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Jennifer Murgo
14 years ago

I lived with Katie for almost 3 years in NYC. The first time I met Connor was at one of his many parties he had at his apartment. I remember it being a 70's theme and Connor was decked out in a polyester outfit along with a HUGE smile on his face. He was such a great host, always had every single kind of liquor possible for the girls and a keg ready for beer pong games. One of my favorite memories of Connor was at one of his parties when he decided to make some special shots for us: vanilla ice cream, milk and rum. He was excited to have us try them it almost seemed like he had been waiting for the perfect moment to bust out the receipe. I think we were all a little nervous to try it at first but it was actually really good. I believe he made a couple more rounds for us that night. The next time we saw Connor we laughed about it and asked him if he could make them again for us. I think he was out of ice cream:) I will never forget that laugh. Living with Katie I was luckily enough to witness her and Connor’s special bond. Connor was always around to help Katie with whatever she needed, whether it was advice on work or boys or a friend to go to the movies with, he was always there for her. She would frequently cook him dinner: spaghetti and meatballs along with with her famous chocolate cake for dessert. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone eat so much before! He really loved Katie’s cooking. She would always send him home with leftovers in tupperware containers so he had dinner for the next couple of days. He was an amazing person who loved his family with all of his heart. There has not been a day that has gone by that I have not thought about Connor and the O’Gorman family. I truly believe he is an angel in heaven watching over us, giving us strength and love. Connor was not on this earth long enough but he sure left his mark and will NEVER be forgotten.

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14 years ago

I met Connor and his wonderful family while living in Bangkok, Thailand. I was in sixth grade when Connor joined our class. We were instant friends since we both lived and loved hanging out at the ball fields:) Most of my memories of Connor are involving some type of ball. When we weren't playing an actual game, we were watching our siblings play, our friends, or in a deep game of 'pickle.' Looking back on it, I have no idea how we ran from one base to the other, OVER and OVER again and throwing the ball back and forth OVER and OVER again. And of course, Connor treated each throw down like it was the first. He always had such enthusiasm for games and having fun. Life was so simple back then. We also had some great tennis baseball games at recess & lunch-everyone always wanted Connor on their team. And lastly, my fondest and most vivid memory I have is of us fighting over fly balls at dusk. Practice would be over and everyone else was heading home for dinner, but there would be a few of us stragglers who just wanted a few more balls hit to us. My dad would hit the ball as high in the sky as he could, and we would glare up just waiting to catch a glimpse of that white ball falling back down at us. And who do you think most often caught them? You guessed it. The last time I saw Connor was after our sophomore year of high school. While visiting Atlanta, 'Mrs. Pat', Katie, Kerry and Connor treated me to lunch with open hearts, smiles and lots of laughter, as usual. I regret that that was the last time I got to see Connor and we never got back in touch. I have thought of him often though and wondered how and what he was doing. Although we had not been in touch in years, I can tell from the many memories written, that the same Connor that my family and I knew and loved in Bangkok, was the same Connor years and years later. The same spirit, dedication to family and friends, enthusiasm, zest for life, infectious attitude, and caring person that he was--he still is and always will be. So many memories I read reminded me of little quirks and personality traits that had faded along with time. And although those little things faded, Connor's laugh, respectful nature, fun-loving spirit, loyalty, and determination for anything & everything will never fade. I am grateful and feel truly blessed to have known him and spent a part of this lifetime with him. I look forward to seeing him again in heaven. You are greatly missed Connor. To the O'Gorman Family-My heart goes out to each of you in this time. What a wonderful testament this memorial is to your grandson, son, brother, and friend. May his memories lift your hearts in this difficult time and help you find peace. With much love and many prayers. Crissy (Grimm) Archer and my family

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Allyson Rameker
14 years ago

Connor was like a big brother to me. Growing up, I spent a lot of time at the O’Gorman house. Some of my best memories from Singapore are sitting in the O’Gorman kitchens on Saturday morning, eating our pancakes and talking with everyone. Truly treasured memories… Connor used to always sucker me into challenges, dares, etc. I guess I was an easy target. Some even ridiculous; once, he challenged me a soda-pouring contest to see who could successfully pour an entire soda in a small cup the first. It is no surprise, as everything else in his life, he came out on top. Another time, Connor asked if I would trust him enough to get on my knees with a baseball hat on my head and let him hit it off my head. Since he was such an amazing baseball player, I thought of course I would trust him enough. He gave me just one condition; I would have to close my eyes. So, we tried once and were successful. I was so pleased that we went around the house and showed everyone our new trick. Eventually, I found out the joke was on me and he was not actually hitting the cap off my head, but rather taking it off with his hand. Beyond these, so many of my memories are laced with Connor…playing softball, watching him play baseball, swimming in the O’Gorman pool, playing cards … He always had a huge smile and a laugh that I can still hear. Connor – I miss you, and will think of you dearly and often.

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Jon Lin
14 years ago

Connor was the exception. In a time when people seemed downtrodden by their own problems and the world around them, Connor was always there to breathe joy into your life... anytime, anywhere, no questions asked. You see, on one hand, Connor reminded me of a Great Oak tree, someone that we all leaned on for shade and silent wisdom. To kick back and spend some time with him, was an escape from the noise of the city, and the whispers of the world - he was soothing. Just being around him, made you a better person. Every time you talked to him or listened to him, you learned how to live life with a little more clarity and a little more love. He never preached or judged, just led by example. But his steady demeanor and down-to-earth attitude was only one-side of the pillow. To me, Connor was also like the Sun. He had a big heart that radiated and he shared with all of his. His kindness and generosity warmed souls and reenergized lives. There’s a saying that goes, “The sun never says to the earth, 'you owe me.' Look at what happens with a love like that -- it lights up the whole sky.” Connor never ceased to light up my world. I will never forget his unconditional love for Katie, Mike, Kerry, and his family. I will always remember his passion for baseball and tennis. His oversized paws slapping my shoulders. We started 90% of our conversations with “Big Dog!” or “What’s uppppp?!” - if there was ever a film crew around, you would think we were filming a Budweiser commercial. He was the best friend a guy could ever have. Connor is the guy that will drive all 20 hours of a road trip and not complain- a warrior. I will remember his gait, and his pride in his self-proclaimed backside that he proudly called “ham hocks”. Not to mention his hair was perfect. He once told me, “Tough times don’t last, tough guys do.” and I’ve used that wisdom to pick myself up everyday, and that’s why he will last with me forever.

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Nina Frazier
14 years ago

Mr. C was the nickname I had for Connor. I still have a signed baseball Connor gave me for one of my birthdays about ten years ago. I always wanted the first signed ball for when he became famous. He certainly reached well above fame in my eyes. Well known, first rate, excellent are barely high enough to describe Connor. He was a superior brother, son, employee, teammate, and friend. He lived life full of happiness, love, honor, and perseverance. Connor was such a special person to me because of his connection with two of my best friends in high school (his incredible sister, Katie, and his wonderful girlfriend at the time, Jessi). Jessi and I had been best friends since the eighth grade. Connor was loving, adoring, goofy, and nurturing. I spent many nights with Jessi and Connor talking, laughing, and loving life. Connor was one of the few people in high school that could drive. He would drive us all over the place. Katie and I became close around the same time Connor and Jessi started dating. Katie was a burst of sunshine in my world. We spent many, many, nights talking, talking, and talking about all of the worries of high school girls. Connor and Katie were like no brother and sister I had ever met in my life. They had a bond and connection that was so incredible. Connor was always there for Katie through anything, absolutely anything. As Katie and I would discuss in great depth our thoughts on life (boys) I remember we always would consider, “What would Connor say?” Connor protected Katie. Connor gave us advice. Connor was always there for us. I remember playing Big 2 in the cafeteria with Connor during my free period. He was so good that he would always win. I also remember Connor constantly playing jokes on me (along with his sister, Katie). I was the perfect target for Connor because I am so gullible and he could pretty much tell me anything and I would believe him. This one time Katie played a joke on me, can’t really remember if Connor was involved or not, but anyways Katie came to pick me up on my birthday in a taxi dressed in this ridiculous outfit and this huge boa around her neck. I, of course, had to go into public with her (the point of the joke). Connor and Katie always had something up their sleeves. This one time Jessi, Connor, Katie and I went to play tennis. I had never played and was just horrible. I remember Connor yelling, “Oh, come on Nina, you can do better than that! One, more!” He was so persistent at helping me get better at tennis it was hilarious. I had the pleasure of watching Connor play baseball many times. Subic Bay in the stands out most in my mind. He was pure excellence out there and had the ability to focus and give it his all like no other person I had ever seen. I quickly learned that this is what Connor did with every thing in his life; he gave his all. For the past week, Connor has echoed in my mind. I keep hearing him say: “Oh, man!” “Be tough!” “One, more” “Really?” “I just don’t believe it.” “You won’t want to miss this.” “Pansies.” “Oh, come on!” and of course his laugh…Connor’s laugh will forever echo in my heart. To think of the impact Connor has left on so many people and how the memory of Connor brings smiles to our lives and laughter in our hearts is exactly what he would want. To Katie and the O’Gormans, my thoughts and prayers are with you constantly. I am sending you love and strength every second. Connor, you bring me smiles and laughter, I miss you and thank you for making my life better.

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Taryn Barnett
14 years ago

I knew Connor through Katie. He was someone I saw briefly throughout the years. However, his passing has felt like I lost someone I loved. I have been so confused by this feeling as he was someone I barely knew. It hit me at his funeral that the reason this loss has been so hard is that I love Katie. If you love Katie, you love Connor. I have heard Connor's name in every conversation and every email I have ever exchanged with Katie. Connor has been a daily presence in my life for years, because he was such a huge part of my friend. Every mention of his name was always a story of the amazing generousity of spirit that was the essence of Connor. He wasn't a good big brother, he was a perfect big brother. The O'Gormans are an amazing family and a true testament of love. I am so sorry for this loss, and although I know this family will pull each other through, you will constantly be in my prayers and thoughts.

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Dave Brinsfield
14 years ago

I am listed in the order of service as “Reverend”. You need to know I am here as Connor’s UNCLE, FRIEND, and a Connor ADMIRER. I also stand here representing a large loving family, Uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins…… Many in this family could stand here and do this and it is a privilege to represent them. Connors family… Patrick, Patricia, Katie, Michael and Kerry have asked that you know they will get through this. There is no pretending it is not hard. However, Connor’s often spoken words of, BE TOUGH are more real and comforting to them now than ever before. They appreciate and want to hear your comments, stories and encounters with Connor. While these will more than likely bring tears, they help them with this time. They appreciate and value your presence here today and most of all, your presence in Connors life. As I tried to think of a quote to capture Connor, I knew right away it had to be sports related and especially baseball related. The great Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, “Mr. Cub”, played his entire career with the Cubs. The Cubs teams he played on were mediocre at best. Ernie would arrive at the stadium everyday full of a little boy’s excitement and joy. He would only see the best in his teammates. And when he arrived at the park he is quoted as saying, “It’s a great day for a ballgame, let’s play two!” That was definitely Connors attitude toward sports. Dennis spoke of how he would often play 18 holes of golf and take a snicker snack break and then head out for another nine holes. That was in a nutshell also Connors attitude toward life…he left nothing on the table. He only saw the positive in those around him. In the best way possible he lived life to the fullest...and drew all those he loved to this attitude toward life. Most of you in your own special and unique way knew Connor…so you understand when I say, Connor cannot be totally captured in words. He had to be EXPERIENCED. Connor was a “force of nature”. May each of us cling to those memories and especially those experiences. It is ironic that the O’Gorman who would be most uncomfortable with this time today would have been Connor himself. While he loved to help put the focus on others and he loved to enable others to be successful. He was most uncomfortable when the attention was on him. This is one of the things that drew us all to him. Connor was born here in Atlanta at the same hospital as both of our children…Even this was an adventure. He was supposed to be born in Iran, but the hostage crisis in 1979 forced a change of those plans. However soon after his birth began an odyssey of travel with his family...This travel helped shape him and most importantly for those here today, brought him into your lives. Connor was shaped not only by the places he lived but most by his family. However, each and everyone he encountered also molded him. Connor had the unique gift of when he was in your presence of truly “being” there….giving you his undivided attention. What you saw with Connor is what you got….He was genuine…. the same with a stranger as with a good friend. Katie told us how he would often invite the doorman at his building up when they had gatherings. There were two times of year that our families here in Atlanta looked forward to: Summer and Christmas. Because this meant the O’Gorman’s were coming for an extended stay. We would often say to friends when asked what we were going to do this summer, “The O’Gorman’s are coming” and they would ask, “is it a rock band?....a traveling group of performers?” We would laugh and say, no it’s our cousins. And arrive they would… for 2-3 months of nonstop swim teams, ball games, ball teams, ball camps and nonstop play with Connor at the center. The O’Gorman’s took Atlanta by storm. When they came to our house they would play ball in our backyard or side yard or at Roswell Area Park all day long….all of them, Rich, Kelli, Connor, Katie, Mikey and Kerry. They would come home sweaty, hair matted and full of stories of playing home run derby…I would ask, “what were the teams?”, they would say, “all of us against Connor.” Then I would ask, “Who won?” They always replied, “Connor! This seemed to upset Mikey and Rich the most. More often they would be at Connor’s grandmothers, Berrien Crawley…granny. There is at her condo a very small field under the power lines and this is where you would find them, all day again playing football, whiffle ball and games invented by Connor…and not surprisingly Connor won those also. The rest of them never figured out why he always won games he invented. I am sure there are those who would look at Connor’s life and success and think him lucky or simply fortunate. Connor had a way of even making his hard work look easy, but Connor worked hard for any success he had and then he shared it with all around him. Two stories that highlight this work ethic: His dad Patrick told me about the batting cage they had in their backyard in Singapore. Connor always seemed to be there. He would twist the arm of anyone visiting to feed balls into the pitching machine. It was not unusual to look out and see the maid feeding baseballs into the machine. On one rainy Sunday, Connor talked his dad into some BP before church. Patrick told him, “Ok, just 15 minutes.” The balls were slippery from the rain and Connor was batting without a helmet. A slippery ball spun out of the machine at an angle and dropped Connor like a rock when it hit him in the head. Patrick ran to his side thinking he had hurt him….Connor looked up at him as he lay on the ground and said, “I’m sorry dad, just a few more?” Andrew told of Connor sharing the Kafer Trophy award with him his senior year. Connor only had 16 at bats his entire Princeton baseball career, yet he shared what was essentially MVP honors his senior year. He worked harder than most, not only for himself but to make his teammates better. He threw BP, he caught pitchers…. “He was everywhere on and off the field, helping others be better”. Connor had great success, but he also had a great work ethic that led to that success. You have heard it said today how generous Connor was. Many flaunt their generosity or use it for gain. Not Connor. Generosity was part of he was, no strings attached, unconditional. Trips for the family, Taxi rides for Katie….Connor loved sharing his success. As a boy Connor….Loved adventure As a boy Connor....He was the son who brought calm and reason to the others As a boy Connor....He was the brother all looked up to As a boy Connor....He was the cousin all followed and longed to beat, “just once” As a Man Connor….Loved adventure As a Man Connor....He was the one that many followed because of his quiet confidence As a Man Connor....He was admired for his accomplishments and success As a Man Connor....He was the one that thought of others before himself As a Man Connor....He was the one that made it safe Patrick, his dad captured Connor best when he said: “This is the only family I have any experience with being a father, so I am not sure what it is like in other families but I often found myself, wanting to be like Connor.” He will be missed as a son, brother and friend. He will be remembered as a son, brother and friend. He will be loved as long as there are any of us around who “experienced” Connor O’Gorman

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david Flowerdew
14 years ago

I want to thank the O’Gorman family for giving me this opportunity to talk about Connor, who was a fantastic friend to us all and a very special person. My name is David Flowerdew, and I have worked, played and generally had fun with Connor in New York over the past five years. I and many others here today are going to miss him tremendously, and I want to try to talk about why it is we are all going to miss him so much, and also try to tell you about some of the things in Connor’s life in New York that made him so happy. I first met Connor when I moved across from London in 2003 to work with him and his smart gang of American friends, Mike Jes, Tanner, Nilsson and a host of others that all worked for our patient and super-intelligent boss, Graig Fantuzzi. That group of guys has all moved on to new pursuits now, but our first few years on the job resulted in strong bonds and we all remained very close with Connor and with each other. I was lucky enough to remain on the same team as Connor all the way through his career, and we pushed each other on as we both progressed and developed. Many of you will only have known Connor outside of his work environment, and maybe aren’t aware that there was another side to him than the tremendously laid back, relaxed guy with the unique and contagious laugh. The truth is that Connor was passionate about his job. Despite seeming like a rough and ready character - the baseball player from the south - Connor was clearly extremely intelligent, his work was brilliant, and he impressed all that worked with him. He was certainly not afraid of working hard either. Dinners at his desk and trips home in a cab at midnight were a regular occurrence for Connor in his first few years at Morgan Stanley, but not because he had to produce any work for some deadline early the next morning, but because he was genuinely thrilled by what he was learning and excited about doing a great job. Meanwhile, during the day, Connor was as intense a trader as there is on the floor. He was an incredibly focused man with enormous drive. We used to make fun of him for never taking his eyes away from the screen full of numbers that sat in front of him, but he never wanted to miss a moment. His focus made him a great colleague and a great success at Morgan Stanley, where he worked for over six years. My days at work are never going to be the same without him, and I know that all of his colleagues feel the same way. So I got to know Connor primarily at work, but it wasn’t long before we discovered that we had a lot in common outside of work, with the focus mainly on sports. Soon Connor and I were heading down to Flushing Meadows on the weekends for games of tennis on the U.S. Open courts, learning to put our big tennis swings in a small room in order to play squash with our colleagues David Moore and Nilsson, heading all over the country having fantastic days playing golf in the sun, and of course we’d always finish it off with a beer to discuss the highlights of the game. I learned a lot from Connor by playing sports with him. He approached every game in the way he approached all aspects of his life. Connor never did anything half-heartedly. He never held back, he never doubted himself. He always used to tell me that until he was sixteen years old he was always the little guy at school, but by the time I knew him he was anything but small. I’ve never seen anyone swing a racket so fast, hit a ball so hard or swing a club with such fury. He would go for it with all of his might, and he had a lot of talent as well as power. On the tennis court he used to hit the ball so hard that Connor’s sister Katie had to introduce us to a colleague of hers, Chris, who used to be a professional to come and take Connor down a peg or two. I can remember a lot of heads turning down at the tennis club when they saw Chris and Connor hitting blistering forehands as if it was easy. And Connor never doubted himself on the golf course either. His shots would always go about twice as far as mine, but unfortunately they had about half as much accuracy as mine, which meant that we usually had a really good game. On one outing with David Moore we were having a particularly tight contest. I was due to play first on one of the last few holes, and I produced what must have been my best and biggest hit of the day, straight down the middle of the fairway. I backed away with a smug look on my face, but Connor turned to me and calmly but firmly announced – ‘Flowerdew, my ball is going to piss on your ball as it flies over it’. He then proceeded to step up and hit the most ridiculous shot any of us had ever seen, straight as an arrow. It did indeed fly right over my ball, and traveled another 75 yards or so before landing. He turned to look at me and belted out one of his enormous laughs, and everyone watching was forced to join in with him as he went on to win. But of course his best sport was baseball. He often talked of how much he had loved the year he spent after college traveling around playing professional baseball with the Richmond Roosters as the catcher. He made some fantastic friends during that year, and often reminisced with me about the care-free year he spent sleeping on couches and bar-tending by night, while becoming a town-hero on the baseball field by day. His abilities at tennis, golf, and mainly baseball always made me think of just how gifted a guy Connor was. I doubt there are many guys around who decide that professional baseball is not for them and switch to building an interest rate option desk on Wall Street instead. Connor was an amazingly talented man. As I thought about what I wanted to talk about today, I felt that I wanted to make it clear to people just how impressive Connor was in all the things he tried to achieve in life because he worked so hard with such direction. But when I talk about Connor in this way, while I feel proud of him and impressed by him, it feels like I am missing the point of the relationship I had with Connor, and maybe not representing the best parts of what made Connor who he was. When I really try to think about what Connor was really like, I can’t help but think about three things – I think about how much he loved fun and spread it around all those that he knew, I think about what a kind-hearted person he was, and I think about how much he loved and cared about his family and friends. These are the things that I really want to focus on as I remember him. Connor has easily been the person that has provided me with most fun in the last few years in New York, and I am not the only person who is able to say that. I think all that have spent any amount of time with him will agree that it was virtually impossible to have a bad time with Connor. He was never down. He never turned down any activity or any trip anywhere, and he could turn anything into fun. He really did have one of the most positive outlooks on life of anyone I’ve ever met. He loved his life, his friends and his family. He loved hosting parties and bringing his huge set of friends together. He enjoyed nothing more than having Katie and all her friends come over to hang out with his college friends and the guys from work as he hosted - ensuring that everyone always had a great time. So as I remember Connor in the future, it will definitely be the huge number of good times I had with Connor that will stay in my mind. We all loved to hear him laugh loud and hard as he often did. Everyone in this room probably remembers what it was to hear one of Connor’s laughs. It was unreserved, would reach everyone in the room, and it could lift your mood in split second. I remember one of his biggest outbursts on one of our trips, a bachelor party in Las Vegas. I found Connor at a craps table with a big crowd standing around him and a large pile of chips sitting in front of him. I asked him what was going on, but he was already into the next game. The crowd watched in support as Connor screamed ’20 dollars on a hard 8’ at the croupier. He threw the dice, his number came up and the crowd roared. Another pile of chips was handed to him, and he looked very pleased with himself and screamed once again ‘another 20 dollars on a hard 8’. I had no idea about how to play craps and wondered how Connor was winning so much so I asked – ‘Connor, what on earth is a hard eight?’ He turned to look at me and said ‘buddy – I have no idea’, and threw his head back and produced one of those laughs of his that captured the whole room and guaranteed that he was having fun. Lastly, I am very sure that the O’Gorman family know exactly how much he loved them. He was completely devoted to them. I have never known a brother and sister that were as close as Connor and Katie. Connor talked with huge excitement about the idea of Mikey coming to live in New York so they could hang out more, and the O’Gorman family reunion where he could see Kerry and his parents was pretty much the highlight of each of his years. I had a great day on Saturday with Connor. We played tennis and then chatted all afternoon. He told me how much he was looking forward to seeing his Dad this weekend, and was also very excited about seeing his best friend Dennis in a few weeks. I’m not sure anyone can appreciate just how much you guys are going to miss him, but I’m pretty sure that it’s about the same extent to which he loved you guys when he was alive. Connor was an amazing man and an amazing friend and I am going to miss him with all my heart.

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Andrew Hanson
14 years ago

Connor O’Gorman was a freshman at Princeton in the fall of 1997. Luckily for me, so was I. Connor O’Gorman was also a baseball player, And luckily for me, so was I. I first met Connor at the Princeton baseball field, And we quickly developed a close friendship. We shared a passion and love for the game, And for those next four years, we spent thousands of hours together Trying to become the best baseball players we could be. Connor also spent four years trying to make everyone around him better, And the way he went about this was truly remarkable. If a book were ever written about Princeton baseball, The only way to do justice to the impact Connor had on the program Would be to devote an entire chapter just to him. Connor came to the team as a walk-on, And after a couple of weeks of practice, He had yet to secure a roster spot. But then one day our Coach noticed Connor practicing by himself While everyone else was in class. Coach asked Connor how he could take care of his academic responsibilities If he was always at the field, and Connor explained, “You don’t have to worry Coach, I do pretty well in class.” Then Connor told the Coach, “Baseball is what I live for.” That was all Coach needed to hear, So he told Connor that although he may never play a Meaningful inning during the next 4 years, He could have a uniform if he worked hard and was a good teammate. Connor then said, “That’s all I wanted to hear,” And the rest is history. In Connor’s first two seasons, he didn’t have any at-bats In our regular season, varsity games. Instead, he was performing every unenviable task there was for a baseball team. For example, Connor would throw batting practice for as long as anyone wanted. Then he would squat down and catch pitchers throwing in the bullpen for hours at a time. He did all this without ever complaining about his lack of playing time. During his junior year, Connor finally got his first at-bat and his first hit. Then during senior year, Connor got 4 hits in 12 at-bats, Earning him a batting average of .333 for the season. There is no statistic, however, that could measure Connor’s effect on our team; Only adjectives and adverbs. Some of those are captured in the description of Princeton baseball’s Prestigious Kafer Trophy award. The Kafer Trophy is: “Awarded annually to that member of the Princeton Varsity baseball team Of good moral character, who, during the season, in addition to proving himself A player of ability, has best exemplified the following traits and characteristics: Observance of the rules of the game and fairness towards opponents, Loyalty and devotion to Princeton’s baseball interests, Courage, manliness, self-control and modesty, perseverance and Determination under discouraging conditions.” Connor was a shoo-in. I’ve played on 33 baseball teams in my life. Connor O’Gorman is by far the best teammate I’ve ever had. Connor’s impact on the program continued even after graduation. Connor continued to give incredibly inspiring speeches about What it meant to wear a Princeton baseball uniform And how the Tigers played the game. These speeches made former players reminisce and miss the game, They made current players motivated to play like they’d never played before, And they even made some recruits decide to enroll at Princeton. The Princeton baseball family wasn’t the only family Connor lived for. For over 30 years, Connor lived for the most important family of all - the O’Gormans. It all started with Granny, who Connor loved with every ounce of his being. Then there was Patrick and Patricia, and you could tell how much he loved them By the way he looked up to them as role models And how hard he tried to make them proud. As for Katie, Mikey, and Kerry, There was nothing more important to Connor Than taking care of them. He was the best older brother I’ve ever known. I was fortunate enough to spend time with Connor Twice in 2009. The first occasion was Connor’s 30th birthday party in New York City. Katie arranged this party, and the things that stand out to me Reflect some of Connor’s greatest traits. First, Connor made every room he was in a better place, And on this night, he put smiles on everyone’s faces With his sense of humor and passion for life. He showed his incredible generosity by paying For the majority of the cost of the party, Even though it was his birthday party. This actually wasn’t much of a surprise, Because Connor gave his money away like it was burning a hole in his pocket If he could use it to spread joy. The other thing that stands out from this night was how Connor did all of this while pictures of his family Were spread out on the walls all around the room. I also got to see Connor on a golf trip to Arizona just 3 weeks ago. We played at least 18 holes every day, And Connor, like always, swung as hard as he possibly could on every single shot. At one point, I told him there’s nowhere I rather be. This was in large part because Connor was there. On Connor’s favorite hole that weekend, he tapped in for birdie After coming within inches of making a hole-in-one. The only communication I had with Connor following this trip Was a series of text messages last weekend. I told him to let me know if he wanted to come to Boston for a weekend Before our planned trip to the Princeton reunions. I also told him I was planning to go to the Princeton – Harvard baseball games on Sunday, Hoping, just hoping, he would want to join me. He wrote back on Saturday and told me he would go with me to Princeton On Sunday and asked if I was driving. I wrote back and said, “Games are at Harvard!” That was the last communication I had with him, So I don’t know what he had decided, But it would not have surprised me in the least if he had planned To jump on a flight Sunday morning to come to the games. No one had the pleasure of seeing Connor that day at the games, But he was there in spirit. Princeton won the first game 3-1. Then in the second game, Princeton fell behind 8-0. With a relentless wind in the background, The Tigers fought back to force extra innings. I think Connor wanted that game to go on forever, And it ended up being the longest game Princeton had played in over 50 years. For the rest of the season, the Princeton baseball team is going to wear A patch on their shoulders in honor of Connor. The patch will have 3 unforgettable letters on it – “C – O – G.” This is exactly how it should be, because Connor was, is, and always will be Synonymous with Princeton baseball. The first leg of my journey to Atlanta this week was a flight from Boston to New York. As we neared the airport in New York, the stewardness announced very clearly, “We are about to land at John F. Kennedy airport.” I found this to be entirely appropriate, because Connor lived by the lofty ideals of JFK. He never asked what his team could do for him, He only asked what he could do for his team. For my high school graduation, I received a book of quotations. The one that I keep thinking about that sums up Connor And the way he approached life is the following: “Don’t bunt. Aim out of the ballpark.” If Connor were here today, I’m pretty sure he would have recited this quotation A little differently. The key would be the first two fingers on his hand. You see, if Connor was excited about something, Or talking about one of his grand ideas, He’d have to use 2 fingers, not 1. If you were lucky, he’d point at you like this With a big smile on his face. For this baseball-related quote, I think Connor would want to give this advice as follows: “Don’t bunt, aim _____ out of the ballpark!”

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Margot Ramsay
14 years ago

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Matthew Hornbach
14 years ago

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Matthew Hornbach
14 years ago

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Kerry
14 years ago

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Teboho Moloi
14 years ago

Condolences to Pat and Patricia on Connor's passing. My late mother Rebecca, who looked after a young Connor and his sister Katie would have been saddened by your loss. I am Rebecca's then 13 year old son. Regards.

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Kerry
14 years ago

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Kerry
14 years ago

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Kerry
14 years ago

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david Flowerdew
14 years ago

I had worked closely with Connor for most of his time at Morgan Stanley and had been his boss since 2006. All those who had even met Connor briefly knew of his incredible generosity of spirit, infectious humor, and love of sports. Indeed, one might be forgiven for mistaking his easy-going nature, passion for fun, and ubiquitous baseball cap (yes, even at work!) for betraying a laissez-faire attitude towards his job. Absolutely nothing could be further from the truth. Connor excelled at his work, and was extremely focused on it. His intensity level when trading was genuinely awe-inspiring (and I do not use that term lightly). Not once did I ever ask him for an opinion on a particular market and he had none. This was not, incidentally, only the result of natural talent (though he posessed far more than his fair share of that); Connor was incredibly diligent, hard-working, and professional. Connor would NEVER leave work early if he had not satisfied himself that he was prepared for the next day. Conversely, no matter how late an evening ran (and anyone who knew Connor knew that it was almost a point of pride that he would not be the one to suggest "calling it a night"), he would be in the next morning before 7 AM. Needless to say, he never complained about "feeling under the weather" or "having had a rough night". Beyond that, however, there was something rare and precious about Connor to which words do not fully do justice. My team of traders has an unusual degree of teamwork and camaraderie - both at work and away from it - which anyone can well imagine is a precious business asset as well as a joy to experience. I am 100% convinced that Connor was a major part of that. There really did seem to be something (much!) larger than life about Connor - he ate more, drank more, and laughed more than anyone else I knew. And he squeezed so much LIVING into his life, without ever seeming to try hard. Imagine how you would like to spend a couple of days - going somewhere special for the weekend, doing something fun (golf, tennis, lying on a beach, whatever), enjoying good food and late nights with tons of friends new and old. This is how Connor lived his life every day. We will all miss you deeply. The world is one shade grayer without you in it.

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Cousin Meg
14 years ago

When I was about 5 or 6 years old me and Connor would always play a game called "Too Close to the Edge". In this game I would pretend to be on the edge of the couch. Then he would pick me up and throw me on the couch and shout TOO CLOSE TO THE EDGE!!! I loved it and wanted Connor to do it again and again. He wouldn't stop until I was satisfied and happy! It was one of my FAVORITE games ever! I'll miss you Connor!

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I have no memories of my first meeting with connor, although we pictures to prove it. Connor and I were in a play group together in Thailand when we were just babies. I've been told he was my "first" boyfriend. The real memories of Connor come when his family moved back to Thailand during our middle school years. Baseball has always been a part of my family as I have an older brother who loved baseball just about as much as Connor. Connor and his family lived just down the street. When he came over and discovered that we had a battage cage, he became a regular fixture at our house just about every day of the week. I remember how he would tease me why I wasn't out hitting balls more. One time we tried to see if Connor could hit left handed. The ball spat out the pitching machine and proceeded to bean him. He hadn't tried to move and didn't even flinch. He just chuckled at his lack of coordination and with his typical grin said, "let's do one more." We lost touch over the years, and recently I've been in touch with his sister again. I'm sad that I didn't get a chance to reconnect with Connor (he definately would have gotten a kick out of me marrying a baseball player of all things). He was always such a warm and positive person. My prayers go out to his family and friends.

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Uncle Rich
14 years ago

I'm Connor's Uncle Rich, and I would like to share two short stories about Connor. The first takes place at the beach in Florida where our families get together each summer. The younger kids would often come up to Connor and tell him about their latest discovery, like how hot the sand on the beach could be, or that they could dive into the deep end of the pool. Connor would always be so interested and would always say an enthusiastic, "REALLY!", with his wide eyes of learning something for the first time. The second story was from when Connor was ten or eleven. The whole family was at the beach again, and I asked Connor if he wanted to have a catch. Of course, he said, "YES!" Once we started, though, he realized what a huge mistake he made, as I could not throw well at all and was even worse at catching. Luckily, he hadn't learned about pansies yet. As I was apologizing for every errant throw, he would just say, "That's alright, don't worry about it." This went on for about twenty minutes, when Connor finally said, "I think I want to go inside now." And while we were walking back up he said, "Thanks for having a catch with me." Whether it’s with the youngest kids at the beach, or with an Uncle having a catch, when you were with Connor, he was totally focused on you and the moment, and nothing else seemed important except for you.

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Kerry
14 years ago

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Hilary Fritsch
14 years ago

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Hilary Fritsch
14 years ago

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Hilary Fritsch
14 years ago

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Hilary Fritsch
14 years ago

My husband, Matthew Fritsch and I are so sorry for Connor's family and friends. We are thinking of all of you and have you in our prayers. Matt and I were honored to have Connor as a guest at our wedding in Wyoming and also to count him as a close friend. From the moment I met Connor, I couldn't help but want to know him better. He was so funny and sweet and totally loveable. He was so genuine, and so grateful, and made you feel very happy just being around him. I don't know how he did that, but he always seemed happy for simple things, and because it was so real, you couldn't help but feel happier and grateful too. The other thing that really impressed me about Connor every time we were together was how brave and uninhibited he was at working toward his goals; be that skiing or chasing down a pretty girl. He wasn't afraid to put himself out there. That is so rare and must be the reason for his great success at everything he did. Of all the people I know, Connor appeared to enjoy his life and live every moment more fully than anyone. We will miss him dearly but I am grateful for having the opportunity to meet such an amazing person. Rest in Peace Connor

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Patrick Ready
14 years ago

I am in absolutely shock over this news. I was living in Thailand with my family when I met Connor and his wonderful family. Having lost touch through the years we re-connected just a little while ago. He was the same guy then as he is now - the kind of guy your only hope your own children grow up to be. I really can not put into words what I am feeling or thinking right now having just heard of this loss. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.

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debbie ciavarella
14 years ago

We will never forget Connor. We are so sorry for your loss. Debbie, Bob, Dan and Tim Ciavarella

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priya
14 years ago

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priya
14 years ago

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priya
14 years ago

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Haas
14 years ago

Connor was great in soooo many ways. I met Connor 10 years ago while visiting Dennis at Princeton. It wasn't until we all moved into NYC a few years later that we became great friends. Since that time, very few of my memories don't begin or end with Connor somehow. He had an infectious smile and unforgettable laugh. I loved him for the way he could approach anything negative with an "aww shucks" demeanor and his ability to call me out every time i exaggerated a bit (and I often did/do). They don't make a rulebook on how to be a great friend but if they did Connor should be the template. He was selfless, and never boring. He was smart and witty. In his sister Katie's words he was "perfect", and I agree. Connor I will miss you always. Every time I see our friends, every time I hit a golf ball, every time I look at my wedding album, every time I read about Morgan Stanley or see a man wearing a shirt/pants two sizes too big, I will think of you and smile. I miss you COG. Rest in peace.

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Brian Mejias
14 years ago

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Brian Mejias
14 years ago

Connor, it was a pleasure to share a momment of your life. Rest in Peace, My friend. (Photo is of Connor as he represented New York in the Florida Cup Challenge in Miami in 2005.)

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eliza johnson
14 years ago

I knew Connor through my best friend, Philippa. I would always tell Philippa how great it was hanging out with him because he always made me so good about myself -- I called Connor my "ego-booster"! He would laugh at almost anything I said -- and his laugh was so pure, spirited and contagious. Like his laugh, Connor was a pleasure to be around. He was so easy-going, I couldn't figure out how he ever made it where was supposed to be, but he always did eventually....there was the time he was supposed to meet us on Nantucket and after some heavy fog rolled in, no one knew when or where or how his flight was going to arrive. We ate dinner and went to bed without word from Connor. Somehow, he was there by breakfast -- not stressed or annoyed by travel difficulties, just happy to be there. I always admired how Connor enjoyed the simple things in life and truly could "go with the flow." I am thankful for having known him, and for the joy he brought into his family's and friend's lives. I am truly saddened by his loss and send my love and condolences to his family and loved ones.

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I've thought about Connor nearly every day for the past 11 years. I'm not an obsessed fan, it is just that his Universal weight machine is still in my carport. When the O'Gormans were leaving Singapore, they wanted to leave bulky items behind. Connor had proceeded to Princeton the year before, so they saw no need to move this piece of equipment to Greece. With the help of some very strong friends, the machine ended up in the middle of my driveway, only a few feet from my front door. I'm not what one could call home proud, but this thing is a monstrosity! Curious Singapore neighbors never fail to stop and stare as Coach uses the machine -- performance art at its best. None the less, there it remains where it takes some skill to navigate around it to access our trash bins or to park a vehicle. Connor's Mom Patricia and I taught in a Community College program in Singapore together. When news of Connor's latest award or accolade circulated, Patricia would modestly shake her head and proclaim "We don't know where this kid came from." I know exactly where he came from. He's the result of great parents. Patricia's patience and aptitude helped even the most mathematically challenged knuckeheads to succeed. Pat's doggedness showed through with his daily 5:30am multi mile runs before heading into work during what was an extraordinarily challenging time for his corporate entity. These qualities shined through their son. That Universal weight machine has served the Coach well. I think Connor would be proud of the "Old Coach" as he continues to be fighting fit, in no small part owing to that machine. Our hearts go out to the O'Gorman family --Pat, Patricia, Katie, Mikey, and my little buddy Kerry as they deal with this unspeakably grotesque rip off.

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I used to call him “The Saint.” In my young college world of 1999, I was introduced to a kind, well-traveled and impossibly unique freshman girl that I just had to have in my sorority (at the time, nothing seemed more important). To my delight she soon became my official KD “Little Sister.” I couldn’t have known she’d my best friend for the next decade, but what I did know was that Katie was already someone else’s Little Sister. And it didn’t take long to realize that that someone was quite extraordinary. Connor would do anything…anywhere, anytime, anyhow…for Katie. Sometimes it was math homework. Other times advice on boys. Or perhaps reassurance that the Braves wouldn’t make that same mistake next game. Maybe he was driving her to or from college, or moving her in and out of her post-college apartments. But he did it all with a sideways smile and without hesitation. Expecting nothing in return and infusing the room with laughter in any situation, his patience seemed to have no end. That was the Connor I knew. The Saint. On paper Connor was a superstar: he excelled at every sport he tried, graduated from Princeton with a job offer that waited for him to pursue his baseball dream, and then excelled at his career in a way that offered limitless possibilities. But off the field and not on any paper, his magically magnetic persona touched people around the world in ways they can’t stop sharing. The small part of him I saw through Katie was only the beginning of a never-ending story of goodwill and humanity. Colleagues, teammates, friends and most dearly Pat, Patricia, Mikey, Kerry, Katie and dear Granny… they are all reflections of incredible person we knew in Connor O’Gorman. My Little Sister’s big brother will never be forgotten, simply because he lives on in every person he’s ever met. Connor, you were pure goodness. We’ll honor and cherish your memory always.

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Mike Jesionowski
14 years ago

I had the honor of being not only Connor's co-worker, but his friend. At work, Connor exhibiting a passion for his job and work ethic that is simply too rare. Outside work, Connor lived life to the fullest, whether he was playing a round of golf, a game of tennis, or simply out for a night on the town. What really comes to my mind right now is just how dependeable Connor was. He flew out to my wedding in Chicago, even though he could only make the mass and couldn't stay for the reception due to a prior commitment. Who does that? Connor did. Recently, I invited a few guys from work over to my apartment to watch some college basketball. Even though Connor wasn't the biggest college hoops fan and he had a match of tennis scheduled for later in the afternoon, he came over. That's just what he did. I wasn't able to stay too late at Connor's 30th birthday party as I wanted to get back home because my wife, Katie, wasn't feeling well. When I told Connor I had to leave (before midnight), he was bummed, but when I said it was because I wanted to see be with Katie, he completely understood....he cared. Connor was so understanding and caring . Connor, we will miss you so much.

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Rebecca Oren
14 years ago

I first met Connor more than three years ago when I began dating Ben (better known to many of you as Haas). As intimidating as it was to join such a large and tightly-knit group of friends, I felt welcome from the very start and owe much of that to Connor and his infectious, friendly, warm and caring personality. I can scarcely remember a good time, group dinner or major event that wasn't permeated by Connor's amazing laugh and fantastic storytelling. More often than not, these events actually took place at Connor's apartment, where he welcomed all of us, all of the time. A year and half ago, Ben and I were honored to hear a speech from Connor at our rehearsal dinner. It was funny and touching and so perfectly suited to us in a way only Connor could articulate. We felt so lucky then to have such an amazing friend support us as we got married and will remember that speech and his amazing presence at our wedding, and in our lives, forever. When Ben and I learned we'd be welcoming a baby girl into our family this June, I immediately thought of how she'd become part of our friends' lives too. I couldn't wait to introduce her to Connor. A natural family man (and a natural with the ladies!) I just knew he'd have her heart, and she his, from day one. We can't wait to tell her countless stories, and to encourage her to live and love the way only her Uncle Connor could! I feel incredibly fortunate to consider Connor a dear and loving friend. The impact he left on my life, and on the life of my family, is indelible and so positive. I will miss him everyday, but take comfort in knowing that I'm better off for having known him. He taught me to embrace every moment, to love and respect my family above all else, and to have one heck of a great time while doing it.

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Blair Berg
14 years ago

Being friends with Connor's little brother Mikey brought me in close contact with this wonderful individual. Although we hardly ever spoke, Connor remained an inspiration to me and I know most of our friends. Since all we ever did, was eat, sleep and play baseball there was no one better to watch and learn from than Connor. He played the game how it was supposed to be played. I can remember watching him play as a high schooler, while I was still a tiny little 6th grader and thinking to myself that when I get older, I would not mind playing baseball the exact same way that Connor did. He was a wonderful person that made everyone around him better. Even though we had little contact, I am so grateful to have known Connor, and the O'Gorman family as a whole. Thank you for everything.

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Katie O
14 years ago

Memorial Service Speech There are no words that do Connor justice. There is no way to explain what Connor is to our family. My big brother is perfect and one thing I don't have to regret is he knew everyday how much I worshipped him. I have read and heard so many stories about Connor in the last few days and we all have so many good memories of my big brother. I cannot choose a couple of stories to share about Connor because he was my everyday. And, he made everyday good. He was my daily phone to say hello or to bother with a petty problem. He was my everyday email to ask for advice. He was my Sunday night dinner. He was my every weekend..... all those parties at his apartment. I could never begin to list everything Connor did for our family. He did the big things but he also did the little things..... he wrote my papers in college, he moved me in and out of college and each New York apartment, got us front row tickets when the Braves or Hawks were in town, bought me jeans, and he solved every family dispute. He had no boundaries and was completely dedicated to me and my family. More than anyone, Connor saw me at my worst but he loved me unconditionally. My life has centered about my big brother - he always had the answer, he never judged, and he always protected us. My life will continue to center around Connor. I will try everyday to be just a fraction of the perfect person that Connor already is. Connor, I love you more than you will ever know and will miss you every second of my life.

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schuylerchang
14 years ago

(From my speech at the memorial service) "Dear Connor, Since we got the news on Sunday, my head has been spinning - so many unanswered questions, so many "what ifs", and lots of heartache. Then, the past few days I've spent time back home with your family - Pat n' Pat, as we always joked, Katie, Mikey, Kerry and I finally got a chance to meet Granny, who I feel like I've known for years now. Every moment with them has brought more peace and being with our friends - it's felt like you are right here with us. I can hear that high-pitched laugh of yours, I can see your calm but exaggerated swagger - all your quirky mannerisms - the way you clasp your hangs so tightly when you launch into a story, your shoulder shrugs, and those famous dance moves we've all seen a million times. I can feel the (oh-so-loving) slap of your hand on my back for a hug and those explosive "handshakes". I can hear you singing about boots, chaps and cowboy hats in that deep, crackly tone. As the days go by now, I can hear your voice in my ear saying "Girlie", as you always called me with that twang in your voice. You assume me, as you always have. And that's what brings a smile to my face. I remember all our good times together and am assumed that you'll always be here with us. A great memory that keeps popping into my head takes me back to our days together on the Upper West Side - in that dingy old apartment where we found the mice - or where they found us! And when they did, both you and Dennis jumped up on the couch as fast as I can remember. Just like a couple of PANSIES! But the memory is from a beautiful spring day - you know those first warm days in New York when everyone is out, swarming Central Park and you can feel that summer is just around the corner. Well, we decided it would be great fun to all go rollerblading together. Only hitch was none of us owned rollerblades. But your heart was set on the idea so the 3 of us hopped in a cab down to Paragon Sports and each got a brand new set of wheels. Then we set off for Central Park - we spent hours wheeling around, lying in the sun on the grassy fields, and laughing at Dennis who took a few good diggers. That was a good day. It was one in a million. But that was a typical day with you. Connor, for the past 10 years you've been a fixture in my life - always someone to count on, always accessible, always positive energy. You are the friend that most people only dream of - a happy soul who brings out the best in everyone around. Every memory with you is a happy one - and they are countless. I feel such pride in being your friend knowing all the joy you've brought into the lives of everyone who knows you. Reading through the memories on this site and in emails I've received, I find myself in tears one minute and up in laughter the next. All the stories are spot-on. You've been like a brother to me - and more so, you are a family guy. You are the best big brother anyone could dream of - devoted to your family's happiness and togetherness. I am so proud of who you've become and know I share that pride with your family. So as I take my seat today, I don't have to reach very deep to bring out the happiness you've brought into my life. And I will keep that with me forever - a piece of you. I love you. And I will always miss you. Love, Schuyler"

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