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Samuel Hopper Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Hopper
January 6, 2015
January 6, 2015
January 6, 2015
January 6, 2015
Cousins
January 6, 2015
January 6, 2015
Rachel Patterson
December 29, 2014
Samuel was one of the best patients I ever had here at North Raleigh Pediatrics! I miss his cute expressions, smiling face and sense of humor. Jennifer, Rob and Sophia you guys are in my thoughts and prayers constantly, I extend my deepest sympathy to you and hope God leads you through this time of sorrow and need. Sammie I know you are watching down on me and know that Mrs.Rachel will never forget you! May you rest in peace.
-Rachel Patterson
Emma Meacham SAMs cousin
December 27, 2014
My cousin I miss you so much you were like a little brother to me. You were my best friend. I really will miss playing with you at the beach and I really wanted you to ride the fairis wheel with me and Sophia at tweeties.I really wanted to have fun with you up in the mountains and at tweeties there were some really amazing things there .I miss you so much.I will miss wrestling with my dad and your dad with you. I love you and miss you Sammy.
The Redner Family
December 19, 2014
Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow. We cannot comprehend just how devastated you must be feeling for the loss of Sammy. You have our full support and please remember that you are not alone. Do not hesitate to call us if you need anything. We are always there for you. We love you and are thinking about you often these days.
We certainly miss Sammy a great deal. He was such a happy boy and loved his family so very much! We miss him, and are glad we got to spend time with him on the trails and in the tent in your living room. He is in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts go out to you, in this difficult time.
Love, Amy and RJ
Climbing trees, eating leaves...
Sophia Hopper
November 12, 2014
Early fall 2013. Sitting in the tree platform Sophia, Dad and Sam built
Sophia Hopper
November 12, 2014
The Hudson's
November 12, 2014
Dear Rob, Jenn and Sophia,
We extend our deepest sympathy to you all. Sam remains forever in our hearts and we cherish our memories of him. Much love to all.
Sophia Hopper
November 11, 2014
My brother how I miss you so dearly. The day you were born was really the happiest day of my life! Just you were so cheerful and happy and such a smiley guy which always brightened up my day.We have so many wonderful, wonderful memories: climbing trees,at the beach,taking naps,fighting dad,hearing you in choir,all those things you said to me,birthday parties,helping me out,writing your name,racing at swim team,hiking at the park,getting in the stream,being at Disney,and sleeping together, taking showers together,building forts, playing games,and playing destinations secret agents and pool fun and foozball. There are so many memories, I just can't type them all. Sammy even our arguments are memorable! I just so wish you were still here. You will always be my best x098776778786655677 friend ,brother,cheerer upper, and favorite little guy. Sam you have so many accomplishments in your life that nobody else can do.You would say I miss my mister! You will always be my super hero, H- man. I will keep all your things safe. Ashwaria and Ms. Brisson will always be your best /girl friend and kindergarten teacher. Oh how I will miss my butty through everything I do even if I become famous. I love you and miss you my butty Sam. You are always my little brother!
Love, Phia (Sophia)
H-man! Sam created his own Super Hero identity for himself.
Sophia Hopper
November 11, 2014
Mike Polizzi
November 10, 2014
Dear Rob and Jen,
There are no words that can describe what you are going through now. As a parent, I can only feel the outer edge of shock and pain since the news arrived. And while the words I have to offer may amount to nothing more than a greater silence, a silence built upon an incapacity to reach that point beyond a pain too great, my hope is that you can find some solace to contemplate the perfection of Sammy's love and that the love of those around you can lead you from this horror back into life. I am sad to say that I did not know Sammy as well as I should have, but I knew him through Nicole and through you. It is terrible to know that something as bad as this can happen to people as good as you. My thoughts are with you and if I can be any help, please do not hesitate to call.
Love,
Mike Polizzi
Oct. 4th
The Compassionate Friends of Wake County
November 8, 2014
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hopper,
It is with a heavy heart that we send this message to you. Sadly, we have learned about the passing of your beloved son Samuel. There are simply no words that can adequately express what it is to suffer the loss of a precious child. We are bereaved parents who have suffered this devastating loss. We want to reach out to you in behalf of our group The Compassionate Friends of Wake County: a non-profit and non-denominational support group that consists solely of parents who have lost a child. We are part of the worldwide organization The Compassionate Friends which can be accessed at www.compassionatefriends.org. Our website is on the latter which you can get to by clicking on Chapter Locator and then going to NC. Our group meets twice a month in Raleigh. If you have any questions, please call our message line 919-833-4022. There is always a bereaved parent on call who should get back to you in one to three days. We are so sorry for your loss and please know that you and your precious child are in our thoughts and prayers.
With caring and concern,
The Compassionate Friends of Wake County
Bob and Joan Hopper
November 6, 2014
messages of love from our family and friends ~
Words cannot ease the pain we know you're feeling.
Our love to you, Rob, Jenn and Sophia
George and Vickie Schmidt
Aiken, SC
We are holding you, Rob and Jenn in our thoughts and prayers.
Doreen and Danny Janelli
West Milford, NJ
Our heartfelt condolences that words cannot describe how sorry we feel for your horrendous loss. With Love.
Barbara and Lou Prospero
West Milford, NJ
Our thoughts are with you. Fond memories of your grandson will always remain in your heart.
Lawton and Kathy Struble
West Milford, NJ
Heartfelt sympathy and prayers
Cindy (Vandeveveire), Bill, Mychala & Billy Gosda
West Milford, NJ
Praying the Lord will comfort you with His Peace and Love.
God Bless You All
Joe Ragonese
West Milford, NJ
I wish you all the best and hope you can get through this horrible time. Please let your son and his family know that they are in my thoughts and prayers. Please remember that young Samuel has brightened the souls of so many. Love
Janet Leininger
Manahawkin, NJ
My prayers and sentiments are with all of you. May "His Presence" lighten your burden during this difficult time. God's Peace.
Adele Durr
West Milford, NJ
I wish I knew what to say - some comforting thoughts, but I am speechless. My heart aches for you and your family. May God be with you all. With Love.
Ginny and Fred Raue
West Milford, NJ
There really are no words. Just know you have people who care and are praying for you and your family. Wishing you comfort and peace.
Linda Smith
Warwick, NY
Where do we begin? Our hearts and prayers are with you and Robbie and his family. With our heavy, sad hearts we wish you Love.
Debbie, Rich, Karissa Mathiesen
Rochester, VT
Sophia Hopper SAMs sister
November 6, 2014
My brother how I miss you so dearly the day you were born was really the happiest day of my life.just you were so cheerful and happy and such a smiley guy which. always brightened up my day.We have so many wonderful wonderful memories climbing trees,at the beach,taking naps,fighting dad,hearing you in choir,all those things you said to me,birthday parties,helping me out,writing your name,racing at swim team,hiking at the park,getting in the stream,being at Disney,and sleeping together, taking showers together,building forts, playing games,and playing destinations secret agents.There are so many memories I just can't type them all.Sammy even out arguments are memorable!.I just so wish you were still here.You will always be my best x098776778786655677 friend ,brother,cheerier upper,favorite little guy. Sam you have so many accomplishments in your life that nobody else can do.You would say I miss my sister!. You will always be my super hero ,H man.I will keep all your things safe. Ashwaria and Ms. Brisson will always be your kindergarten teacher and best /girl friend.Oh how I will miss my butty through everything I do even if I become famous.I love you and miss you my butty Sam you are always my little brother!
Love, Phia (Sophia)
Melissa Meacham
November 6, 2014
Jen, Rob and Sophia- Words cannot express how hard it was for me to write this passage and yet I did so with tears streaming and a smile on my face as I remembered so many wonderful stories of our sweet Sammy! Each day as I drive my van I think of him and his love for riding in Aunt Missy's van. He truly believed that the van was cool and always begged to ride with me even if it meant we all had to rearrange car seats. I can remember one time just driving him through the neighborhood when he visited as he had not had the chance to ride yet and you all were leaving.
In my office I smile at the pictures of him that hang on my photo board holding all his cousins or of Emma holding him. Sam truly loved his cousins. He looked up to his “kindred spirit” Emma and he protected his ”Piper”. I smile as I remember Piper chasing him all over this summer at the beach and Sammy just laughing as she chased him. I remember the excitement he had that he was going to come to our house and sleep in Emma's bunk beds the very day they were set up. He sat in her room asking the delivery guys a thousand questions until the beds were finally together and the kids could climb to the top! I smile as I look at the picture of Sammy old enough to hold his baby Olivia and how much love he had for her. He had such a wonderful heart for his family and at such a young age knew the importance of family.
Of course, I remember all of our official and unofficial holiday gatherings and how they will never be the same without his smiling face. Yet, I know he will be smiling down on us from heaven. I can't think of ECU games without thinking of the homecoming games and parades we ventured to all together. Sweet Sammy loved the Pirates despite his few weeks of being a State fan. I think of Christmas and how he could get me to get him anything most recently the Recycling Truck. I think of his birthdays and the cake orders he requested such as his super hero cake. He knew when he flashed that smile he would get what he wanted. I think of Easter and wrestling with the kids and Uncle James.
There are just so many memories we have of our Sammy from his rapid delivery to the last conversation we had that morning. We talk about him daily because we miss him and we smile at all the funny and sweet memories we have of Sam. He is truly our special angel now.
TV with the boys! Popsicles and Football, its that simple
November 6, 2014
Playing in the leaves
November 6, 2014
It's a Boy Thing
November 6, 2014
splish splash with Sammy, Davey, and Sophia
November 6, 2014
super hero fun with Sam and Dave
November 6, 2014
At the beach with the mermaid cousins
November 6, 2014
Slip and slide fun
November 6, 2014
Rock Star
November 6, 2014
sweet snuggles
November 6, 2014
Getting ready for some football!!
November 6, 2014
Family shot
November 6, 2014
pop and his little pirate
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
Super heros unite
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
getting ready for a bike ride
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
TACKEL!!!!
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
watching some sword fighting at Pirate Fest
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
Davey and Sammy Swinging at the park
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
Pop Pop and Sammy the pirate
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
Squish Squishy, love those cheeks!
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
football with pop pop
Catherine and David Colardo
November 6, 2014
on the day you were born
Catherine Colardo
November 6, 2014
Oh my sweet Sammy, I still remember the phone call telling me of your arrival into this world. I rushed to the hospital and snuggled you close! Since that day you have touched so many people in so many ways with your contagious smile, bright eyes, sweet soul, caring touch, and genuine concern and care for all those around you! I have so many wonderful memories of you, from playing at the park, hiking through the woods, swimming and going down the BIG water slide, playing at the beach, or simply playing at home with your toys, and your sweet hugs can bring sunshine into the most cloud of days! I can't imagine life without you in it, but through faith I know we will be together again! Your cousin David misses you oh so much, and you will forever be his best friend and super hero! Not a day goes by that he doesn't ask when he gets to go to heaven to be with you! Thank you for all that you taught us while you were here, you will live on forever in our memories! I love you so much! XOXO Aunt Cat and David
November 5, 2014
Pop pop and grandmama can think of a trillion zillion moments that made our Samuel such a special light in our lives. From the very first time we held him he could bring us joy with his twinkling smile and the truths he spoke that made us laugh or question how someone so young could be so wise." Grandmama you look great but you need to lose just a little weight right here." Pop pop you know a lot about a lot of stuff." Pop God loves everyone, even the bad guys. We miss ours sweet, smart, boy and will look forward to a joyful future in heaven when we sing and dance again together.
The first year we went camping and your Daddy forgot one of the tents for your family so your mom slept in with me and we got to catch up.
Kristen Oakley
November 5, 2014
Sammy Halloween 2010
Kristen Oakley
November 5, 2014
Eskimo kisses with Sammy
Kristen Oakley
November 5, 2014
Sammy,
Of all the memories I have with you my 4 favorite are camping, hearing you, your Mom, and Sophia sing/yell "Hi Aunt Kristen, Hi Aunt Darby" every day that you passed by my house, spending time petting Leo when I camped out in the basement just before I moved to Colorado, and lastly when I got you to sit still long enough to give me eskimo kisses in your batman outfit with silk gloves on (I feel lucky to have photo documentation). I hope you are having the grandest of times in heaven and we can't wait to see you again. I love you so much and I'll be talking to you bunches (you'll probably get really tired of that)! XOXOXO
Let's all get Aunt Darby during Piper's birthday celebration.
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Who needs the beach when you can play in the pool on the beach with your cousins!
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Silly cousins at our Beach Trip 2014.
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Always challenging Aunt Missy with his cake request!
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
The cheeks say it all!
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Commander Sam checking in on Emma and David.
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Pirate Sammy!
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Sammy and Aunt Missy enjoying the beach.
James Meacham
November 5, 2014
Always a ladies man! The only boy at Emma's party and the smile says it all.
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Wrestling with Uncle James. A favorite pastime!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
So excited that he was big enough to hold Olivia by himself!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Emma and Sammy summer 2014. Such kindred spirits!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Taking care of Piper!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
ECU Homecoming!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Fun times at the beach attacking Emma.
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Silly faces by the pool!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Aunt Missy, Sammy and Piper hanging out.
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Always playing music for us!
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Melissa Meacham
November 5, 2014
Jen, Rob and Sophia- Words cannot express how hard it was for me to write this passage and yet I did so with tears streaming and a smile on my face as I remembered so many wonderful stories of our sweet Sammy! Each day as I drive my van I think of him and his love for riding in Aunt Missy's van. He truly believed that the van was cool and always begged to ride with me even if it meant we all had to rearrange car seats. I can remember one time just driving him through the neighborhood when he visited as he had not had the chance to ride yet and you all were leaving.
In my office I smile at the pictures of him that hang on my photo board holding all his cousins or of Emma holding him. Sam truly loved his cousins. He looked up to his “kindred spirit” Emma and he protected his ”Piper”. I smile as I remember Piper chasing him all over this summer at the beach and Sammy just laughing as she chased him. I remember the excitement he had that he was going to come to our house and sleep in Emma's bunk beds the very day they were set up. He sat in her room asking the delivery guys a thousand questions until the beds were finally together and the kids could climb to the top! I smile as I look at the picture of Sammy old enough to hold his baby Olivia and how much love he had for her. He had such a wonderful heart for his family and at such a young age knew the importance of family.
Of course, I remember all of our official and unofficial holiday gatherings and how they will never be the same without his smiling face. Yet, I know he will be smiling down on us from heaven. I can't think of ECU games without thinking of the homecoming games and parades we ventured to all together. Sweet Sammy loved the Pirates despite his few weeks of being a State fan. I think of Christmas and how he could get me to get him anything most recently the Recycling Truck. I think of his birthdays and the cake orders he requested such as his super hero cake. He knew when he flashed that smile he would get what he wanted. I think of Easter and wrestling with the kids and Uncle James.
There are just so many memories we have of our Sammy from his rapid delivery to the last conversation we had that morning. We talk about him daily because we miss him and we smile at all the funny and sweet memories we have of Sam. He is truly our special angel now.
Love- Aunt Missy, Uncle James, Emma, Piper and Olivia
Coley
November 5, 2014
Sammy,
I remember when we met!! You were in your Momma's tummy and she had to tell the nurse I was her sister so I could stay for the ultra sound. From right then, I fell in love. You brought so much joy and laughter into all our lives. Like when you'd ask if I brought you a present....I couldn't resist buying you and Sophia presents!!! I love you, pal! I'm so blessed to have known you for six wonderful years. You are always in my heart and I will miss you every day.
Darby Oakley
November 5, 2014
Sammy, my sweet super hero, I know that you are in heaven smiling down on all of us. We miss you every second of every day. I am so grateful that I got to spend an entire summer playing and laughing with you and Sophia. I will think of your bright cheerful face and contagious laugh every day! I love you to the moon and back!
Rashmi Ravi
November 5, 2014
Jennifer..
you and your family are always in our thoughts and prayers.. I think sam was the only kid who just like that clicked with my daughter.. I do remember a couple of things from their soccer.. this was before your Disney trip.. sam came with his dad that day for practice.. aishwarya got so excited to see him at the ground & the coach gave them a drill.. if a kid loses his/her ball out of the field, they shld put the ball top of their head & wait for the one with the ball still inside the field to kick under their legs to save them.. its called swamp monsters.. sam & aishwarya kept on palying with each other.. saving each other .. they did it almost all the time.. just the two of them saving themselves from the swamp monsters.. it was so much fun to watch & really wished I had a camera.. also they both put their hands on each others shoulders & stayed close to each other for a couple of times which was extremely cute to watch.. I cannot forget the hug he
gave her after the practice...
Aishwarya also shared a couple of things that happened in the bus & at the school palygorund.. they both played the tickle game with each other at the bus .. taking turns.. also looks like he kept on whispering something in her ears that made her laugh..
At the school playground, they both played Ninja.. & spyers.. looking for stuff in the ground & they did find panther paws..
The day when he checked out early to go to Disney, she came home a little sad... & told me that sam is going to Disneyworld.. & he wont be back the same day.. he will be back only after a few days.. she cried & said she'll miss him... I don't think we can ever forget him .. my son adhvaith got really upset & cried a lot thinking about him.. wanting him to come to our place for a playdate..
We all will always think about him.. & cannot forget him ever.. we all will pray for your family ... please keep in touch with us as a family & let us know what we can do so you can find peace..
Rashmi Ravi
November 5, 2014
I wanted to let you know how sorry we all are for your loss.it came as a great shock to me.. My daughter Aishwarya always talked about him ... she says he is her best friend.. I didn't know until sat afternoon ... please know that you all are always in our thoughts.. we will be thinking about you & your family.. please let me know if you need anything at all..
Rashmi ( Aishwaryas mom)
Katelyn Brisson
November 5, 2014
I wanted to reach out. My heart is breaking with you. Please know that I am here for you and your family.
I think of him and miss him every day. The kids often come up and give me a hug and say Im missing Sam. He was such a great friend to all of them! :)
Ms. Brisson
Sam's kindergarten teacher
Jennifer Tutino
November 5, 2014
Dear Jenn, Rob, and Sophia,
Not a day, not really even an hour goes by that I don't think of sweet Sam. My heart aches over his loss, but my mind is filled with beautiful memories of his big smile and cheerful disposition. You couldn't help but be in a good mood when Sam was around. He was such a good friend, and boy, you just knew that his heart overflowed with love for his big Sis. Their bond was, and is, unbreakable. He will always watch over you, Jenn, Rob, and Sophia. He is but a whisper… a dream… a memory away.
We surround you with love, prayers, and comforting thoughts. We will ALWAYS be here for you.
With love,
Jen, Chris, Caroline, Juliet, and Christian Tutino
Amy Marshburn
November 5, 2014
My husband and I are absolutely heartbroken over the news of Sam. I wish I could say something to ease the pain. Please find comfort in the fact that we are praying for all of you.
We will not be able to attend the service as we will be out of town. You will be in our thoughts.
I have a precious video of Sophia and Sam from his birthday party where she is helping him up from a fall. It was a beautiful moment. I will be more than happy to share it with you if you like.
Please take care of yourself. There will be brighter days.
Meghan Amitrano
November 5, 2014
Our hearts, tears, love, outpouring of sorrow and peace.... are sent to you, Rob and Sophia.
You have all been on our minds constantly since we heard the news of Sam, and will be for a very long time to come.
I just wanted you to know how much Joseph loved Sam. He considered Sam "his best friend". I am so glad the boys had such a fun year together and that he got to be friends with Sam, who was such a extraordinary, wonderful, exuberant, fun, and creative kid.
Joseph now loves roller blading, thanks to Sam! I told Joseph about Sam dying and he has had lots of questions. One of the main ones, is if he is okay and not hurting. I assured him God has got him and he is playing. Of course he wants to visit Sam, and I told him God will decide that one day. He still wants a Play Date he says..... and one day in heaven that will happen. My daughter, Emma Brooks, had many questions too, and her heart goes out to Sophia.
I have sent these two pictures of the boys, and just love both of these! The one with the three boys, Ms. Margaux took and you probably have... but Sam's expression is priceless.
Wanted to let you know how much I think of all of you, and if you ever need anything (anytime!!) I truly would like to help or be there for your family. I am not very good with words, and just wanted you to know though that I am praying for all of you.
With a Huge HUG!
Coach Marie
November 5, 2014
Sam I will miss you. All my love to your family. Hang in there Sophia, Jennifer and Rob ...if you need anything please ask. Coach Marie
H.J. Brathwaite
November 5, 2014
Dear Rob, Jenn and Sophia,
Our whole family is devastated to hear about the loss of Sam. We will forever miss the big smile and the warm friendship he offered to our son, Henry. Sam had a kind heart and the type of character we all hope for and aspire to develop in our children. Ashley and I are so thankful that Henry was able to have him as a friend. He will be deeply missed by our family.
While there are many things we will remember about Sam, one of my favorites is the story of the nickname Henry had for Sam. At some point early on in their time together at Highland, Henry decided to exclusively refer to his best friend Sam as "Sam-Bee" when regaling his mom and dad with stories of their playground hijinks. He would say it with a flourish and an emphasis on the "Bee" like it was the coolest nickname anyone had ever come up with. He was so proud of his friendship with Sam and the nickname that commemorated it. Even after he left Highland, he'd shout "Sam-Bee!" gleefully after spotting Sam on his way to pick up his sister - he was always so excited to see him. See, Henry has this love of nicknames - his sister Lena was dubbed "Doots" the day after she was born, and his mom and I had equally odd nicknames bestowed on us. They don't make much sense and we have no idea where they come from, but he cherishes having those special names for the people around him and the small personal bonds that comes with them. But the reason I'll remember this about Sam is because he was the only friend, and the only person outside of Henry's mom, dad and sister that Henry ever gave a nickname to. I think that's probably for the same reason that so many other kids call Sam their best friend. He was a very special boy who meant so much to his many best friends, and to one best friend in particular.
H.J. Brathwaite
Sam, Mackenzie and Arrington 2013
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Manchester Marlins 2014
Jennifer Hopper
November 4, 2014
Christmas Program 2013
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Corn 2
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Corn
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Pre- K 2013-14
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Pop, Sam and Joseph!
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Chalking!
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Best Friends
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Pumpkin Patch
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Field Trip
Highland Childrens
November 4, 2014
Lions Pre- K class
Joanna Odere
November 4, 2014
Pre- K at HCC
Riley's Mom
November 4, 2014
Kenneth Blue
November 4, 2014
Dear MSRC friends,
This message comes with deep sadness and a heavy heart.
Sam Hopper was one of our youngest members at 6 years old. He was full of energy, always asking for someone to play. His huge smile brought happiness and joy into a room. His amazing imagination took the most boring day on the biggest adventure as a knight, an explorer, or a superhero. Sam did everything at full speed and determination. This past swim season he had the most personal best among the 6 and Unders and was awarded the Most Improved in his age group.
Yesterday afternoon Samuel Colardo Hopper passed away. He will always be in our hearts.
We will pass on more details when they become available. In the meantime, please keep Rob, Jennifer, and Sophia in your thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Blue
MSRC President
Jaimie Francis
November 4, 2014
Jenn, Rob & Sophia,
I am so very sorry to hear that you lost your sweet Sam. I can't begin to imagine suffering such a loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I had some pictures of Sam (and Sophia) from Thomas' birthday party. I put them in an album for you. Here is the link. I hope this helps in some small way. There were a couple where he was making some great silly faces.
H.J. Brathwaite
November 4, 2014
Dear Rob, Jenn and Sophia,
Our whole family is devastated to hear about the loss of Sam. We will forever miss the big smile and the warm friendship he offered to our son, Henry. Sam had a kind heart and the type of character we all hope for and aspire to develop in our children. Ashley and I are so thankful that Henry was able to have him as a friend. He will be deeply missed by our family.
While there are many things we will remember about Sam, one of my favorites is the story of the nickname Henry had for Sam. At some point early on in their time together at Highland, Henry decided to exclusively refer to his best friend Sam as "Sam-Bee" when regaling his mom and dad with stories of their playground hijinks. He would say it with a flourish and an emphasis on the "Bee" like it was the coolest nickname anyone had ever come up with. He was so proud of his friendship with Sam and the nickname that commemorated it. Even after he left Highland, he'd shout "Sam-Bee!" gleefully after spotting Sam on his way to pick up his sister - he was always so excited to see him. See, Henry has this love of nicknames - his sister Lena was dubbed "Doots" the day after she was born, and his mom and I had equally odd nicknames bestowed on us. They don't make much sense and we have no idea where they come from, but he cherishes having those special names for the people around him and the small personal bonds that comes with them. But the reason I'll remember this about Sam is because he was the only friend, and the only person outside of Henry's mom, dad and sister that Henry ever gave a nickname to. I think that's probably for the same reason that so many other kids call Sam their best friend. He was a very special boy who meant so much to his many best friends, and to one best friend in particular.
H.J. Brathwaite
Dana Harvey
November 4, 2014
This is one of my favorites of any videos I have as it truly captures that silly boy behavior. I hope you will treasure it, Rob & Jen
Deirdre Denechaud
November 4, 2014
Our prayers are with you and yours.
Nancy Franks
November 4, 2014
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Hopper,
(from Nate Franks- friend from pool and neighborhood)
I had lots of fun with Sam at the pool. I had lots of fun playing Marco Polo. I had lots of fun at Sam's birthday party and roller skating. I am very, very sad that you are missing Sam. I am missing Sam too. I've been praying for you.
Love,
Nate
(7 yrs old, loved Sam at swim team and from neighborhood)
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Dear Jen, Rob, and Sophia,
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss of sweet Sam. He was such a beautiful, bright, “full of life”, little boy that we loved to watch play in the pool this past summer. Nate LOVED to play with him. Nate told me that Sam had said to him one day that he wanted to have a playdate with him. That was so cute. Please know that I have been praying fervently for you all. May the God of peace bring you comfort and hope in Christ. My love to you and your family.
In Christ always,
Nancy Franks (from pool and neighborhood)
Trina Bruner
November 4, 2014
This morning, I left early and my husband put the kids on the bus. When I got home today, I was greeted by some sweet artwork in my driveway. Landon had written Sam's name in chalk, several times, and drawn huge smiley-faced stick figures all along the walkway. I assumed they were drawings of my Landon and your Sam.
At bedtime, I asked him about the pictures, and he said that these were pictures he wanted to take. (I am guessing he means photos.) He teared up and said that he'd wanted to have a play date with Sam at Adventure Landing - and invite his buddy Liam, too. "But now I can't, " he sad, softly.
A few quiet moments passed, and he said, "Well, I can at least take Liam there some day, and we can think about Sam together. I will always think about Sam there, and on the playground."
This likely seems like such a tiny story in the wonderful adventures of your boisterous fellow. But what strikes me is how little Landon knew of Sam - the kindergarten play date, and a few chances to play alongside each other at recess were all they had. Yet what a huge impression he made on my boy! I wonder, did they chat about Adventure Landing (Wyatt loves this place and took a friend there recently, so maybe Landon would have mentioned it.) I wish I could have been a fly on the wall to see what Landon saw. I wish even more that I could have done something to stop him from leaving us all so soon.
Please know that our family is grieving with you and praying for you. And also know that whatever magical power Sam seemed to have over my little guy is not wearing off - he will go on in Landon's memory as a "kind and happy friend."
With love and prayers,
The Bruner Family
Joanna Dunn
November 4, 2014
Dear Hopper family,
We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. We remember Sam well as one of our daughter's classmates at Highlands. They actually became quite close last year when they transitioned from the Frogs to the Lions class. Riley would come home telling us stories about the silly games they played or the funny things that Sam would say.
I was going through some old photos and came across a few from Highlands that I thought I'd share. One in particular makes me smile. It is one from Riley's class birthday party last October. I had brought silly glasses and party hats for the mini-celebration. The pre-K class was still getting to know each other so when I walked in the room, everyone was quiet. I passed out the party favors in hopes of making the birthday party a little more festive when I hear all this giggling behind me. I turn around and sweet Sam was the first one to put on the funny glasses which was making all the kids laugh. I took a quick photo of him and before you know it, all the kids had theirs on too and they are begging me to take their photo. The vibe in the room quickly changed from quiet to fun. Riley had a huge smile on her face too. So when I think of Sam, I think of his very sweet contagious smile.
Please accept our sincerest condolences and know that you all remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Warmest regards,
Joanna Dunn
Gretchen Shaffer
November 4, 2014
As I lie awake not able to go to sleep, I am thinking of the Hopper family and having sweet smiles of Sam float in my head. Almost every night I have tried to think of a unique moment I had of Sam to share with the family. It just hit me like a ton of bricks at 11:45pm. I remember going in Sam's class one morning when I arrived to say hi to everyone. Ms. Margaux needed to step out of her room for a moment so I covered her class while she was gone. I vividly remember Sam so excited standing at the writing table writing his S. I remember him having trouble with his writing and he had finally gotten that "S" down pat. He did it over and over again to show me. He was so so proud! There was never a day that I would come to highland where sam didn't smile at me. We shared being ECU Pirate fans together and we got excited everytime one of us would wear a pirate shirt. On sports attire day he would come running up to me and tap me on my arm to show me he had his ECU gear on and then together we would say..GOOOO Pirates..argggghhhh. I miss him. He was so special and so darn full of life. I am so blessed to have had him in our preschool. I will always be reminded of him everyday when i go to my office and see the willow tree he picked out for me with Jenn's sweet note on his last day of Preschool. Sam will always have a special place in my heart.
Love,
Gretchen Shaffer
Rohit Gundecha
October 26, 2014
I am so sorry for your family's loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will remember Sam as a great friend, team mate and baseball player.
Regina Jones
October 25, 2014
I am so sorry for your lost .Praying God will keep you at this time of need.
Bob and Joan Hopper
October 24, 2014
How can Sam the Man, Buddy, Sammy, Son, Brother, Grandson, Cousin, Nephew, Friend, Superhero be gone? A memory we will treasure ... While playing a game, with his big smile, Sam said, "God lets me win some and you win some".
Our hearts are broken as yours are. Let your Love guide you.
With All Our Love, Grammy and Grampy
Stuart Chambers
October 24, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. I'll never forget the joy in his face when we sang him happy birthday. He was the best teammate we had and was an excellent player with a huge smile. He was loved and was truly happy. Royals baseball coach Stuart Chambers and family
October 20, 2014
Dear Jennifer, Rob, Sophia and family - Please know there are prayers being said for all of you. May God bring peace to your broken hearts.
Fred & Ginny Raue, West Milford, NJ
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