Island Trees' Class of 1999 was reunited almost in its entirety last week for the first time since graduation, but it was not under joyful circumstances. Tears were shed not over the sight of friends, but rather over the passing of a loved one, Steve Bosco.

I have many fond memories of Steve, who I met in fifth grade. In the enrichment program, one of our projects was to take a photo portrait in front of the blackboard. Most of the class took standard chest-up, smile for the camera kinds of pictures. But Steve got down on the floor and stood on his hands, and the camera captured him upside down. When we were in middle school, he gave me flowers after I danced in a recital. In high school, on our French class field trip to France, we all shared feelings of wonder at the historical landmarks and famous landscapes, Steve included.

In our senior yearbook, Steve wrote to me that he would never forget me. Now it's my turn to never forget him. He was a unique and thoughtful person, always genuinely happy to see a friend. May the burden of his passing wear lightly on the hearts of his friends, family, loved ones and the community.