Jake Henry McConnell

Jake was my very first friend in life. Him and I would play in his backyard. We played Pokemon when it first came out. I saw Jake the last time in 2013. I wish I had known that last time I saw him. I live my life in the arts now. I know Jake is with me every single day, I think of him often. Anytime I'm being creative, I think of what Jake offered this world as a person and artist. You're not gone, you're still here.

I still think about you, Jake McConnell. We sat beside each other, expressed our mutual interests on occasion, and then you were gone. Your favorite actor was Harry Dean Stanton. You did a great Hunter S. Thompson impression. You were the only one in class who knew Henry Darger. You had recently seen the movie Orlando. I would have liked to know more. I would have liked to speak to you about why you were suffering. I could have shared my own experience. But I was blind. Like many of us must...

So very sorry to hear the news of Jake's passing. I worked with John at Public Works until my retirement two years ago. My deepest sympathy to all of you during this heartbreaking time. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

I love you Jake McConnell.

Jake's picture was placed on a special table near the altar this evening at a Choral Evensong "In Remembrance" for All Souls' Day at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, Oregon at 5 pm PST Sunday, November 2, 2014. I held him in my heart in honor, love and respect during this beautiful musical service of Evening Prayer as my way of being with you since I cannot be there tomorrow with Rob, Katie and Marilyn. Terri, the verger swung the incense not only over the altar but over all the...

Our family will continue to keep Jake and the McConnell family our prayers. Jake will missed

Jake was a very good person. He was one of my good friends. He did have that kindness everyone talked about. He showed me it a long time ago. I was making music and he recognized my talent and talked to me about my art. We may have different art to show to the world, but our love to art connected us to it. I will never forget it. I admired, respected, and loved Jake very much. I enjoyed listening to his hobbies, conversations, and interest. I always looked forward to our conversations. I...

Though I did know Jake for very long he was a talented, creative and thoughtful person who seemed interested in everything and everyone around him. He will be missed.

Jake was a very nice kid. As well as I might have known him very well. He was very kind and had a great since of humor.