My name isTracey Budge. We met very briefly at least once. I don’t know whether you ever met my children; Rachael, Alex & Hannah May were all good friends with Noah, as was I.

Every year on yesterday’s tragic anniversary my children get together with some of the other neighbourhood kids that were friends of Noah’s (Vickey, Olivia & Hanah) to grieve and share their favorite memories, of which there are many! The weekend prior my kids & I had a barbecue with our friend & neighbor Sharon (the elderly lady who boarded & walked dogs. They had a close friendship & a mutual adoration for dogs!) Noah came and became our grill master! We all had such a wonderful time! Our evening concluded with everyone making beautiful graffiti all over our fences, which were due to be replaced that weekend, but hilariously stayed up for at least another 2 weeks! (The artwork was Sharon’s idea, and thank goodness she was a member of our condo board!)

I wanted to share these memories with you, and let you know how much he touched our hearts, and that he will be with us always.

I have a photo of the beautiful memorial that the kids made for him in Fish Creek Park yesterday. Let me know if I can forward it to you.

We hope you’re all finding some peace.

We miss Noah’s smiling face and easy companionship around the neighborhood. Noah and Bear were always so kind and watchful of the kids on the playground, we miss that! Our hearts are with you Helena, Bob, and Allyn.

I cannot put into words the sadness I feel at the passing of such a fine young man. I had the pleasure of knowing Noah and having him in my classes. He was always proud to be himself and he shared so much of himself with all of us. He was a unique individual and truly touched the lives of all those he met. I know my life is richer for having known him. My love and prayers are with you all at this time and I will carry a treasured memory of Noah with me for the rest of my days. Much love.

Bob, Helena and Allyn, words can’t express how sorry we are for your immeasurable loss. I see that Noah shares my son Michael’s third name, Henry – for our grandpa/papa. Your angel and the rest of your family are in our prayers…I haven’t see you in about 35 years Bob, but if you need me call. Your mom has my number and email. With love to you all – your cousin Sue and Laurence Walters and family

Noah was a great young man, he came to the office at school many times and would do the sign outside for us. He was always willing to help out. Noah will be missed greatly, my prayers are with the family during this time.