been the same. As I sit here typing it's still so hard to grasp the fact that we won't see each other for a very long time. I miss you. Please look after my friends and family, and if you could, please make all this snow melt soon.
Love, Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Erin,
I used to wonder all the time, probably much more than a normal person would, what happens when one leaves this world. I used to be afraid it was the end. Since you, I have no fear at all anymore. You can't come into this life, affect so many, be loved by so many, touch their hearts, even their souls and just be gone.
Even though we can't see you, you are with us, I believe that stronger than anything I have ever believed in my life. It gives me peace and hope. I miss you. We had a good freindship, but more than anything, I miss the promise of how great our freindship would have become. The world was a better place with you in it. I read this poem the other day. It made me think of you so I read it over and over. It made me realize you have suceeded in life far beyond some people who live til they're 100. I hope you like it.
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty;
To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed
easier because you have lived;
That is to have succeeded.
Erin, you left behind gifts of inspiration and precious memories to all of us still here, and for that I am eternally grateful.
I miss you.
Love, Heather
Hellertown, Pa USA
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Erin,
Just wanted to write a quick hello. I wake every morning with these huge unbelievable question, "Is she REALLY gone?" So many times I've woken up thinking, "Oh what a horrible dream." And then the reality sets in. It sucks! There's soooo many times during the day when I hear someone say or do something and a memory pops into my head. All I want to do is call you on the phone and say, "Do you remember the time when..." So, anyway, I'm trying to think of things to keep you updated on. The holiday season pretty much sucked. Christmas was alright. I just wasn't in the mood for it. New Year's was pretty cool though. I FINALLY turned 21. You were always great about calling me on my bday and making a big deal of it. No one did that this year. I was waiting for your call, like a retard, and by the end of the afternoon, it hit me. You were never going to call again. That's when it really truly hit me. I miss you so much. Words cannot describe.
I've never been a church-goer before but now I'm trying to make it every week. I've been going with your mom, Josh's mom and his sisters. Trish has been trying to go too but I think her work schedule interfers. You'd be proud of Trish. She's back in school, just like she said she would be. We've been hanging out like old times, when we can. Whenever we do though, we laugh and cry together. She's been great to talk to thru all of this. Anyway, nothing else is really going on. Just wanted to write a quick hello, let you know that you're missed and not forgotten. See you in my dreams, Love Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Sunday, January 19, 2003
Erin,
A day doesn't go by that I do not think of you. I can still see your pretty smile and hear you talk. The holidays with the family were not the same this year. Everyone was thinking about you. Josh isn't the same. I wish things would get easier for him, but he misses you so much. I check this website everyday to look at your picture and I still can't believe that you are gone. I keep thinking about your family and Josh. I wish there was something I can do for them to make this easier. I can't believe it is 3 months that you are gone. I just want you to know you will always be in my heart and in my thoughts. I will never forget you. I love and miss you Erin.
Love
Brenda
Hellertown, PA USA
Sunday, January 12, 2003
Erin,
I can't even believe how time is flying by. The last time I wrote to you was over two months ago... but that doesn't mean I have forgotten you. I could never forget you...
I went back to work over break and it seemed wrong to be there because I knew you weren't going to be there with me. Everyone still wears their ribbons in your honor and we all share stories about the crazy things you used to do... then we all smile. Everyone misses you so much - and they were all understanding when I couldn't help but cry one of my first days back because I miss you so much. It is really not the same at work - or in everyday life - without you.
I remember talking to Beth and her saying "I wish I was lucky enough to know Erin like you did"... and with as short of a time as I knew you I do consider it luck. I was lucky to meet someone as special and wonderful as you were. You helped me through so much and I will never forget everything you did for me.
You were always selfless and approached every situation from a positive light... by being this way, being you, you taught me so much - helped me to realize that it is often better to give than to receive, to help people when I can, to show everyone love, and not to express hate. I bet you don't even realize that I learned all of this from you - but it is the truth. I could never thank you enough for all that you have taught me and helped me with... I appreciate, love, and miss you more than words can say.
~Jen
Bethlehem, PA USA >BR> Monday, January 06, 2003
Here is a poem I discovered online...
When God calls little children
to dwell with Him above.
We mortals sometime question
the wisdom of His love.
For no heartache compares with
the death of one small child.
Who does so much to make our world
seem wonderful and mild.
Perhaps God tires of calling
the aged to his fold.
And so He picks a rosebud
before it can grow old.
God know how much we need them
and so He takes but few,
To make the land of Heaven
more beautiful to view.
Believing this is difficult
still somehow we must try,
The saddest word mankind knows
will always be "Good-bye".
So when a little child departs
we who are left behind,
Must realize God loves children
Angels are hard to find.
Miss you. Love Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Thursday, December 26, 2002
I would like to share this with everyone who knew Erin and who will always hold her near to their hearts.
ERIN'S FIRST CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN
She sees the countless Christmas trees around the world below,
With time lights, like Heaven's stars, reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear,
For Erin is spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.
She hears the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear;
But the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir up here.
She has no words to tell us, the joy their voices bring;
For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.
She knows how much we miss her; She sees the pain inside our heart,
But she is not so far away, we really aren't apart.
So be happy for her, dear ones; You know she holds you near.
And be glad Erin is spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.
She sent us all a special gift, from her heavenly home above.
She sent us each a memory of her undying love.
After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold.
It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.
Please love and keep each other, as my Father said to do,
For Erin counts the blessings and love she has for each of you.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear,
Remember, Erin is spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year!
Brenda <Bking70877@aol.com>
Hellertown, PA USA - Wednesday, December 18, 2002 at 14:52:23 (EST)
"sometimes we love someone so much that we have to be numb to it, because if we really felt how much we loved them, it would kill us!
me
USA - Monday, December 16, 2002
there are so many things all of us have said in our lives "wish you were here" missing you" see you later" they have a different meaning now. even i love you doesn't seem to hold enough emotion anymore. i miss you so very very much. i hope you are happy, happier than you could ever be here. you were a tremendous blessing to me. i hope that those who were lucky enough to have known you, are also lucky enough to know how truly special you were.
me
USA - Friday, December 13, 2002
Erin Mellissa O'Donnell
Erin, That name is the most,
prettiest name to give you, the host.
A beautiful girl, who I miss so much,
I really took for granted you'd always be with us.
It's been over a month that you've gone away,
I'll always remember that terrible day.
It changed our lives forever in a hurtful and not understanding way.
I always try to understand why,
But then always start to cry.
I try to remember all the many good things,
And there is so many that my memory brings,
I'll always remember you're beautiful smile,
I'll remember our trips across the miles.
I remember how you said Josh's name,
The problem last Christmas with his play station game,
I'll remember all our many talks,
You and Trish trying to beat Josh & Binks on those walks,
I remember your patience for Zoe, our pet,
I remember the first time we met.
The holiday season is almost here,
It will be very hard not to have you near,
But in our hearts you will always be,
From Thanksgiving to decorating the X-mas tree,
You'll be in my thoughts wherever I go,
Whether it is to the beach; or just listening to the wind blow,
I'll forever and ever remember your name,
My love for you will never change,
You were a girl with many dreams and plans,
You would of accomplished many with your hands,
Josh still grieves so very much,
For your smile, laughter, and your touch,
We lost someone special on that awful day,
But if you think of it,
Erin O'Donnell is here to stay!
For in our hearts you will always be,
And in pictures we will always see,
Erin a very beautiful girl,
Who I am sure has heaven in a whirl,
Erin, the angel who now is it's host,
But its the girl the name belongs to that I will miss the most.
Forever in my heart,
Jean
Hellertown, PA USA
Wednesday, November 27, 2002
Dear Erin,
It's been a little while since I've written and I didn't want you to think I've forgotten about you. Of course I haven't forgotten. I have so many little daily reminders of you.
Thanksgiving is a few days away and I thought about the trip I made with you and your family down to Meema's. I'm sure I said 'thank you', but I don't think I ever told you how much that meant to me. You may or may not have known but I was planning on spending that day by myself, maybe chowing down on a tv dinner. But you would not hear of it. Without even a second thought, you invited me down to Jersey. I remember your Meema's little shoes that she collected and how we stayed up late in her kitchen just talking. I remember your little cousins the next day so excited to see you. Your dad and Rebekah showed up later, too, and we all stuffed ourselves. You are so lucky to have such a great family like them. I'm envious in so many ways I cannot even tell you.
Erin, not a DAY goes by without me crying over your death, not a MINUTE doesn't go by that I don't think of you. My heart aches because I feel like life is so unfair. Since you've left us it feels like the sun never shines. Me, with everything that's been going on, I think I've learned a few lessons. Life is too short. I try to treasure every moment I have with those around me like it was my last. I finally sat down and wrote my will. Instead of saying, "I'll do it tomorrow" or "I'll go next year" I'm doing things today and right now. I think you'd be pleased to know that I've met with a counselor at Northampton Community College. It's no Kutztown, but it's a start. I took this test to see what my skills and personality would be best used in a profession. It said I should be a proctologist. No, not really. I don't think they offer that at NACC. One thing it did say was I should be a cop. As soon as I saw that, I thought about the time you and I were walking through Dimmick Park and saw the bike cop for the first time. You were touching the lights and bags on the bike and he totally flipped out. That was great. I thought for sure you were going to get us arrested.
I just wanted you to know how everything is going and that I really realy really miss you. My life has been altered because of you. You were an awesome friend. I have so many wonderful memories that I will hold close to my heart.
Always and forever, Eilidh
PS A girl at work lost her sister late Friday night to lung cancer. She's a great lady. Can you do me a favor? Welcome her into heaven. Thank you
Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Monday, November 25, 2002
Dear Erin,
Another week has gone by and not a minute doesn't go by that I don't think of you. I'm a basket case. I'm really not doing good without you. I never knew how I'd be affected by all this. I never imagined being 20 years old and losing such an important and close person to me. It is the hardest thing I've ever had to go through. What puzzles me most if why God has chosen you. I suppose that will boggle my mind for the rest of my life.
But the other night I had the weirdest dream. I'm sure you had something to do with it. All I can remember is seeing you, knowing that you were gone. I ran up to you and gave you the biggest hug. It was so real!! (Poor Greg, it really I was probably hugging him in my sleep!) But you stood back from me with that gorgeous smile and said something silly to make me laugh. I can't even remember what it was. But then you turned around to walk away and simply said, "I'm okay." And walked away. I woke up in the middle of the night, but instead of crying uncontrollably like I have been doing, I woke up with such a new found comfort in my heart. I really believe that wherever you are right now, you're okay. So I guess this is almost a thank you letter. Thank you for visiting my dreams. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend. A true friend. Thank you for always being there. One day we will meet again. Until then, take care. I love you.
Always, Eilidh
Bethlehem, PA USA
Sunday, November 03, 2002
Dear ERIN,
Sorry About my last entry,I wrong key and I was far from done so I'm starting over, I am going to hold onto every memory Ihave of you, from the first time I met you, you were running up my stairs yelling my hair, my hair, help me. Josh saying Mom, This is Erin, Do you know how to get gum out of hair? You were so thankful.The times we went to the beach, our trip to Arkansas,The talks in Josh's room,The love you had for animals,running through the ballgame to get Josh's dog, Zoe,She probably wandering where you are.Your hatred for bugs, especailly my centipedes,The time you got your first car,you were so proud of it.Those hula dolls,The male one I got you, Josh wanted me to through it away, but Igave it to you anyway, we laughed at that one.You stuck it in the z24 right aside of the other one.The way you laid Mathew in the crib like he would break, I thought you'd be in the crib with him,But most of all your love for Josh, and his for you.I Will remember the trip we were going to take to New York on Oct.16, together. One day I'm going to make that trip, and your mom said she'll still go with me and believe me you'll be with us every step of the way.When I look up at the biggest brightest,star at night,I know it's you,cause your beauty will be shining down on us all letting us know your alright,and one day we'll be together again and we can make that trip to New York. I'LL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
FOREVER IN MY HEART,
JEAN
Hellertown, Pa USA
Saturday, November 02, 2002
Dear Erin,
I'm holding onto every memory I have of you, from the first time I met you, you were running up the steps yelling my hair, my hair, help me, Josh saying Mom, this is Erin,Do you know how to get gum out of hair?
Jean
Hellertown, Pa D USA
Saturday, November 02, 2002
When you must leave me for awhile.I will not grieve and shed wild tears. And hug my sorrow to me through the years. But start out bravely with a gallant smile. And for your sake and in your name, live on and do all things the same, Feed not my loneliness on empty days,But fill each waking hour in useful ways. Reach out my hand in comfort and cheer, And you in turn will comfort me and hold me near. Ill never, ever be afraid to die, For I now your waitng for me in the sky.I LOVE YOU BABY JOSH
Jean Johnson
Hellertown, Pa USA
Saturday, November 02, 2002
Dear Erin,
Even today, three weeks later - it is still hard for me to believe that you're gone. I'm still waiting for your phone call to find out why we didn't get together that weekend I came home from school. I guess I will never understand why someone so amazing was taken away from the world so soon. I didn't know you for a long time, but the time that we did spend together will never be forgotten. You helped me through many rough spots in the past few months and I know that you will continue to do that because you are watching over us. Although I'm sure you already know this, I want you to know that I am so glad that we became friends. I know I will never meet anyone as caring, loving, intelligent, beautiful and trusting as you were. You had a way of making people feel important and I will always be greatful that I can say you were my friend. I wish you were still here so that you could be with me on my 21st birthday - today. I do know that you will be watching over me, so that is good enough for me. I just want to finish this by saying I will always remember the times we spent together and I will never stop missing or loving you. You were one special person and God could never ask for a better angel than you.
Love,
Jen
Bethlehem, Pa USA
Saturday, November 02, 2002
Dear Erin,
I'm not sure why you had to die. You are beautiful, smart, whitty, and outgoing. I know you are somewhere else, I just don't know where. I still talk to you and in my head I can hear you answer me. Sometimes, I catch myself using improper grammar and I can hear you say, "Trish I think you mean this" and then I hear your chuckle. It brings a tear to my eye but I never want it to go away. Sometimes one forgets how much people mean to them. I am mad at myself because I didn't keep a tighter grasp on our friendship. Who else is gonna beat me at Chronology and Trivial Pursuit? Who else is going to cruise through South T with the classical station blasting? Who else is going to moon adolescents, run at Lehigh, or remind me of Lucas? No one else can make that funny face you made, dance the way you danced, laugh the way you laughed, or listen the way you listened.
The thing is, you are too perfect to die. I always thought you would be here. This is cheesy but I always imagined us being sister-in-laws. I always pictured us looking out a window with kids at our feet watching Binks and Josh ride fourwheelers, motocycles, dirtbikes....laughing about when we were younger. I was looking forward to that. I guess things change and people go away but memories last. The memories I have of you will last me a lifetime until I get to see you again. And I know we will all see you again.
Trisha Buckvitz
Bethlehem, pa USA
Wednesday, October 30, 2002
Dear Erin,
It is still very hard for me to believe that such a young life was taken away from us. You were so sweet and had so much going for you in life. I did not get to see you much but I always was very fond of you. I am so glad you got to go with our family to Arkansas this summer. We had such a good time and so many memories. I will never forget the gum on your shoes and the way you cared for Brian's dog Peaches. I don't know how many ticks you took off that poor dog but the one she had on her butt topped them off. I still can't believe you took that tick off that dog. That just shows what a caring person you were. Peaches has been missing for about 2 weeks now. I hope she is with you. It has been really hard for everyone the last two weeks. We cry and then we laugh at some of the things you used to do. The memories we have of you will be with us always. I just want you to know that I love you and will miss you. My heart goes out to your mom, dad, sister, and brother. What a lovely family! And to my nephew Josh, cherish the memories you had with Erin and know that she will always be watching over you. Thank you Erin for the time we had with you.
Love
Brenda
Hellertown, PA USA
Friday, October 25, 2002
Dear Erin,
It's been almost 2 weeks since you've left us. I still don't think it's hit me you're gone. It's been a really hard last few weeks and I think it'll be harder yet come. But I just wanted to tell you how much I care and love you. I don't think I ever told you, but I'm sure you know. Over the past few days I've had so many reminders of you. Being with Trish and Josh and their families, we've been reminscing. You were a very special person with a LOT of people that cared about you. Every person I've come into contact with has been sharing their favorite stories about you. You were definitely one crazy chick. I will NEVER find anyone else like you. We both have that same cruel sense of humor. I think of things and when I laugh I know you are laughing with me. I've been going thru a lot in my life and I haven't had anyone to watch over me, but now I have you as my guardian angel. Now I know I'm going to be okay. I will never forget you.
Love always, Eilidh
Eilidh Buntine
Bethlehem, PA USA
Friday, October 25, 2002
It's never easy to say good-bye
The reason why is it hurts deep inside
For me, the pain of saying good-bye
Is a feeling I just can't deny
This is especially true of you
For it is somthing I never thought I would have to do
You were a part of my life for so many years
That still till this day, I can't hold back my tears
I think about all the times we shared
All the happy times, there are none to compare
Even though you are no longer here
You are always very near
A kiss on the cheek my friend
With lots of love
Until we meet again
In the heaven's above
You will forever be in my heart
I miss you Erin
Kristin
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
It's never easy to say good-bye
The reason why is it hurts deep inside
Kristin
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
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