It's very surreal for me to be leaving this note. Not 10 hours ago I was driving down Hampton and my mind drifted back to high school memories and for some reason I remembered how as a freshman I had been cast in the Fall musical at Ursuline. I was only in high school for a couple weeks at the time, and this senior, Dan Arns, came up to me, introduced himself and told me that he could drive me to rehearsal every day after school if I met him in the senior parking lot. To have a senior as a friend who just chatted with me for ten minutes every day after school and answered questions about teachers, about how to sign up for activities and just high school in general, meant more to me than anything else in the world at that time of my life. I was forever grateful for his generosity and the example he set.  I always tried to friend underclassmen during my time at SLUH and Dan taught me the importance of doing that.  Now tonight, I'm reading through the alumni newsletter and I see him in the list of alums who had passed away. Dan may no longer be with us on earth, but he is not forgotten and his memory continues to teach lessons and make those of us who knew him better for having been his friend.

What do you say when your very first love leaves this earth?  My heart hurts- I remember seeing you and that smile for the first time, 1988- we were 13, "knew it all" but had so much more living to do! You were my first kiss, my first boyfriend, my first true love. I am so grateful that we remained friends through all of these years. No matter where life took me or you, we were always a phone call away from each other.  You were a blessing to me and a blessing to so many others-I don't know why God took you home so soon, but now you are forever young, forever beautiful- and I will love you forever.  M-

Many great memories with you Dan.  You were one of the most caring people I've known.  You knew how to have a lot of fun and get into a little trouble too.  You and your infectious smile are already missed.

This is sad news to me.  Daniel was a friend-for-life in my opinion.  He brought grace, charm and energy to the charity work we did together.  He faced his own health issues with a blasé strength that simply inspired.  One unforgettable gem of a guy!

Dan's friendship meant the world to me in high school and beyond.  So many epic memories.  His kind, fun-loving nature shaped the person I am today.  Can't believe he's gone.  Now who am I supposed to dance and/or flip a golf cart with?

A sweet man, friends from back in college. His smile was sunshine.

Danny, I missed seeing your smiling face after the bar closed. Your happiness rubbed off on people when you walked into a room. I haven't seen you in quite a while yet it seems like yesterday. I will always love you.  Peace

We became friends many moons ago, I am sorry your time here has expired. May you find peace and joy in the journey that you are about to endeavor.

Richard Wright

OBITUARY

Daniel Matthew Arns

June 29, 1974 – July 2, 2016

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