D.J. Benardis

Dear Annie, Jim, and Matt,

I think of D. J. so often. At every opportunity, I speak of him to my students as an example of a true disciple of Jesus. He certainly knew his Lord and followed him. He drew people in with his infectious smile. I remember at Snows we called him the "wide-mouthed bass" because of that terrific smile.

He was well-liked by people of all ages and truly a gift to all who knew him.

I know he is celebrating at the banquet of the Lord and I know I shall see him again. What a role-model he was and I point this out to my students because most of my students go on to Manogue and have seen the memorial to him in the hallway there.

May God bless you as he is blessing D. J. Remember---those who live in the Lord NEVER see each other for the last time!!!

To Annie, Jim, Matt and family...
There isn't a day that goes by that he doesn't cross my mind. And he is the force that drives me at the panels when I speak. I can't believe fifteen years has gone by since that horrible day and there are no words to comfort you today as there were none that April of 1996. His spirit lives on in many people..myself included..and there is some consolence in that. Yet, the world is a lesser place wihtout D.J. in it. As always, my prayers are with you all and you will always be in my heart and soul. God Bless D.J. Benardis!

We always keep DJ in our prayers and will never forget the kindness of his family in offering a scholarship to my son. DJ lives on in many whose lives he touched.
Blessings
Claudia, Alex and Anastasia Chambers

Always in our hearts. Our prayers are with his family and friends. His life had a huge impact on the manogue community.

Christine Salkowski - graduate of Manogue

I love and miss you everyday - I am so amazed by the man you became during your 18 years - you still make me laugh and cry - look after us all until we meet again. You are beloved and continue to positively impact our lives.