Santa Barbara, California
Mari-Rae Sopper wasn't scared of tall odds.
As a student at Palatine's Fremd High School in the 1980s, she led the girls gymnastics team from doormat to perennial state power. She planned a similar turnaround at the University of California, Santa Barbara, chucking a Washington law career to take the head coaching job even though the program was slated for elimination.
Sopper, 35, was on her way to the school when her plane crashed into the Pentagon.
I received Mari-Rae's name as part of a Victim Remembrance for 9/11 at work. Today I take these moments to honor and celebrate her life. I pray that the God of all comfort blesses her loved ones with the peace of His presence.
Jill Lowell
September 11, 2023 | Fountain Hills, AZ
Today is 9-11, 2020. Today came across a bracelet with Mari-Rae Sopper name & AA#77. So strange came across it on the anniversary of her death at a estate sale. God bless to all. Mari-Rae sounded like a very special person.
Margaret Dean
September 11, 2020 | Albuquerque, NM
I am terribly sorry you died aboard Flight 77. I can imagine your loved ones missing you every day. RIP Mari-Rae.
A.L.
June 18, 2019 | ON
My brother Steve raised his family in the house you grew up in out in Inverness. I often feel your presence thinking this is where you watched TV, had dinner and slept. Also played in the big yard front and back. and Enjoyed the same swimming pool I enjoyed with my nephews all these years. RIP
Cheryl Larson
Cheryl Larson
December 31, 2018 | Wheaton, IL
Today, 09/11/2017, we remember you Mari-Rae. We will never forget you. To Mari-Rae's family members .. Share Mari-Rae's spirit thru your everyday life. With much regards.
Tom H
September 11, 2017 | San Jose, CA
I noticed from one of the comments that your birthday was June 19th, which is my wedding anniversary. I loved how you followed your passion, and it inspires me to do the same. My daughter has chosen to leave a high-paying job to follow her love and sometimes takes some ridicule for her decision. I pause today to honor your memory and to pray for a special blessing on your friends and family. We will never forget. Love from Texas
Newberry
November 17, 2015 | Garland, TX
I went to the 9/11 Remembrance in Santa Barbara, ~3,000 US flags on the beach sponsored by the Young America's Founation. I moved to Santa Barbara in 2001.
I found out that day that Mari-Rae was the only official Santa Barbara casualty. At the end of the remembrance, I helped take the flags down.
It was a pretty site for all the tourists and residents and visitors to see all the flags waving in the wind.
David K.
September 20, 2010 | Santa Barbara, CA
On this anniversary I was given a card with Mari Rae's name on it as a remembrance of lives lost on 9/11. My thoughts and prayers have been with her family and friends all day.
marilyn
September 11, 2010 | Gambrills, MD
To the family of Mari-Rae Sopper:
Mari-Rae gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. My deepest sympathy to you. We must never forget!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Peggy Childers
September 08, 2009 | Carson City