Josh Arden

“Noah was one of my closest friends for almost 10 years. I remember when we first met: I was in 5th grade and he was in 3rd grade, and we both went to Sunrise Drive Elementary school in Tucson, Arizona. We had recess together and one of us always played on this bouncer thing that I can’t describe while we talked. We addressed each other by full first and last names whenever greeting each other on the playground. Our friendship was so strong that it was hard for both of us to go a single recess without seeing each other. When he moved to San Diego, we kept in touch and saw each other once or twice a year whenever he visited Tucson.

“One of the things I remember the most about Noah was how he always remember my exact birth date, and even remembered it for my parents and my sister as well. Every year, he remembered to text me on my birthday; I never remembered his and felt bad, but he assured me no hard feelings. This is something I really liked about him: all he had to know was I meant no harm, no apology needed.

“I was fascinated with his handcuff collection that he showed me whenever he visited in Tucson, and I think he told me they were the same heavy-duty cuffs that police officers use. We would take turns pretending one of us was the cop and the other was getting arrested and cuffed. We once went to CVS and bought handcuffs together and I still have them to this day. They’re rather flimsy compared to what he had in his collection, but they serve as a symbol of the great times we had playing with his high-quality cuffs.

“I will always miss Noah, and I pray that one day I may receive a sign of his presence. I look forward to whenever my words may reach him, because I know it would mean more to him than I can possibly describe. He deserves to know what I have to say about my appreciation for him being in my life.”

Scott Arden

“Noah was a very good friend to our son, Josh. It was exciting for Josh each time he got to visit Noah at his home in Tucson, AZ. The big question of the day was, ‘do I bring my bathing suit?’ At visit time, I’d come to the front door and hear the enthusiastic sounds of the family dog; then Noah would appear with a warm, easy smile and a greeting that was direct and genuine. It was an extra treat to chat with Kim and Lane, who were always glad to see the two friends together. After the family moved to California, Josh and Noah met up when he and Kim were back in Tucson. I picture Noah at our kitchen table enjoying a snack, sometimes quiet but always polite and pleasant. I see his face lighting up as he talked; and his good nature was infectious. I believe that Noah had a natural instinct to find and enjoy what is good and right in the experience of friendship. We will miss him dearly.”

Carol Backs

“Dear Noah, I loved spending Christmas with you. It was so wonderful to see the sheer joy — opening your gifts — the surprise and excitement. You always remembered everyone’s birthday. Thank you, Noah. Love, Aunt Carol”

Greg Backs

“Noah, There is a hole in my heart, a void that won’t easily be filled. Gentle and kind. On January 22 I walked out on my porch and there was a bright star in the east. By the twinkle I knew it was you. Love, Uncle Fun”

Michelle Backs

“Noah’s enthusiasm, warmth, and kindness always stayed with me, long after our visits would end. Noah has always held a special place in my heart. He has been an inspiration. Love, Aunt Michelle.”

Tammy Backs

“I loved hearing Noah sing. He had the most beautiful voice. I will miss you always. Love you. Aunt Tammy”

Connor Bey

“I remember meeting Noah in high school and being in his class. He was a very caring person. He wanted to help others by becoming a police officer. He would have probably been a great cop. He was always greeting people and asking if they were ok and seeing if they needed a helping hand. I will sincerely miss you Noah.”

Sue Brish

“Noah was a great friend to our son Josh. They met at Sunrise Drive Elementary School in Tucson, AZ. They were in different grades, so they met on the playground during recess and became friends. They celebrated several birthdays and Halloweens together, and they just enjoyed hanging out together. I remember Noah’s love of handcuffs; he brought them to our house to play with. How fitting it was to learn that he wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. He was always incredibly polite; I was so, so impressed. We were disappointed when we found out he was moving away to CA. But he contacted Josh each time he returned to Tucson to visit family. Josh was very happy to see him each time, and we were so delighted to have him here! I will remember Noah as a sweet, content boy and an incredibly loyal friend to our son. Noah will be missed greatly by our family. Rest in peace, dear Noah.”

Uriah B

“I went to Springall Academy with Noah. I’ll never forget him always welcoming me with a bright smile and unmatchable kindness. Noah and me bonded over music. I wish I would have gotten to know him more. Miss you Noah.”

Ivette and Sal Castellitto

“We are saddened by your loss. We enjoyed seeing Noah in the Lakepoint community. He was always kind and respectful. My son, Josh, invited Noah and Toby over for dinner. Noah was so polite and had great table manners. Noah shared with us his career passion to become a police officer. We know without a doubt he would have made a great police officer. We salute you Noah for always doing your best and being a kind and wonderful person. You will be missed.”

Carl Cherry II

“I had the pleasure of being Noah’s drum instructor while he lived in Tucson AZ. When the family moved to San Diego, I would still hear from Noah via text or the occasional call. Every time Noah came to Tucson for a visit he would request a drum lesson and I would happily open my schedule to make it so. I will miss him as he was one of my favorite students. The time we spent together was always special and I looked forward to every lesson. Noah had a gift of remembering important dates. I would always get a text on my birthday and he would also remember my wife and son’s birthday too. Thank you Lane and Kim for allowing me to be a small part of Noah’s life. He was a definite blessing to me and to all those that were lucky enough to know him. Rest In Peace my young friend…love you!”

Cathy Derecki

“Over the past couple of years, Noah had become like another member of our family. He had met our son Blake at school, and they had become fast friends. His bright smile, his enthusiasm, his love of music were infectious. Noah came over one day and informed me that he had $37 in saved up allowance. We went to Target together, and Noah purchased all kinds of contraband snacks: Hot Pockets, cans of Coke, frozen pizza. I felt guilty for sneaking around his Mom’s back, but Noah was ecstatically happy. Of course, he shared them with our son. Noah was always unbelievably generous. He had all of our birthdays, and their years, memorized. So, when I turned 59 this past year, Noah reminded me a few times that I was ‘even older’ than his Mom. He made me laugh so hard, and he was always so kind. He would hug us when he came over, and then hang out with our son in his room all day, and sometimes all night. We are devastated that our son has lost his future roommate and BFF. We miss you, Noah. The world is not the same without you.”

Noel Derecki

“Noah was perhaps one of the kindest young men I have ever had the privilege to meet. He was polite to a fault (he called me ‘Mr. Noel’ because he said it was disrespectful to call a parent by just their first name so we compromised), but most touching was his patience — he stuck by my son, no matter what.

“Quite honestly, of all my son Blake’s friends, Noah was easily my favorite — no contest. I would always tell him as he was leaving: ‘Noah, you are welcome any time,’ and I really meant it. I meant it for selfish reasons, mostly — Noah brought a smile to my lips every single time he was around. He ‘lit up a room,’ as they say, with an infectious energy that was earnest, honest, and determinedly positive. He made me feel like the coolest Dad ever. Noah laughed at all my dorky jokes (unlike my own kids) and made me feel funny and clever. He liked my cooking, too, and so I always felt inspired to make him a burger or a snack when he was over. Because Noah was so honest, when he gave a compliment, I knew it was sincere. Noah had the rare gift of making one feel needed and appreciated.

“Another reason I loved having Noah over was as a role-model for our son. Blake went from being a pre-teen who loved to be outside to a teenager who hated to leave his room. But he’d always come out for Noah. They’d go skateboarding, take long walks, whatever. When Blake walked out with Noah, I never worried about them getting into trouble. You could trust Noah to know the ‘right thing’ to do. Noah was like the little angel that sits on your shoulder, nudging you to make the positive choice. He was just genuinely good.

“I haven’t quite accepted that he is gone. I had hoped that he and Blake might be room-mates or something in the years to come. Now that can’t happen, and I am so very sad. And if I am this sad, I can’t imagine how our son will feel. He is out-of-state, and we’re going to let him know in a couple of days. I just don’t exactly know how to tell him his best buddy is gone.”

Boaz Dresslar

“Noah was a kind, careful and good guy. He would come over to my house with his skateboard and I would scooter. We had a blast riding around the neighborhood. Kim and Lane were the most active and fun parents. I know they are distraught now. I hope they feel better. I will forever miss Noah.”

Emily Dresslar

“Noah was a great conversationalist. He could talk about the McDonald’s menu with more rapport and intrigue than I thought possible given the topic. He really liked the quarter pounders but wasn’t so sure about the dessert menu items, McFlurries yes but apple pie not so much. Handcuffs, birth dates of every member of his family and mine, and gingivitis were all subjects that he explored to great lengths. He was always polite. When the conversation was exhausted he simply said, ‘May I please go now?’

“He invented his own language, Noahese. It sounded vaguely Ukrainian mixed with Japanese. It was in this language that he would greet people. His warm smile and wave always got a hello in response and people just assumed that he had said hello and they misheard.

“He loved that Josh included him when Josh’s friends came over. It meant a lot to him to have friends over at the house. Josh was a very good brother to him.

“Noah would never want to hurt anyone. He was gentle and sweet, loving and kind. He was a good boy. We were lucky to have known him, to have had him be a part of our lives and to teach us how to love simply and fully.”

Peter Dresslar

“Our entire family will surely remember Noah. He was the friendliest kid in the neighborhood, and was always up for including everybody in everything. Of course, he always remembered our birthdays. Noah payed real attention to people, a trait I hope our children will emulate.

“Along with Noah himself, we acknowledge Kim’s and Lane’s years of working, reaching, experimenting, battling for a better life for their son. While the idea of losing of a child is stunning and alien, the struggle of parenting is intimately familiar. Noah’s family struggled so hard and so lovingly. We keenly feel their loss and will remember their fight.”

Toby Dresslar

“I have been putting off writing this because it was too hard. Noah was an amazing, talented, polite man, who always liked showing off his handcuffs or drums. We had really great times together; he would always smile because someone else was smiling and also never hesitated to help or to join in. I will miss Noah greatly and I know he is listening.”

Pat Dunham

“My favorite memory is a smiling boy trying the ‘rides’ at a soccer tournament. He held my hand and now I will hold him in my heart. With love to the whole family.”

Juan Fregoso

“When I first met Noah it was December of 2014. Almost immediately noticeable was how distinctly different Noah was from other middle-school-aged students; he was mature beyond his years and even dressed the part — quite smartly & sophisticated. It was apparent that Noah owned who he was and had no real concern over the common trivialities that consume other teens. Noah and his pleasant personality was captivating, with just a touch of kindness and heart of gold.

“Noah traversed the school hallways with a bounce in his step; he walked with great posture and busily greeted all faces with a grin, wave of polite gesture, and/or a warming hello. It was his gift to others — gifts that unfortunately missed meaning to his peer group, but provided real inspiration to old-hat adults. Noah had a uniquely genuine and kind soul.

“We spent much time shooting baskets and chatting. He was always perceptive to even the faintest of sounds and would call attention in attempt to have you experience or at least contemplate the very things that he was experiencing. Noah willingly shared small pleasures, choice of music, humor, various interests, even his worries and concerns.

“It is abundantly evident that so many people cared greatly about Noah, each in our own way, each with our own different roles and each blessed that his life’s journey at some point intertwined with our own.

“During his breaks at school, Noah often played from his phone, while providing some vocal accompaniment. Since our days together two songs in particular have always brought him to the forefront of of my mind — ‘What a Fool Believes’ by the Doobie Brothers and ‘Everybody’s Talking At Me’ by H. Nilsson. Noah provided particular attention to the high vocal range at the end of the song by Nilsson as he crooned, ‘I won’t let you leave my love behind.’ Indeed, Noah, we will all continue to carry your love forward with us forevermore — now etched into heart & mind. Singing Softly”

Jake Hintze

“I used to teach music lessons all around town, setting up drums in student’s houses. As much fun as it was, I can honestly say that I have not encountered someone so outwardly willing and excited to learn an instrument in my life. He was the first one to the door when I arrived, anxious to get the lesson started as we loaded equipment into his room, and the drumming couldn’t start soon enough. If he was having a hard day, drumming would fix it right away. He played with a fierce bombastic style that is uncommon even for seasoned veterans of the craft, and his speed around the kit was astonishing. I still, to this day, do not know how one person could have as much energy as he did. I will always fondly remember those lessons, not to mention logging onto virtualdrumming.com, or playing Nerf battles in the backyard when the lesson got too difficult. Your passion and fire for life will not be forgotten. Rest easy buddy.”

Bobbi Houston

“We all loved Noah here. I am so grateful for the time he spent with us and riding the horses. I know he truly loved being here or he would not have come. We know he is happy; it is just us who are very sad. But nobody can take all the great memories.”

Jonathan Jarrell

“I’ve never known someone to find and share enjoyment in life quite like Noah. Whether his favorite music, a good joke, or a catchy advertising slogan, when Noah found something enjoyable, he made sure you knew. I believe that Noah shared the things he enjoyed because he wanted to spread that joy around — and he did. I was fortunate to be the recipient of his generosity on many occasions. A favorite memory of Noah is driving the boat while he tubed and catching a glimpse of him in the rearview mirror with his trademark ear-to-ear smile, just enjoying the ride. That is among many memories of Noah that will ensure he continues to spread the joy to me until I see him again. Rest easy. Uncle Jonathan”

Lauren Jarrell

“Sweet Noah, when you were just a baby I remember playing with you on the floor at Grandma and Grandpa’s house in Atlanta. I remember looking into your big blue eyes and understanding that you had a deep, gentle soul. What I will miss dearly is the depth with which you savored the things you loved most. A great joke — whether you were sharing it with someone or they with you — could last for days. I love how you would come back around later, point your finger at me, recite the punch line again, tell me that it was a good one and give it another good laugh. The same was true for whatever music you were into at the time. You always surprised me with your sophisticated taste and helped me to appreciate songs and artists all over again, many that I hadn’t listened to in years. And really, if you love something, why not put it on repeat for as long as you want? Your joy was just infectious. I will miss you always and think of you often. Until I see you again. Love, Aunt Lauren”

Lizzie Jarrell

“Dear Noah, You were super sweet. I remember once you and I were tubing at the lake. Uncle Randy was driving, and it started to rain and you said ‘I think we should go in just in case of lightning.’ And then Uncle Randy said ‘If it starts to lightning then I will be the first one in!’ You laughed so hard. I will miss you. Lizzie”

Emma Kapp

“Dear Noah, I have been thinking of exactly what I’ve wanted to say to you for a while, and it’s been difficult to put everything into words, but I’ll try my best. I first want to say thank you, for showing everyone you met no matter who they were, what love looks like. Every time I saw you, you immediately lifted my spirit. Whether I had just gotten off a long flight, or woken up early and groggy, you immediately greeted me with a warm smile and hug. I think life gets so busy, yet these moments are the most important and often overlooked. However, you never seemed to let a moment go by without being engaged in what you were doing, whether it be the conversation you were having, or the meal you were eating. You always took the time to appreciate the little, yet the arguably most important things in life. Watching you interact with the world inspired me to be a kinder, more compassionate person. You never failed to make those around you feel loved and cared about and expressed your care in such a gentle and thoughtful manner. You approached every situation with patience, whether it was opening presents, or waiting to show me or tell me about your newest interest. There are so many things I wish I could thank you for showing me, and teaching me, and I regret not being more aware of these small moments when they were happening. I feel you with me everyday, and I am wishing you every happiness. All of my love, Emma”

Josh Kapp

“Dear Noah, There are still so many things I have to learn from you, so many gifts to receive. The joy you could take from eating a hamburger. Completely in the present, the here and now. Patience. If we agreed to have that hamburger three days from now, say, on Thursday, you wouldn’t ask to go earlier. Of course, when the appointed time rolled around on that Thursday, you were there in front of me, ready to go, but that was all. You never whined. Understanding, too, most of all. If I had to change the day or time on you, explaining why, you listened and would say something like, ‘Oh, OK. I understand.’ You took it for what it was, without expressing frustration with me. I am still learning to accept and appreciate people as they are, rather than wanting them to conform to my own expectations. I struggle with a world that didn’t give you that understanding. Seeing your smile helps me, and your love inspires the resolve in me to help us all appreciate differences as gifts. I feel you with me every day, Noah. I think maybe because that’s what you always wanted, just to be with us. I see the world differently, more clearly, because of you, and am gifted to have you as a guide by my side. I wish you peace. Josh”

Amy Kenworthy, George, Mariel, Bryce

“We have beautiful memories of Noah from when he was a little boy through his lovely entrance to manhood. If there was one thing we remember him for, it is his absolutely beautiful smile. He was always there to talk to us and tell us about what he was thinking about, working on, or interested in doing that day. He laughed a lot and loved to wear his hat. He had a calm demeanor that has always reminded us of his dad, Lane. And a laugh that sounded like that of his mom, Kim. He will always be an incredibly special part of our beautiful large family. We will miss seeing your smile every summer at Mainsail, Noah, and will celebrate your beautiful personality and warm ways for the rest of our lives. With all of our love to Lane, Kim, Hannah, Mia, and Josh. We’re sending you the warmest of hugs and fondest of memories of our times together from across the large pond that is between us.”

Asa Kenworthy

“My all time favorite memory of Noah was watching him play with his cousins at a very young age while visiting the old lake house. He took such joy in running from room to room yelling loudly “Hello!” to everyone in his path. His smile and enthusiasm were completely unbridled and contagious. As he grew up, and when we could visit together, l enjoyed talking with him about all kinds of various subjects, having mature conversations and learning lots of things from him, and of course hearing a good joke! I do wish we could have had more visits despite living halfway around the world. He was a wonderfully special member of our family and he will be terribly missed by many. Our deepest thoughts and love to Lane and Kim, and his siblings Mia, Hannah and Josh. Rest In Peace, Noah.”

Ellie Kenworthy

“Oh Noah, how much I love your sweet spirit. Because you and Trey share the same birthday month and year, I always felt like we had a special connection to you. And, given our common love for numbers and and the patterns in numbers, you seemed to understand me in a way that others do not. Your unconditional love for everyone at all times is the example that I want to draw strength from going forward. The legacy you leave behind is one of joy, understanding, and kindness — I hope can always follow in your footsteps. I’ll be keeping up with dates, numbers, and their patterns until I see you again. Rest well. Love, Aunt Ellie”

Jenna Kenworthy

“I have fond memories of spending time with Noah at the Lake House. We talked about music and told each other jokes. I liked Noah’s jokes; they genuinely made me laugh. It makes me so sad knowing Noah isn’t here anymore, but I pray he is at peace and telling jokes in Heaven with Robin Williams. Thinking of you every day Lane, Kim, Mia, Hannah and Josh. All our love, Jenna and family.”

Lee Kenworthy

“One of my fondest memories of Noah was his amazing knowledge of the family members’ birth dates. He could tell me when any one of our family members was born. It still astounds me and will always put a big smile on my face. We’ll miss you Noah. All of my love to your/our family. Uncle Lee.”

Marti and Owen Kenworthy, Katherine, and Connor

“We have so many wonderful memories of Noah! We remember him singing with his black hat, drawing hotels and charging people to stay there, and visits to Cheeseburger Bobby’s. We ate there on Wednesday in his memory. Oh and taking him to Walmart to get contraband. He had such a sweet gentle heart and always quick to smile. He loved to go fast on the tube and would tube all day if someone would drive! We love you sweet Noah and will be so happy when we see you again.”

Randy Kenworthy

“I had the honor of watching Noah grow from a sweet and shy young boy to a handsome young man with a charming smile and a twinkle in his eyes. He loved to greet strangers and friends alike with a joke, his unique language, or (my favorite) his comedic take on the Three Stooges singsong ‘hello, Hello, Hello!…….HELLO!’ He always took a moment afterwards to toss back his head as he savored the joke with a smile and a chuckle.

“Noah was a old soul who loved listening to Sinatra, Martin, and Louis Prima but he also found joy in classic rock and folk music. It wasn’t unusual to see him walking around, with his headphones on, bouncing in time and playing air drums to whatever may have been on his playlist that day.

“Noah worked SO hard throughout his childhood and adolescence to fit in, follow the rules, and not rock the boat. He knew he was wired differently and although it frustrated him, he kept working diligently and always tried his best. He was so genuine in every word and action that he made it impossible not to love him dearly.

“He will be missed so much by all who knew and loved him, but the knowledge that he is now at peace brings me great comfort. Uncle Randy”

Suzan Kenworthy

“Beloved Noah, May your soul endure through the ages. You were a unique personality — much loved by family and friends, never to be forgotten. Grandma Suzan Kenworthy”

Tom Kenworthy

“I have two major recollections of being with Noah. One is his great enjoyment of listening to music as he strode back and forth with emphatic hand signals for the downbeat and sometimes a hopstep added. Also, his ease with engaging me in conversation with a pleasant question like ‘Hey grandpa, what do you think about …….?’ I will miss him greatly. Grandpa Tom Kenworthy”

Will Kenworthy

“Noah was one of the most creative, fun-loving, and genuine people I have ever met. There was never a dull moment with him because he seemed to be always working on another exciting project. I loved seeing him this past fall at one of my games and talking with him about our mutual love for Dave Matthews Band. I am very lucky to have known you Noah all these years and I will miss you dearly. Will”

Dawn Kilgallon

“Tonight when I sadly told my daughter Kiarri that Noah had passed away, she smiled as she always does. As I tried to correct her for her response, she reminded me that ‘Noah will be ok, he’s in heaven.’ Noah was in music class with Kiarri and we enjoyed meeting him at the coffeehouse program that their school held. Noah was always very sweet to Kiarri and she missed him when he changed schools. Please know our heartfelt pain at the loss of your very beautiful son, may God hold you in the hollow of his hands to comfort you in the days ahead. There are no words for the loss of a child; it is with firsthand wisdom that I wish you Grace and Love.”

Barbara Klarman

“We met Noah a few years ago when our daughter Emily asked us to pick Noah up from school. He recognized our daughter ‘s car which we were driving. Then he nodded to us, opened the car door and jumped in. We all introduced ourselves and proceeded North to take Noah home. He was sweet and gentle and a pleasure to be with. Our condolences go out to Noah’s family as they try to deal with such a sad, unimaginable loss.”

Gwen Lawler-Tough

“My memory of Noah is short and sweet. He was the age of the photo on the memorial page-about nine or ten, with his characteristic sparkly eyes. Noah and his family had come up to Lake Almanor, CA to spend a little time with his uncle, Greg Backs, and his Aunt, Maureen, who were staying at our cabin on the lake.

“It’s idyllic on the lake in the summer. Beautiful fir tree lined shores, clear blue water perfect for swimming, sunshine in spades. Our boat was an old one … but it did the job of towing many tubers (people riding tubes) on the lake for a day of fun. On this day, Noah was on board the boat when my husband, Rich, asked him if he would like to drive! Wow!! Noah was pure delight at the wheel and loved every second.

“We are so deeply sorry for your loss. It is incomprehensible, shattering. I hope you will remember Noah for all the wonderful memories that are being shared here. I am so glad to add this small, tiny bit of his beautiful life that we witnessed.”

Kenyera Lofton

“Noah was an exceptional young man. He was a kind and gentle soul and always had a smile that brightened my day. He will truly be missed. Rest peacefully Noah”

Katie Malley

“I always felt totally comfortable in Noah’s company. He could care less about what you’re wearing, or what you look like, and just accepted people for how they are. I will always remember our talk in the car after Stone Mountain about middle school, our talk at Sunflower Cafe about music (his music made me so happy to hear him talk about), and our talk this past September about college and life. He has a golden heart, and I will miss him forever. Your cousin, Katie”

Mindy Martyn

“I only knew Noah for a short while but from the first moment I met him, I knew he had a very special soul! Noah was one of the few friends my son Tyler had ever made. Tyler’s very best friend as Tyler would say! My husband and I were overjoyed after meeting Noah, we both saw what a polite and good soul he was. We knew that Noah was good for Ty and loved watching that friendship grow. Noah touched so many lives … we are blessed to have known him. I will never forget those beautiful eyes, sweet smile, and the perfect handshake! I know you’re smiling and at peace sweet Noah!”

Anouk McCombs-Morales

“Noah was one of the most genuine, sweet, and kind hearted people I’ve ever known. I knew him just shy of 5 years, but it really felt like forever! I remember the first day I met him, I walked into his room and he played an impressive drum solo for me. Noah will always be like a brother to me; I’ve learned so much from him. I’m so happy to have spent some of the best times of my life with him there, and I will always remember his big, bright smile. There are no words good enough to describe how wonderful he was, or how much he could brighten your day. Noah, I love you so much! I’m going to miss you always.”

Tyler McIntire

“You were my best friend. I wish I could’ve hung out with you more; you were like a brother to me. I can’t believe you’re gone. You will be gone but never forgotten. R.I.P Noah. I miss you bro.”

Casey Parker

“We always enjoyed having Noah in our home. He liked to position himself at the grill next to Glenn, relishing his role as taste tester and quality controller. I made sure a doggie bag was always sent home, which clearly pleased Noah.

“We found our way into Noah’s heart through his stomach. He found his way into ours by being the polite, inquisitive, kind, and sweet young man that he truly was. We are so saddened by his passing and hope that his family finds comfort in knowing how admired they are for the way they faced every challenge with unconditional love, knowledge, and compassion.”

Dan Peragine

“Noah was my Art student. One of my jobs was to find his passion. I found Noah to have many of them. I will never forget how he lit up when he had a big idea; he would sit up, eyes wide, and smile ear to ear. I recall his Love of Lava and how we used it to create a painting in studying abstraction. He worked hard on his self portrait which I have included here. One of the most fascinating sides of Noah was his curiosity of language. We shared a lot of imaginative phrases where he would create and write down his own made up language. I, in turn, shared my early form of writing cursive, before I knew how to spell. Noah was very amused by this. We had an enjoyable time last December when he came to visit me on campus. It will always remain a precious memory as well as my time we shared together.”

Kary Pusl

“My son Stefan and I have good memories of Noah from music class at Winston (2 years ago). I still remember Noah singing at the Coffee House night, and Noah also played an amazing drum solo for everyone. Noah had such a warm smile, and my son really missed Noah when they weren’t schoolmates anymore. From what I knew of Noah he seemed so bright, funny, and warmhearted. I will always remember Noah as a sweet student singing and performing with his friends in music class. I am heartbroken for your loss. My family will keep you and Noah in our thoughts.”

Maureen Richards

“Noah, Thank you for your infectious smile, for sharing your passions and for always making me feel special — ‘Well hello Aunt Maureen’ — followed by a story to share. When I was thinking of what to write I looked out the window in thought and there was a rainbow. I know you are at peace but we will all miss you so very much. There will be light from your spirit forever. Love, Aunt Maureen”

Traci Romo

“I first met Noah at the end of the Kenworthy’s driveway in Tucson. He was proudly selling drawings to earn a few bucks for a trip to Basha’s. At that moment I knew I crossed paths with an incredible soul. He was engaging, inquisitive and his spirit shined so brightly. We chatted for quite some time and for some reason he wanted to know my birthday. What I didn’t realize at that time was he would be my ‘Forever Birthday’ message. Our first meeting took place in 2011 and he never forgot the date, the month etc… Noah, I am so happy that my path crossed yours and I am so hopeful that you have finally found the peace you so deserve. Until we cross paths again Noah, please continue to shine your special light on the world.”

Martín Sabelli

“Noah — I will try to live up to your gentle spirit, your immense generosity, and your huge heart. I am thinking of you now and for the rest of my days. I hope you heard, in our voices and our words, how much you mean to us and how much you touched our lives. Love, Martín”

Julie Sauer

“I met Noah when he was two years old and I knew this little man was someone special with a big heart!! He had mine from the very first time we met!! Just seeing his smile, his excitement, his hop and step, his bravery, his determination would make my day. Noah fought so many obstacles (one of them not being able to talk, believe it or not) to being the kind, thoughtful young man that he grew up to be. I remember the day Noah and I went to a safari and we spent the day feeding zebras, giraffes, and other wild animals. He was so excited that he tried to tell a worker at Dave and Busters that night. It was the first time I saw him try to recall an event to someone and he was so happy. His happiness just made me even happier. He just could do that for me. Make me happy!! I will miss that!! Anything/anywhere we decided to go, Noah was willing to try even when fearful and it may have been tough. Our hikes, once getting lost and Noah was so tired but he kept walking. I am and will miss my buddy who had this wonderful innocence to him and so much brightness!! I am so grateful I was able to watch Noah for brief periods of times when he was younger and get to know what it feels like to be a parent. I cried the day he left me in Georgia and I do today!! Thank you Lane and Kim for allowing me into Noah’s life and giving me great memories!! Noah, I love you!”

Austin Scofield

“Noah always had the biggest smile. He’d give you the shirt off his back if he saw that you needed it. I remember his love of old things and how he’d ask me questions about old things sometimes when we would hang out and go to the thrift shops and spend hours just kinda chilling. Also how he never got all that competitive when we would play video games, and if you were stuck he’d help you. I also remember that movie line he was obsessed with and how he’d say it. Man I wish I could share the cool old cars that I’ve been nodding in GTA online; he would’ve loved them.”

“He wasn’t just a good friend for me; he was like my little brother. I loved him as if he was my blood, and he pops in my head from time to time. Man, I’d give anything just to take him fishing for a day or two. I wish he knew how much he was loved by people around him and just how much we miss him. But I believe that one day I’ll get to see him again and we can catch up as we fish.”

Barbara Sedgwick-Billimoria

“I had the pleasure of sitting next to Noah a couple of years ago at a Winston coffeehouse performance. I was struck by Noah’s politeness and intelligence. Then he got up to play a drum solo and sing — it was really impressive. I am deeply saddened to hear of Noah’s passing. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with Noah and the rest of the family during this extremely difficult time.”

Jill Shina

“I want you to know, he will always be your angel. Always walk with you wherever you may go. I know your hearts are ripped out right now. But he will live inside all that cared about him. He is the light that will guide you.”

Justin Torres

“Noah will forever be a part of my heart. He always joked about my age and how much older I was. He could do nearly 60 pushups a day. Our challenge was to reach 100! I enjoyed having him in my class. Noah was a wonderful individual who was kind and well liked by everyone at Springall Academy.”