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Donald Renfranz
12 years ago

Nearly another year gone by. Not many checking in. Perhaps that is good, and shows that healing has gone on. Time moves on. Not our memories, not our hearts. To those of us who love you, a bit of you is always , always with us. Until a brighter day.......

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Donald Renfranz
12 years ago

Nearly another year gone by. Not many checking in. Perhaps that is good, and shows that healing has gone on. Time moves on. Not our memories, not our hearts. To those of us who love you, a bit of you is always , always with us. Until a brighter day.......

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Nikki Lawrence
13 years ago

Eli I have been thinking about you so much lately. I miss you dear friend. I wish you were hear to hang out with all of us. As you know it doesnt matter if the group doesnt talk much anymore, but when we get together it is just like old times. I find myself talking about my memories of you all the time. I hope you are watching down over all of us. Just wanted you to know I think about you all the time. And every time I listen to Queen I think of you Love, Nikki

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OKDON
13 years ago

At times it's hard to believe the time that's gone by. Eli's family and friends growing older, and going through all the good times, bad times, and boring times, too. Did Eli ever hate to be bored! No matter what you are going though, just remember that God loves you and thinks you're special no matter what you think of yourself--or what you think of God, either. Just pass on a little love to someone, somebody. Eli did. It's all that God asks of us.

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OKDON
14 years ago

On 8/15/09 Shaun, Nick, Megan, Zack, TJ, Nicki, Altis, Ethan, Marie, John, and Arin got together with Don & Lisa over at Uncle John & Aunt Pam's Lake June house & had a great time riding the tubes & piggin' out on a BBQ feast. It was great for everyone getting together. We shared "Eli stories", and everyone shared the love. We missed Brandon & Remy, but responsibilities are part of getting older--there'll be a "next time"! Thanks to all! We miss you, Eli!

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Lisa Renfranz
14 years ago

Eli, Today is your 19th birthday, and we're thinking of you and missing you!!!! We love you with all our hearts!!! Mom, Dad, John, Marie, Christy, Tyler, Amy, Kevin, Isaac and Ada

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OKDON
14 years ago

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Yasmin Gonzalez
14 years ago

and I'll never forget you Eli

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Brittany Read
15 years ago

Happy Thanksgiving Eli. i love you and miss you

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OKDON
15 years ago

Brittany, the Family got together in the countryside as we have the past few years. We wondered how hard it would be. You knew Eli's great humor. He was happy when he could make other people happy somehow, someway. It was hard for everyone, us included, to sometimes see beyond the brilliant smile and look into what was beyond. Eli wanted it that way. But Eli is only missing here. He is very much at home with the Lord, and we will all see him once again.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I just want to remind everyone or anyone that Eli is still carried on in our hearts, and, although we've had time, these wounds have not healed. We love you, Eli, and keep on shreddin'!!

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Kenya Brege
15 years ago

well... I never really knew Eli but he was a good friend to alot of people and its sad it came to this and I hope all goes well for friends and family, and to all the Sk8ers that sk8ed with him, i know how it is to lose friends, and Eli is another one that s gone, but God wanted him and took him away from his friends and Family. but to whom he is, he will alway be in our prays and thoughts each day. we will miss you Eli and we will see you again someday... <3

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Kaylee Eckhardt
15 years ago

i had eli in my 6th hr class, government- mrs. hyde.. he bought a shirt on the senior trip that had random words that noone could understand.. i was the only one in that class that knew what it said so everytime someone said "what does that mean?" i would say to him "eli, show them what your shirt says!" and he would just start to laugh and show everyone.. it was so funny and he always had a smile on his face everytime i said something about that shirt.. even though we only saw each other in that class, i felt like he was someone that anyone could run to and talk to about anything.. now everyday i walk into that class and expect to see him with that shirt on so i could say something to him.. but its too bad, i wont get that chance anymore.. eli was an awesome person and he will never be forgotten.. i think more people cared about him then he actually realized.. your always going to be missed eli, you'll always be in our prayers.. i hope you are watching over all of us from above.. put in a good word!! love always- Kaylee Eckhardt 2008

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Kylie
15 years ago

Eli always looked so happy. I remember on the senior trip he took snow boarding lessons, he fell alot. Most of us became close that week. He bought a shirt that described his personality so well. Those of u who knew him know what shirt I'm talking about. LOL evrytime I see a picture of u I just start to cry. I miss u so much Eli. I'll see u again some day. . .

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Anonymous
15 years ago

i didnt know him that well. but he was a really really cool dude i would see him at the skatepark he'd always be smiling. he was the first person to ever help me learn stuff and he would encourage you to get up if you fell the first time or the 5th. you will never be forgotten r.i.p (rip in peace)

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I DIDN'T HANG OUT WITH ELI,BUT I DID KNOW HIM.I WOULD ALWAYS SEE HIM AROUND THE SCHOOL.HE WAS ALWAYS HAVING FUN,AND I NEVER ONCE SEEN HIM LOOKING TROUBLED.I CAN'T BELIEVE IT.HE WILL TRUELLY BE MISSED.I AM VERY SORRY FOR HIS FAMILY'S LOSS.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

i sat beside Eli in my 8th grade science class. we were always getting in trouble for my weird noises and stuff. he tried to teach me how to make those farting sounds with my arm pit, but i could never do it. i remember one day, i had to wear a really old pair of shoes to school, and they smelled bad. i took them off during class, because they hurt my feet. i got up to do something and when i came back they were gone. he had thrown them away and told me i wasn't aloud to get them out until class was over. he is a wonderful person, who has the abilty to make a whole room brighten up with his goofy smile and funny personality. it seems the best always good first. i love ya and miss ya buddy, can't wait to see ya again.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

It's been more than five years since Eli sat in my class at Osceola Middle, but his face is vivid in my mind. He was a bright spot in the room; prepared, thoughtful, kind, and funny. I remember him most of all the students in my classes that year because he impressed me the most; I was certain life held wide open paths for him. My nephew informed me of Eli's death over the weekend, as I no longer reside in Okeechobee, and it shook me to the core. It's tragic always when a young person dies, but more so, when it's one like Eli. My thoughts and well wishes go out to all of Eli's friends and his family; I know he was well loved.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I don't think i will ever look at street signs the same way again, since you started your gum "collection" from the bottom of the one on the end of my street. I remember walking home with you and Brian every day after school. usually we never said much unless Brian was around, then we usually were laughign our butts off at something that had just happened. I really remember how last year, even though you didn't know me that well you still helped out by running around with the rest of the guys and competing with Adam to prove who was stronger. I really wish we could have become better friends... That is prolly something i will always look back on and regret. I hope you are doing amazingly kid.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

My heart breaks for you all. I remember Eli at the "Huck Finn" Days at North Elementary school. What a cute little kid! I can still see Amy showing him the HUGE frogs, and the laughter erupting from them when he finally caught one to race! What a special bond they shared. The love that has been showered on all of these siblings (and cousins) is obvious by the way they love each other and their friends. Eli will be so missed, but his kind spirit will live on. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I didn't know Eli personally but my boys did ( Nick & Cory ), and have nothing but good things to say about him, Cory saw him every week when he came to do the pool cleaning and said he was always happy and skateboarding with a smile on his face... My heart is broken for your loss..you are all in our prayers.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli waited on me and my family one day in Marble Slab. He was such a sweet, respectful young man. The community of Okeechobee has lost a wonderful young man.

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OKDON
15 years ago

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Kenya Brege
15 years ago

He was great at it

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OKDON
15 years ago

Shot at a photo shoot in November 2007. Eli would practice one particular trick for hour after hour--the neighbors could hear his board smacking the concrete all across the neighborhood often late at night. No one ever complained. Some things he did VERY well, but no one could talk him into any contests after that early one at the Skatepark (2003?). He wanted to do every move perfectly, but it was tough with his injuries and the height. This photo showed his concentration, even on a simple grind move.

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OKDON
15 years ago

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Kenya Brege
15 years ago

he had a wonderful smile and knew how 2 use it, R.I.P we'll mizz you ALOT

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OKDON
15 years ago

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OKDON
15 years ago

ELI RIDING A HORSE SUMMER 2006! Maggie Valley, NC. Eli had worked on his Uncle's and Grandfather's ranches over the years. He would have much rather have been riding a skateboard! Here Eli is wearing one of his favorite Mardras shorts.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Me and Eli had 10th grade spanish together. It was always fun sitting in Senor Hays class and messing around with hays. I remember, he always took Hays jacket and wore it the whole class period without hays noticing. We had so much fun and goofed around so much that we even got ourselves kicked out a couple times. Then we were room mates on the senior trip. Eli was one of the only people i knew on that trip, and he was the one that made it the most fun and unforgettable. We never really had a chance to talk that much, but if we did i know we could have been really good friends. I remember, Hays referred to us as brothers in that class. And thats what he is to me, a brother. I lost family that day, and i will never forget it. R.I.P. Eli. I love you man.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli and me had spanish for the past two years together and this year we had Bible Studies together. It was awesome just sitting there and knowing the moment that the classroom was suspecting it Eli would let out a cloud that could choke a skunk. He was always ready to crack a joke and ready to talk about music. I would go into Marble slab hoping Eli was on the shift so we could just goof around. I'll miss him during those queit moments in class...

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I did not have the pleasure of getting to know Eli as well as some but we did share a class together. Spanish. It was at the very end of the day, but I still couldn't wait to get to it to see what Eli had in store that day. This would happen on a regular basis, the class would be silent(cause either we had just got yelled at to be quiet by the teacher or we were working on something) and Eli would let a huge one out that would fill up his entire half of the class. Most of the time he would blame it all on the person sitting in front of him but he liked taking credit for it every once in a while. Eli was undoubtly one of the funniest people I've ever had the pleasure meeting. I remember he made me laugh so hard one time just before taking a huge gulp of gatorade, I had to dart outside before it came out of my nose. Eli had a sweet heart and cared so much about everyone he knew. He'll be missed my so many and is Still in good hands.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli had 7th hour American History with me his junior year. He was quiet, but every once and awhile he would say something that cracked the whole class up. He was an awesome kid who came from an incredible family. My thoughts and prayers rest with the Renfranz family and to those who knew him best.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

We weren't as great of friends as most but you were still a friend and a great one at that. I remember riding the bus with you and you would always laugh at me because of the crazy stuff i would do. You were a great person and ill miss you alot!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!!

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I didn't know Eli that well, we just had 5th hour together, for Bible. He didn't speak much, but he always had a smile on his face. He will be missed. Bye Eli.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

i didnt know you to well but dude were all miss you dude just rest in peace and know we all care bro

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Wow...eli...i heard about it todayy and i saids NO THAT CANT BE ELI...and then when i fouundd out it was i criedd u were an AWSOME personn and that day u were skatinn by me and we meet it wsa AWSOMEE ur a Great person!!!! WOW i miss yaa already!

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Bro I didn't know you great. I would be lying if I said we were really close, but I also would be lying if I said I didn't ever meet you. From the limited time we hung out and skated, I quickly noted you were a giant with a gentle soul, and one of the best skates I've ever met.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I did not know him, but he died way too young........May God be with him & his family & friends. Never take life or anything for granted nor underestimate the impact we have on each and every person we meet. Because you can or may save someone's life today. Someone or anyone e-mail me @ msudolfan@yahoo.com......thanks.........Brandon

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Wow, Eli. I will never forget your crazy self. In the beginning, I always thought you were quiet & shy. But when I actually started to get to know you, I was surprised. You were one of the happiest people I had ever met! Every day I would go tan, then run over to marble slab just to see you. & you would always make me a strawberry banana smoothie, your treat. But I would only get them if you made them, except for that one day I was forved to get one made by Sean. (It was no comparison with yours!) You would always cheer me up & you would never let me leave your presence without getting one of your big hugs! Unlike the rest of the gang, you actually liked Brayden and you didn't mind holding him when I had him. Except for when he drooled on you. But he loved you. And that whole day at the mall you carried him around, b/c you wanted to. Then when you stole my shirt! I was so mad, yet I couldn't stop laughing when you peeked up from the slab with it on your head. You just looked so funny! I would have to try & save Nikki from you & Sean. You guys alway tried taking her things and beating her up! It sucks we couldn't have hung out more. I was really looking forward to that Busch Gardens trip. Just so I could spend time with you. You always did make my day. But I will NEVER forget you. Everytime I'm upset, I'll think of you. B/c you always have & always will make me smile. I still consider you my boyfriend. But I don't think I'm going to prom this year. I don't wanna go with anyone else but you! If my prom date is missing prom, then so am I. I love you boyfriend. :)

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I had the pleasure of teaching Eli English in 8th and 10th grade. He had an uncanny way of always making me laugh. From his goofy grin to his charming wit, Eli added life to my classes. He will be greatly missed.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

I remember all the days ms hyde kept teasing him about being quiet. he was so happy on the senior trip too. I didn't really know him that well but I did know that he was a great person. RIP Eli. We all miss you

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli - your sweet charm will be missed by all of us at CIS - the skate park will not be the same with out you.

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Rebecca Foster
15 years ago

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Kenya Brege
15 years ago

he always has a smile on his face <3

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Rebecca Foster
15 years ago

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Rebecca Foster
15 years ago

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Rebecca Foster
15 years ago

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Yasmin Gonzalez
15 years ago

He loved skateboarding so much he even had a little finger board he used in Auto tech.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

The last time I had seen Eli, he was leaving the slab with Sean. I had just got off work at the drive thru and went up there to see my sister. While we were there he stole Rachel's phone and called the slab phone while everyone was standing around. Brandon answered the phone, he knew the number looked familiar, but no one said anything. Then you look at Eli and he's got this huge grin on his face and Rachel just sprints at him.. Nothing seemed wrong. I guess he was pretty awesome about hiding his feelings. There were plenty of other memories I had too. When I went to the beach with Sean and his friends, Eli was one. I ate at Cici's for the first time with him. There was also a time at the tanner when Sean told him to smell this lotion it just happend to jump out of the bottle onto his face.. But Eli wasn't mad. He laughed and said he would get Sean back. Now that I think about it. I was around him alot more than I thought. He was truly an amazing person. I know he touched my life. I think the biggest impact he had tho was on his friends. None of them will ever forget him. I wish he would have just talked to someone. There are so many people that would have done anything for him. He was loved. Thanks for blessing me with your presence and always making me smile. I will never forget. Jam on to your old school Eli.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli was an awesome kid. I remember when I used to hang out with him and his older brother John at their house, he would do everything he could to make the dogs slide around on the tiles of the livingroom and kitchen floors. They just looked so damn funny sliding around and whatnot. I would laugh so hard. And Eli was CONSTANTLY smiling. I never saw him during a sad moment. When I heard what had happened, I was completely mindblown. I'll miss you man.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli was just a wonderful person, who had this natural ability to make anybody laugh at anytime. I'll never forget our school days together. He will be missed.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli was a great guy and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. I worked with Eli and I alwayz had so much fun with him just goofin off and having fun. We alwayz had fun at work playing soccer in the slab, hiding things and slacking off. He never let me be mad or sad when people got me ticked off he was alwayz so considerate of other people and alwayz stayed even when he wasn't working and helped me close. He alwayz made me laugh and joked around with me and I will miss him immensly. I will never 4get Lidge and my heart goes out to his family. R.I.P. my dear friend you will be greatly missed- and every time I hear the Foxy Lady song I'll think of you

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Anonymous
15 years ago

When I first moved to Okeechobee, Eli was the first kid i really hung out with. He was the first friend I really made. And theres not a time we hung out that i can remember where I didnt get hurt somehow. But i wouldnt want it anyother way. I considered him one of my best friends. Now I wish we had hung out a bit more then we did. Im going to miss the sounds of his board hitting the driveway from across the neighborhood. But im really gonna miss Eli the most.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

When I first moved to Okeechobee, Eli was the first kid i really hung out with. He was the first friend I really made. And theres not a time we hung out that i can remember where I didnt get hurt somehow. But i wouldnt want it anyother way. I considered him one of my best friends. Now I wish we had hung out a bit more then we did. Im going to miss the sounds of his board hitting the driveway from across the neighborhood. But im really gonna miss Eli the most.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

Eli Renfranz. Not to much I can say right now can change what had happened to an amazing person like yourself. I just wish we were closer than we were man. Out of everybody I ever skated with in this town, I can honestly say you were the realest. For as long as I known you, thats all you knew was to skate, me too man, me too. I just wish I would've got to known you more than I did. So, therefor I could've known more about you, and perhaps prevent what had happened from happening. And out of everybody I've ever met you "honestly" were the last person that would deserve what had happened. I love you forever man, and I will always remember you, your the best. And when I get up there you better believe you owe me a game of S.K.A.T.E son, r.i.p Eli.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

My son Aaron has many cousins. Eli was by far his favorite. When Peggy would take him to Florida to visit her brother Don, my son was beside himself with the anticipation of being with Eli. He said Eli was funny, and "cool" and "talks to me like an equal" (which is important for a kid two years younger). Aaron was filled with admiration and respect for what was obviously a fine young man. My regret is although I met him a few times I didn't get to know him better personally. Through my son's eyes and the descriptions of those who did know him, he was a great guy with a keen sense of humor and loved to laugh. Everyone will miss him terribly. A terrible tragedy. Our deepest condolences... our thoughts are with you.

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