After my Junior year at GHS, I was bound and determined to go to Ireland. Chris had become a real mentor to me in Freshman English, and remained a friend--sort of like an older brother, I suppose--after that year. Though I don't remember clearly how it all came together, Nancy Brogden, Chris, a friend from another town, and I all ended up traveling to Ireland together for several weeks. He, being eldest of us and presumably wisest as well, was a great and adventurous chaperone: just enough older to keep things in check, and just close enough in age to us to know how to enjoy a trip to a land that was full of drama, ancient places and wisdom, natural beauty and an unparalleled literary tradition. Together the four of us biked, hiked, got mildly lost, and rode the train from Yeats' west of Ireland to Joyce's Dublin. Chris was the ideal combination of motivator and shepherd, and we three younger folks were blessed by his presence. Thank you, Chris, for your strength of spirit, openness of mind and gentleness of heart. Though it's been many years, I will never forget your influence on my life. May God give you peace eternally in His light, and may He give strength and comfort to your family and friends. - Chris Allen