Harrison Stout

May 20th 1992 - Nov 6th 2004

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Jessica W
July 13^th 2010

I thought about you today... I'm not really sure why, but something just came over me, and I was remembering you, your smile, your spirit.

Harry, We graduated this year. We're all out of high school, and we're all missing you. We had ribbons for you, spoke of you in speaches, and kept you in our hearts throughout everything. Only thing is, I wish you could have been standing there with is... We really miss you, we do. I know you know it, but I feel it's something that needs to be restated.

I remember having class with you, writing poems with you, and I remember it vividly. I remember the day I got the news, I remember the next day at school, and I remember walking you through the halls for the last time. And now there's another memory to add to the list... Your father spoke to us, Harry. He wore the jersey, (you know the one), and he spoke with such love in his eyes. For you, and for us. And I'll never forget the smile on his face when he gave us those brown sugar poptarts.

I wish you were still here, but you taught us a lot, Harry. Cherish life, love your neighbor, never give up, all that jazz. And, of course, to smile.

Like Amanda, I wasn't your best friend. We didn't hang out everyday or call each other just to talk. But we did talk, and laugh, and enjoy things together. And I knew you enough to know how great you were...

Your influence on the Class of 2010 was incredible, and not a day goes by that we don't think of you, remember you, miss you, and love you.

Who would you have been, Harry? After highschool, what did you plan to do? I'm not sure anyone knows. But I know you would have accomplished great things, dear. Bigger than we can even imagine. But that's just who you were. Determined. Never gave up. Never backed down.

Harry, I can't say that if you were here today that I'd know exactly what I'd say to you. We don't have any inside jokes, any hilarious comments that we'd shoot off when we'd see each other out and about. But I'd know who you were, and you'd know just as much about me. And, despite having very little connection, I'd know that I'd never be ignored. I know you'd flash that winning smile, and wave. And I'd know I was accepted. You we're funny that way. You never bought into all that clique stuff. Everyone knew Harry, and Harry knew everyone.

Ohh boy, now I'm babbling.

I just wanted to say you are missed, you are loved.

And I can't wait to see you again one day.

Love,

Jessi

Amanda Russon
May 22^nd 2010

Harry Fest was another success! It was wonderful to see everybody enjoying themselves and gathering together to celebrate your life and the time you had with us. I understand where your dad is coming from when he says that the pain has lessened each year, as time goes by you slowly begin to accept the works of God, even if you don't want to. I have finally come to realize that I don't have to have a heavy heart, coming to accept things is part of the [long] healing process. Although the pain lessens, you will Always be missed and loved.

Graduation time has come around and life and times are changing and I just wish that you were here to experience everything with us!

As I was driving up the driveway of bittersweet on my way to Harry Fest, there are pictures of you lining the pathway and I ask myself, I wonder what he would be like today. We have all changed so much since the last time we were together and I just makes me wonder how you would have grown as a person. I know that you would still be trying to make everyone laugh and you would never stop smiling but if makes me wonder how your hobbies and intersest would have changed. Who you'd be and what you had planned for your future.

I miss you Harry. Many people do. I believe that God took you because he wanted to show us not to take life for granted, to enjoy every moment in your life and enjoy everyone around you.

Harry Fest is the highlight of my year. I love being around such great people and honoring and celebrating your life. Being part of helping set up, to volunteering through out the day, it truely brings me joy.

Its been awhile since I wrote on you page last but sometimes it hard to go to your memorial page because I just want you to still be with us. I miss you and think about you everyday. No, we weren't best friends and we didnt hang out really but talking with you and being around in school made such an impression on my life. You have to be a pretty outstanding person to make a huge impression on someone when mostly all you did was joke around with them; and that's what you were, an outstanding person.

One year at Harry Fest a woman approached me and asked me who was Harry? Why do you have Harry Fest? and the first thing I told her was Harry was very caring, loving, generous and funny young man, who unfortunatly was taken away from us by God at a very young age.I told her that we have Harry Fest to remember you and celebrate you; that this is something that you would want. You would want us to be happy and not down and depressed.

It was a true honor to have known you Harry and it is a true honor to be able to help with Harry Fest and to be there with your family. I know that one day we will meet again and the joyous memories will again continue.

Love you and Miss you Harry

[always&forever]

-Amanda

Dad
November 5^th 2009

Hello Chumley! It is beyond me that it has been five years since I last saw you. So much has happend, so many things have changed, and the pain in my heart has lessened each year. I am slowly coming to understand the nature of it all, and the "why" has shifted from sorrow to possibilities. You continue to influence and inpsire and the things we spoke of so many times are clearer than ever. You are the man Harry and I am so thankful to have had the time with you, the laughs, the wonder, the love. It is all deeply rooted in my soul and will never leave. Behave:-) All the love you can imagine, Dad.

Amanda Russon
May 20^th 2009

Happy 17th Birthday Harry!!!!

Wish I could have seen your big ol smile today as you celebrated you birthday and told you happy birthday in the hallway. I still feel like it is a nightmare unstead of reality, and it upsets me to know I wont wake up from this. I miss you Harry!!! Wish I could have seen you celebrate this day.

You are loved and never forgotten.

Happy Birthday!

Dad
May 20^th 2009

Happy 17th Birthday Harry! Hard not to think about what you would be like right now....big, smiling, driving and breaking hearts. I know you're having fun and I can hear you laughing....and that makes me laugh too! Love you chumley.

Dad
November 6^th 2008

11.6.2008

Hello Chumley! Hard to believe it was four years ago today you left us for your new journey. So much has taken place in all of our lives since then, but a day does not go by without you in it in some special way. Today, Meryl and I decided to do something unique in your honor and boy did we! We got up at 4:30 this morning and drove about an hour north of Tampa so we could swim with the Manatees. Donning wet suits, masks and snorkels, your sister and I entered the warm river waters around 8:00 AM. It was a beautiful day and the sun was coming up over the tree line and warm rays of light penetrated the water. It took us a few minutes to adjust to the water and breathing through a snorkel as we made our way to the slow-moving giants with the friendly faces. After about 15-minutes, Meryl and I came face-to-face with a rather adventurous Manatee who swam right up to us, allowed us to scratch his head and body and even did a complete spin to impress us. Mr. Manatee did something else (that I won't mention) that I know would have made you laugh....I could hear you laughing. In fact, I hear your laugh all the time. It keeps me going and reminds of all the laughter we shared with the time we had and it rekindles my appreciation for the gift you shared with us. To complete the day of recognition to our favorite young man of all time, we had McDonald's for breakfast, a Dunkin Donut for a snack and I had a ground sirloin burrito at Q Doba. We will be joined by Annie tonight for dinner at a yet to be established location but I am thinking one of your favorites... ribs. We will talk about you, laugh and toast you as we do every year. I know you know I love you and miss you....cheers mate. Love, Dad.

Amanda Russon
June 2^nd 2008

Happy 16th Birthday Harry.

I often find myself thinking of you and the morning when my mom told me what happened. I still feel like it is unreal. I just don't understand why this happened. Your life was just beginning and you brought so much joy to others.

Harry Fest was a great success this year. Lots of people came to support the foundation. 3 beads, 2 bracelets, and 1 pamphlet get added to my "Harry wall." I wish I didn't have that 'wall' because that would mean you were still here. Every morning and every night I think to myself how it isn't fair. I don't understand why this happen. Why God took you so soon. And every year at Harry Fest I tell myself that I am not going to cry during the balloon launch. That this day is about celebration; a celebration of life.

Every since 'that morning' I realized that life is unpredictable; anything can happen. You should appreciate what you have, because in an instant it can all be taken away from you.

As the 'celebration' was about to begin, and the balloons were being handed out, all I could hear was your dad telling everyone to say Happy Birthday Harry and release your balloon. To see the balloons float up toward you was hard to watch. I walked over to my dad and he held me tightly and all I could think was why.

As it cooled down I put on your blue Chicago zip-up. At first I was a little hesitant to wear it. It had that certain smell and I didn't want it to lose it. But your dad was right. He told that when I wore it I would feel closer to you and I did. I can't describe the feeling I felt.

It's crazy how you don't realize how much one person means to you until they are no longer with you. To go from seeing someone everyday to only seeing them in photos is hard. I still wish that I saw you everyday; coming up to our lunch table and just bugging us. I miss your big ol’ smile and your laugh. I miss seeing you and Matt walking to lunch, messing around with people on your way, just laughing with each other and telling stories and jokes.

I loved the fact that you were or would try to be friends with everyone. You were such a warm-hearted kid. Since we weren't the closest of friends I never realized how much you meant to me. I miss you Harry. I wish that this was just one big nightmare that I'd wake up from soon; but unfortunately it's not. We have to live with God's decision to take you home to him; he has a reason for everything.

Never will you be forgotten. You were loved by many.

I miss you soooo much and I everyday wish you were here!

Happy 16th Birthday Harry.

-Amanda Russon

brittani havenaar
June 1^st 2008

I still remember those days way back in mr. prentices math class. I sat right next to harry and he ould always tease me but i always got him back, that always made him laugh a little. Since him and mr. prenice were both MSU fans they would always both show up with happy faces on games days, there was only one difference between mr. p and harry that was that even when msu lost harry still had a happy smile on his face. Ging to harry fest this year helped me remember what a great pal and friend his was sill is in my heart today and for the rest of my life!!! I will never forget you exspecially after listening to what happened at your holloween paty in 5th grade over again. I wil always miss that smile on your loving face,

brittani

Dad
May 20^th 2008

Happy Birthday Harry! Hard to imagine that you would be driving yourself to school today and even harder to accept that you won’t. Such is life eh? We were talking about you last night and thinking about what we could do today to honor your 16th birthday. I thought maybe I should start a new tradition and buy a bike for some kid who needs one. That would serve as a fun reminder of all the bikes I bought you over the years that either got run over by your sister or stolen…lol. I so loved going birthday shopping for you…it was so easy and fun and I knew whatever I got you would love it. I was also thinking about participating in one of your favorite activities but I am having a tough time deciding between Pizza Hut and Q Doba…if only there were a Ritter’s here in Florida! What I do know for sure young man is how great my life became the day you entered it and I will never be ungrateful for the years I got to spend with you. I love you sooooo much Harry….happy 16th. Dad.

Sean Olinger
May 5^th 2008

Hey,

Harry and I always had similar intrests. We were both involved in sports often on the same team. We often had good times during football or basketball practice as well as at the lunch table. I remember how the last year of rocket football we got split on to different teams and both of our teams were undefeated. We would argue over who's team was better. Even the day before he died we had an open gym for basketball. We were on the same team and we never lost. I was last one to talk as we walked out the door. I told him that I'd see him later. Then the next night it was around 10 or 11 my family and I were just talking about stuff and then we got a call. My mom came in and told us that Harry might be gone. I didn't believe her at first. Then by her face I knew that she was serious. It really hit me twice. Once on that next day of school and then at the funeral home when I talked to his dad. At school it was odd to see how people that barely knew him react. It was most likely the most difficult event that I had to deal with.

Amanda Russon
November 10^th 2007

Heyy Harry,

Wow 3 years. It feels like it was just yesterday that you were sitting with Matt at the lunch table and then you'd get up and walk right over to ours and start messing around with everyone. I wish that was still the case. I miss you so much. It still doesn't seem real. I can remember the day my mom told me what happend, the morning of 11/7/07. She came in my room and asked me if i was alright. ''Yeah I was sleeping, why?'' and then she told me. I remember just staring at her like she was nuts and when she just keep looking back at me I knew it was true and I just couldnt believe it. I didnt understand why God needed you at such a young age and truely I still don't. Tuesday I thought would have been a tear full day, but it wasnt. Wearing that Harry Fest shirt and that wrist band just made me feel close to you. When it all first happend I can remember I would feel so lost if I didn't have that wrist band on.

Words can't describe how much you are missed and how often you are thought about. I still lay there at night and look up at my 'Harry wall' and just think of you and how I wish we could all see you again. I wish that this was all a BIG, LONG, Horrible, dream that I will wake up from someday soon, but I know it's not. November 6 is not just an ordinary day like it use to be. It means something. It's the day where EVERYONE who knew you thinks about you every second of the day and some, like you family, live that day for you and how you would have done it.

Gosh Harry I really do miss you. I don't understand why God would want all the people who were touched by you to go through all this sadness. I just wish I could reverse time and change everything and just bring you back.I miss seeing your big smile and hearing your laugh. You were such a good kid, and your family is such good people and they didn't deserve to lose you.

May you and God be with your family in all their hard times.

You will always be remembered, loved, and missed for ever and ever.

I'll see you when God says it's my time to go.

Love && Miss you Harry, and may God be with you Stout family, you are always in my prayers.

-Amanda Russon

Allie Stout
November 6^th 2007

Yo bror,

So I’m sitting here, again, only this time it isn’t in an smelly dorm underneath my lofted bed with my roommate still asleep next to me; but it doesn’t matter, because I could be anywhere today and feel the same way.

The weather has “dropped” here in Florida, and for Florida, that means getting into Michigan fall temps. Regardless, I love the feeling. Fall is my favorite time of year, and I think it’s because that was the last month I had with you. The Michigan State Football game, your football games, Homecoming court–I think about that picture of you and Meryl and I where we’re all sniffing my flower lol, and riding quads with you in back yard. I remember how everyone would holler at you for going too fast, but no one complained when you took them for rides! I miss this part of the year being away from home, but I miss you more, because you’re a part of home Harry.

People probably wonder why we celebrate this day instead of mourn, but who mourns? Pffff. I guess you could say we do it Harry style. And by Harry style, I’ve informed my friends how I plan to eat certain things, and try to have as much fun as possible today. My co-workers are going to ask “Why is that girl who eats extremely healthy and never touches the Otis Spunkmeyer cookies chowing down on pop-tarts and Krispy Kremes?” I’ll just smile and say it’s for my bro. Someone will wonder why I’m wearing a small sweatshirt that says Gilkey Elementary on it, I’ll smile and say it’s for my bro. People might wonder why my eyes are swollen today, I doubt I’ll smile, but I’ll definitely say it’s cause I’m thinking about my bro. If people ask me why my breath stinks, I’m gonna say I didn’t brush my teeth, in honor of my bro...just playin Harry...haha. I think Paw and I are going to the arcade today–I’d play Madden but I forgot how. I haven’ t played since I last whomped you =) That was the ONLY video game I was good at Harry, I’m kind of glad too. I’m sure Dad and I will have a competitive match at something, similar to the time we were in Chicago and Mom would not stop shouting “Whow whoaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!” lol

It’s hard to imagine you’re going on 16. This year you’d be getting your license; whoa, I’m sure you’d of made an awesome driver though, and I can imagine us cruising down Riverview with your 6'5 body scrunched in a little car, and the both of us leaning back to Fat Joe. Jeez, remember how ridiculous I’d be in the mornings? Screaming for you to get in the car :/ we all know I’m punctual though....like Dad said though, your friends are amazing–everyone loves you so much. Everyone’s doing something different today, but I can tell you that EVERYONE is thinking about how much they miss you. I asked my college friends, who didn’t know you, if they wanted to watch your DVD last night, they all did. So my three roommates and Corinna and I sat on my bed and cried; laughed because you are so fricking adorable, but cried–I feel like they know you too for some reason, I guess that’s a good thing. =)

What I wouldn’t do to just tell you all this in person; “catch up.” If you were sitting at my bed right now, I’d tell you all about life, how much it’s changed, how much everyone misses you, blah blah blah, but I’d really just want to hear your voice, that little cackly laugh of yours, go back and forth and diss each other, maybe even have you chew a piece of gum, I don’t know why but you did it a certain way and it was so “you.” I just really miss you Harry. Mom, Meryl, Dad and I all do, and your friends, and my friends. I just hope whatever you’re doing today, you know that we’re all okay. I don’t really pray I guess, but I hope that you are happy whatever you’re doing, whether it’s playing video games all day, watching the Cowboys kick the Eagles butt (ha, funny how I feel like I shouldn’t be swearing when I’m talking to you) eating, duh, or mackin’ on some chicks, because I know you’d be a tall handsome stud by now–I hope you’re happy.

Love you so much Harry. Miss you, and can’t wait to see you again. Love Allie.

P.S. I’m going for a run this morning–you know the first song on my ipod is Lean Back ;) let’s dance.

Dad
November 6^th 2007

Hello Chumley,

Three years. Hard to imagine not having you here with us in physical form for such a long time Harry and I miss you every single minute of the day. Today, Allie and I will do our best to honor you….which includes a variety of consumption activities and maybe some miniature golf….we may even watch Kung Pao. Whatever we do it will be with you in our hearts.

The other day I was thinking how lucky we are to have had you in our lives…to have someone you love so much that you just can’t get over them…that’s powerful stuff bruiser. I continue to take what you gave me and do my best to turn it into positive change in my life and those around me….there are so many times I feel your presence and hear your laughter and it keeps me going.

I could go on and on about how much I love you, how much I miss you and how you have made me a better man but I thought instead I would turn my attention to the people reading this…your family and friends that are having as much difficulty as I am with your physical absence. I am so touched by your friends Harry and you have some great ones. They help out at all the foundation events, they wear Harry Fest Tee Shirts and many of them continue to wear their “Harry” wrist bands. Daily! I can’t begin to tell you how it touches my heart when I see them and they share with me what you meant to them. You have friends Harry that write in this posting three years later and something tells me they will continue too for years to come.

Your older friends miss you too….and many of them are dealing with their own pain. Amy passed recently and Andy and his family are dealing with the emotional pain that comes with the territory.

I know how hard it is on your mother, your sisters and the rest of your family. I know because I feel it every day just like they do. I guess what I am saying is in some strange way it is comforting to know that I am not alone in the way I miss you….quite the opposite actually. There are so many people that miss you and whose lives you have had such a positive impact on….and that makes dealing with the sadness tolerable.

I am so proud of you Harry and today my heart, my thoughts and prayers go to all of us who miss and love you so dearly. Our world was a better place with you in it….and we are all grateful for you making it so!

All my love, always.

Dad

Dad
May 24^th 2007

Happy Birthday Harry! I saw so many of your classmates this past weekend at Harry Fest and my how they have grown up. I canÂ€™t help but wonder how you would look todayÂ€¦how tall you would be, how hard you would make me laugh and what it would be like to hold you in my arms. You have many good friends handsomeÂ€¦ both young and old and there were a bunch of them at your birthday party on Saturday. It was a day you would loveÂ€¦.warm sunny skies, lots of good food, rides, live music and all kinds of friends and family having a great time. It is what I imagined Harry Fest would be and I know that over the next few years it will grow to become a big day for many people. I miss getting you birthday presentsÂ€¦especially bikes. It seems like I got you a new one every year and whenever I go to a store and see all the bikes lined up I think of you. Then again, I think about you all the time and so do a lot of other peopleÂ€¦.you are hard to forget my boyÂ€¦.you made quite an impression. On your birthday Meryl and I sat in a hot tub to sooth our aching muscles from the long weekend and to celebrate we ate cookies and drank milk in the hot tubÂ€¦.so very Harry like. Last night we celebrated MerylÂ€™s 21st birthday and she had a pretty good timeÂ€¦.we missed you and I know how proud you would be of her and Allie. Life is so much different without you champ but we all are doing our best to honor you by living life to its fullest. We all miss you Harry more than words can explain and my love for you goes beyond this lifetimeÂ€¦.it is forever. Happy 15th HarryÂ€¦.Love Dad.

Amanda Russon
May 20^th 2007

Happy 15th Birthday Harry!!!

Yesterday was the Harry Fest, It was amazing, but I'm sure you already new that. It was really hard for me this year to do the balloon release, probabaly because of the new way it was done. Even though it was cool and all it made me see that you weren't there. The last years when we would just sing Happy Birthday it made me think that you, your body, spirit, and heart, were still with us. I hope you heard everyone say Happy Birthday to you and the many people tell you that they love you! But this year the balloons were different,they were very cool to watch, because as they were floating up to you, they all came together very soon. Many said it was because there was a wind, but I believe that it was all you. You were reaching down and grabbing the balloons, like each balloon was a part of the person who let it go, and you were just gathering them and bringing them to you so that you could have each person close to you at once. The balloons were like the people there. They were all released and floating up to see you and wishing you one big Happy Birthday, I hope you got it.

In choir Mr. Cahoon, the choir teacher, must have a thing for sad songs, or then again maybe it's just me. A lot of the songs we sing remind me of you, but there is one that sticks out more than the others. It's called Flying Free and one line said ." you are the bird above the trees" everytime we sang this song I got a little choked up because I believe that your spirit is still with us, whether its just a spirit, or seeing through anothers person's eyes, or in creatures form. I think that every holiday, birthday, family dinner, and family gathering that your family holds are you there with them. Just like I think that you were at your fest for sometime. Once through a creature just passing by to see how things are, then through another person's eyes so that you could go and talk to your family and give them big ol' hugs and be close to them. And then as just a spirit, so that you could be with everybody there, sitting next to them on the hill, or on a ride with them, or comforting them when they were sad, and then just enoying the fest with everyone.

Another line from the song was " you are the bird up in the sky, you have taught me how to fly" this is where my eyes would water because I thought that God gave you your angel wings, sent you out with him and a group of birds and then he taught you how to fly, so then you could come down and visit your family whenever you wanted or when they needed you.

Harry you have touched many people's lives. No matter how many years go by nobody can or will ever forget you. You are probably the most loved person on earth. Harry Fest is the one thing I look forward to every year because I love being around your family because they remind me so much of you. Even though after the balloon release its hard to be around then, becasue they remind me so much of you and I miss you so much, I love to be able to go up to your dad and just give it a big hug and he knows how I'm feeling and I know how he is feeling without any words said!

Harry I love and miss you will all my heart and I love your family for always being there and being so strong through everything.

Happy 15th Birthday Harry!!!

See you next year!!!

Amanda Russon
November 6^th 2006

WOW 2years. I cant believe it.

Last night i prayed before i went to bed, asking God to help me get through tomorrow(which is today), asking him to help me, your family, and everybodys life that you touched, help keep us strong. But i also asked him to send me a sign that you are ok, telling me that you are happy, having fun, and enjoying life, also to tell me that you do believe you are in a better place. Until today i never truely thought that God was listening to me. But, today that changed. I thought today was going to be, not going to see me smile all day,make-up smeared,tears running down my face and in my eyes all day kind of day, but i was wrong. I woke up this morning sad becuase i knew what today held. But as the day went on, the classes ended, and the hours passed by i realized that i thought wrong. God must have heard my prayer last night of me telling him to send me a sign that you are alright. Today i actually felt like you and the Lord were with me today all day keeping me happy and constantly reminding me that you are here and ok. Feeling the feeling i had today was wonderful.

Even though i had that feeling today i know tonight i will cry myself asleep just thinking about you like i did last night. Praying to the Lord and to you.Today was the day i dedicated to you. This is the day where i think about nobody but you, all the memories in middle school..you coming up to Olivia and the rest of out lunch table just talking away, the day where i wear your shirt with your picture and change my myspace page in honor of you.

Well my basketball season is almost over and boys will be starting here soon. Another year that we wont see you play is breaking my heart. But i know that you will be with us,in spirit, watching and cheering you team on. This year will be another hard year. Not hearing you name when they announce the players, not hearing your name when you score a basket..or even the winning basket.

Sitting here writing on this page is hard. There is so much i want to say and tell but i cant put it in words or in writing. Going through High School not seeing your big ol' smile in the hallway or hearing your voice travel down the hall is sort of hard.

Tomorrow when my basketball team circles up before our game, the last thing i will say to them is Let's Play This One For Harry and Win It For His Also. That will come from my heart and i know i will play for you. Also the Otsego game, last game on the year at Otsego this thrusday those words will be repeated again. But probably will more pride and joy and meaning becuase it is a rival game, the last game of the year, and the most meaningful game of our season and i want them to win it for you.

Harry Stout. you will ALWAYS be remembered,in my thoughts, and in my prayers, and always loved and missed.

I hope to see you in heaven. Dont for me like i wont ever forget you.

Love you and Miss you so badly. I'd do anything to bring you back to life, and if i couldnt do that then bring you back so that everyone could talk to you, say goodbye and hear your voice and see that smile one last time.

Allie Stout
November 6^th 2006

Hey Harry,

I look at your face on this page and it hurts me so much because I miss your faces...all of them. I'm sitting in my dorm right now and writing this is a lot harder than I thought it was going to be. Last year was so different, 1 year with you gone, not knowing how to feel or what to do. Being in the house with you not there was hard, but not being there doesn't make this any easier. I think about you constantly; and I wish so badly that you were here to go through my life with me. I know you are with me all the time, but there are some things I want to do and share with you that just aren't possible.

As dad said already we are going all out for you today. I'm probably going to get sick from eating so much food and riding roller-coasters, but it's all worth it for you bro :) I'm planning on going for a run here shortly, (sorry, I know you weren't the biggest fan of running) but every now and then the "lean back" song comes on my ipod, and I think about how you would always lean with it in my passengers seat on the way to school. I chuckle inside because as much as you hated my music, you would always perk up for that song and we could lean and rock together.

Like dad said, I've become quite the Cowboys fan. Don't ask me how but I now manage to get upset when they make mistakes too. Fricken T.O. dropped a rediculous pass yesterday that sent us over the edge. T.O. pffffff

I know you've seen my new environment here at school; you keep leaving me dimes everywhere don't you? You better bet I pick up everyone I see too. Keep em coming Harry, if you visit me enough I wont be so broke in a few months :)

I miss you a lot Harry, tons actually. I hope you are happy and having just as much fun today as were are having for you.

I love you bro, always.

Love your sister, Allie

Dad-11-6-06
November 6^th 2006

So howâ€™s my boy? I know you are well, free from fear and worldly anchors but I gotta tell you I sure wish you were here like you used to be. I have come to know what it is like to miss someone so badly for so longâ€¦.two years now and I know that the missing you will not end until our next adventure.

We have all come a long way in those two years my friend and we have grown. You gave each of us something to hold on too and that is something I will always be grateful for.

So many times over the past 48-hours I have thought back to what we were doing two years agoâ€¦playing basketball, eating a big turkey dinner, watching a movie together, camping out in my room, watching Meryl play soccerâ€¦.they bring me more joy than sadness and I know that means I am healing. Broken hearts do heal but they are never the sameâ€¦I know this now.

I am in Tampa with Allie and I am so glad I could be with at least one of the incredible children your mother and I were blessed with. We watched the Cowboys lose a tough one to the Redskins of all peopleâ€¦.a game we easily should have won. I thought about you many times throughout the game, thinking of how we used to watch them together. I have converted Allie in to being a Cowboys fan and I wore your Cowboys tee shirtâ€¦.I canâ€™t believe how good I look in it! LOL!

We have been thinking of the best way to honor you today and I think we have come up with some excellent choices: I will hunt down a Kripsy Kreme and pound a few for you and me. Then Allie and I are going to Busch Gardens and ride the coasters. I know this would be an activity high on your list and I will never forget the time we went to Los Angeles and spent the day at Universal Studios. Allie and I will eat as much junky food as possible and we will smile and laugh as often as possible. Most importantly big fella, we will be kind and appreciative as you were, are and will always be.

In many ways I am still lost but each day I get closer to knowing the truth, remembering where I came from and who I really am.

You are my light Harry and my love for you is beyond any words I could writeâ€¦it is as we know it and for that I am so lucky. Iâ€™ll talk with you soon Chumleyâ€¦be a good boy:-)

Love,

Dad

Nick Blue
September 30^th 2006

Hey Harry,

It's been almost 2 years now since you've been gone. Recently i have been thinking about you a lot more than i usually do. I just started highschool a few weeks ago and I've been thinking about when i was younger i would picture us being highschoolers and you being HUGE like you have always been. I remember going to our sister's soccer games and basketball games and hanging out with you and Matt and always doing something besides watching the games because we have seen so many in our lifetime together. I remember meeting you for the first time at a force game and you stole my hat and i couldnt do anything to get it back because you were so much bigger than me so i bit you. I will never forget that because you were forever reminding me. But after that we were good friends ever since. Always going to games playing with action figures, having Emma pick on us and me and you picking on Emma. Going to soccer tournaments and at the hotels chasing me and emma with your lightsaber. Going to basketball games and making up the wierdest games to entertain ourselves and using payphones to prank call people. You coming to my house during the summer riding your bike or me riding my bike to your house. We'd play video games or just hang out and talk. I just keep thinking how much i wish you were here.

I miss you man

Dad
May 22^nd 2006

Happy 14th chumley....you know I wish you were here in the way you once were so I could hold you, hug you, kiss you and give you 14 birthday spankings. (Although I don't know if we could hold you down anymore) I am growing more comfortable with where you are now but it doesn't stop me from missing you. We had a party for you this weekend that I know you would have enjoyed....food, music, golf, rides, games and dancing. A lot of people that really care about you showed up bro...it was awesome! I also wanted to thank you for making your presence known on Sunday when I was at Bittersweet by myself...it was undeniable and it made me feel so loved. You are the man Harry and I love you more than I could ever explain but then again, you already know that. Happy Birthday my son....all my love. Dad

May 20^th 2006

HAPPY 14th BIRTHDAY HARRY!!!!!

April 16^th 2006

it looks like not many people write in here often, but remember you were not forgotten! i think about you all the time! i think about you before i go to bed, when i wake up, in church, everywhere i go! your family looks like they are doing well! Allie did great in the high school play! i still cant get your smile and face out of my mind and thats a good thing! your one person that i'll never want to forget, and never will! i still dont understand why God took you at such a young age. But, i bet he has a good reason! Because you went to heaven i'm really not afraid to die. i know that things will be good because your there. I'll have something to smile and laugh about. I still do believe that your spirit is still down with us. At sporting even i can feel your present! i miss you sooo much and still love you like a brother! everywhere i go i where the wrist band that says HARRY, because without it i feel lost, alone, and sad. with that band on i just feel like your closer to be. although when i think about you i just want to be sad i know that i shouldnt be... you wouldn't want that. I just think of your smile,joke and impressions and that brings a smile to my face. I love and miss you with all my heart.

My thoughts and prayers are still with you Stout family. hope you had a good easter

Love you all

November 13^th 2005

In Memory of Harry

November's trees, lifeless&brown

Patiently harbor new life.

Autumn is different

Without Harry around

When one season ends,

Another begins.

Autumn is different

Without Harry around.

Never forgotten his ebullience

And fun.

Because in this tenuous game

Called life,

Harry daily made that

Touchdown run.

When one season ends,

Another begins,

A torch has burnt out

But a spark lies within.

We miss and love you, Harry.

The Lewis Family
November 8^th 2005

We were fortunate to know him, and it is our honor to remember him...

Elizabeth
November 6^th 2005

Hey.. its so crazy that a whole year has gone by. we all miss you so much. its so great to hear everyone talk about you all the time, every day somebody says something about you, about how you would have the perfect comeback to someone being ignorant, or how you wouldve laughed at something, and its always so nice to know, that even when we lose seeing people every day, we can always feel them. thanks for being such an awesome kid.

-Elizabeth M.

allie (granchin alvin)
November 6^th 2005

hey harry...

i know i should have started out calling you a mean name like poop head or butt sniffer or something, but today is my only exception :). i know you already know how much i miss you, but i just thought i'd share just how much. i wish that i could hear you make fun of me or ask me if i wanted to "wrestol wrestol". and i kinda wish that i could run my fingers through your hair and say "oh tiffany" like we always would, and i don't even remember how it started. i'm glad you're with ty right now though. the other day i thought about how we would always fight over who had to take him out in the morning after school. i hated that. he would be whimpering at the door and we would be whimpering in the kitchen. whenever i drive my car to school in the morning, i always think about taking you to the middle school. whenever we were in good moods (particularly fridays) i would put on "lean back" and the image of you leaning back in your seat are forever imprinted in my brain. i know how much you just lloooooved rap music. :) on friday, my friends came over and we talked alot about you. someone even brought up how we used to share a bedroom. you just loved that didn’t you??? i remember we had the nasty quilt blankets i loved so much, and if your bed wasn't made i yelled at you. but it's only because i'm a neat freak, and you were like...5. hehehe. i always think about you on the quad too, how your hair would blow back in the wind and you would go sooo fast and mom would get mad. and i missed seeing you play football this year too. i can't help but think about what you would look like in high school, or if you'd be #1 for tackles on the football team, or if when you graduated you'd be voted class clown, or best looking, or friendliest, because i think that's how a lot of your class mates look at you still--as the friendly funny big kid. i'll never forget taking you to your first day of middle school in the Hummer, we had the music real loud and you were embarrassed. me and meryl assured you that you would be the coolest kid in 6th grade because you just rolled up in an H2, but you were already cool, you didn't need our help. i know you saw me dressed for homecoming, you were in the pictures. hopefully you can sneak into a couple shots when i graduate too. i hope you're having fun right now...and just thought i'd share those memories with you...things havn't been the same without you and i hope you can hear me when i talk to you. i love you more than i thought i ever could harry. hope you're havin one heck of a feast! love you bro

allie

Amanda Russon
November 6^th 2005

WOW can you believe it?!...1 year! I know I cant believe it.I know today will be a kind of hard day knowing what this day is, but I will try to big happiness into it just for you big guy.

Words can't describe how I am feeling right now. I know what I want to say but my fingers can't type what my heart is feeling. I miss you sooo gosh darn much Harry. The morning flashes back when my mom came in and told me everything what happened.I just looked at her,shocked, eyes wide open and tears running down my face instantly. Last nite I was a little worried to go to bed. I was afraid on how I was going to be woken up and what was going to happen the next morning or day. But when I woke up and nothing had happend I felt relief. The moment relief went through my body I knew you were there, looking over all of us,protecting us and reminding us that you and everything is OK.

I went to church like I always do again. But today was different. The songs we sang and the words my pastor said touched my heart in a way it never has before. I started to tear up. It was hard to hold back the tears, some just had to come out. I held most of them in but not all. I new I didn't want to bring sadness into this day beacause I knew you wouldn't want that. You would want everybody to go with there day with fun and excitment.

I have tired my hardest to be happy and not cry, but it gets so hard. Just thinking about you and that it has been 1 year. I miss you dearly harry and I would give the world to bring you back, but I cant. Well, all I can bring back is your spirit inside my heart and the memories and jokes that made my day.

Even though you are gone I feel that you are here. I mean who needs a body to show that somebody is here?! All you need is memories, the thoughts, and the belief in your spirit. Your body may not be with us but your spirit, happiness, and everything else about you will never be gone!

I repeat again,I know what I want to say but my fingers can't type what my heart is feeling. I bet you know what I am feeling inside though Harry. I MISS U SOOO DARN MUCH HARRY!!!! :-/

My prayers are still with you Stout family and I pray you get through life with all the memories Harry has left behind!

Love Always

*~*Amanda Russon*~*

Joe Stout
November 6^th 2005

11-06-2005

Hey champ….I can hardly believe that it has been a year. There are days when it feels like it has been just a few months and other days when it feels like it has been years. No matter how long it has been it never really seems to change how much I miss you.

I have resided to the fact that I will never get over the daily absence of that smile, that laughter, that compassion, that joy, that mischievousness, and that kindness that makes you the amazingly wonderful person you are.

I am not alone.

There are so many people Harry….so many whose lives were touched by you. So many incredible gestures our community and others have made to honor your memory and to keep your spirit alive in our lives.

The Plainwell basketball program has an award in your name and the Friendship Tournament in Parchment that you played in has an award in your name. So many people over the past year have done so many incredible things to benefit your foundation and given of themselves to make it happen.

But then again my boy….you are not ordinary. You are truly one of the most incredible people I have ever known and will know which is why I will not write about the day that changed my life forever. Instead I will write about the 13 years that changed my life forever.

I promise I will never be ungrateful for what my life has brought me. There are days I struggle mightily with what took place on November 6th, 2004….yet I know….I truly know that there will be a day when I will understand fully. I think it will be one of those “Ah Hah!” moments that I will share with you and others that have come before.

So many times I sit back in silence and solitude and think about you. I allow the visions of you appear clearly in my mind and I joyfully get lost in them.

What do I see?

I see that amazing smile of yours that was so genuine, so joyful. I can see you walking out of your mom’s house to my car when I came to pick you up and I can see it when I picked you after school.

Not some of the time….every time. Joy just poured out from you Harry and so did compassion.

I know how much you cared for all living things and how much you respected life. If it was your heart that ended your time here maybe there was just too much love in it that had to be set free.

Of course I miss your laughter and your sense of humor. Perhaps we were both just a little weird but we could always make each other laugh and when I close my eyes I can hear your impersonations of movie characters.

I can also feel your arms around me and mine around you. There was nothing else like it.

I hold everything about you closely in my heart and whenever I get lonely I can find you in laughter, in beauty, in silence. You are there always.

Those 13 years will never be forgotten and those 13 years have made me a better person. You are a tough role model to live up to young man but I vow that I will do my best and that all of the promises I make to you will be fulfilled.

I know you are eternal as I have felt your presence so many times. You have provided me with signs and messages that have not gone unnoticed and I am so thankful. You have taken so much fear out of my life and provided me with clear signs to the path of remembering.

I am so grateful.

Therefore today I will do my best not to think of what I have lost but instead what I have and what you have given me for it is truly a gift.

I will say goodbye with the prayer that I say for you every night.

“I pray that Harry is happy…so very happy and truly joyful! That he is laughing, smiling, eating all the things he loved to eat and playing. That he is doing whatever he wants, whenever he wants, wherever he wants. That he has no fears, no concerns, no worries and that he is wrapped up in God’s unconditional love. That he knows that we will be alright and that he need not worry about us. And God, one last thing….until I can do it myself, give him a great big hug for me and tell him how much I love him and miss him.”

I’ll talk to you later big fella…you are the man.

Love,

Dad

jess
August 2^nd 2005

hey big man~

on your b-day i was praying that it was a good one. although i couldn't make it to the party i was praying it didn't rain. i miss u harry. i read the messages that yur dad leaves and i just wanna cry. i pray that your happy. save me a spot im heaven, harry. love you lots and lots

jess

Kaylie Blank
August 1^st 2005

Hey Harry! dude school has changes so much and we wish you could be here to see it. i missed seeing you on that basketball court. we all miss you and love you!

Jessy La More
June 7^th 2005

I will never forget you for as long as i live harry.Be with us all. We love and miss you 4 ever

friend
June 7^th 2005

harry was an incedable person,

jus walking down the hall seeing a smile on his face was cool. Well its been almost half a year not seeing that same smile in the hall everyday. It saddens me not to see him, when you wonder why him. but god wanted him home. It was scary to think he was on earth living 5 moths ago but now its more scary tot hink its been 5 moths w/ou thim on earth. stout family i am sorry and u are in our prayers. By the way Ali good job in collage, harry was watching you......trust me i know he was he told me.

friend

Amanda Russon
June 7^th 2005

Today is the 22nd of May! Yes that means we celebrated Harry's 13th Birthday today! It was pretty cool! Me and some others worked the ticket booth! I was soo glad I came! But as 7:30 apporched i just wanted to burst out in tears and give the Stout family the biggest hug that i could give! why? well at 7:30 everyone there released either a blue, white or both balloons! THAT WAS HARD! It was hard to release them and to listen to the music before and after we did!It was hard to see everyone in apin and in tears! It was hard beacause we did the same thing at Harry's funeral! :-( As we let them all go i held back my tears! i didn't want to cry. I didn't want to be sad when we were celebrating his birthday! But then I saw Gabby, Shannon,The Stouts and a whole lot more I couldn't help myself I couldn't hold them back no longer! I was in tears! As we walked around I would try to stop. I would think that ''He is in a better place'' and the words that my dad told me '' just like the little broucher says, today is A celebration of life!'' As i held on to my dad and mom I realized I may be in this much pain but the Stout's have to be in more! I wanted to give everyone of them a hug but everytime I got close the tears would start again beacause I felt sorry for them!

I realized I shouldn't feel sorry for them though! They may have lost the sight of Harry there brother and son but that doesn't mean that they lost the spirit of him! They still have him in there hearts,mind, and i'm sure enough in there prayers! People dont have to be in sight to know that they are there! As long as you keep them in your heart they can't get any closer to you!

At the end when me, my sister, and my mom all left we gave Mr. Stout a hug! He reminds me of Harry so much that when I hugged him and talked to him it left like I was hugging and talking to him and Harry! It was the best feeling!

When Mr. Stout asked me how I was I could honestly say good! As we hugged and talked I was feeling a little bit better every second that I was in his arms! As he complimented me on what I said I felt that someone actually listened to me! They listened to my feelings! He made me feel like i wasn't just a writer in this but an acutal person! It's amzing what so little words can mean! So thank you for making me feel better! And making me feel like i was heard and somebody not just a writer!

Stout Family you are in my dreams, mind, heart, and prayers until the world comes to an end!

Harry was a great kid thanks to you and everybody in your family! Stay Strong because no what what happens to you or anyone no matter what you do or think Harry is always there for you and with you!......every second of the day!

HAPPY 13TH BRITHDAY HARRY! MISS YOU! SEE YOU IN HEAVEN I PROMISE YOU THAT! SAVE ME A SPOT RIGHT NEXT TO YA! LOVE U HARRY AND STOUT FAMILY!!! :-)

LOVE ALWAYS,

AMANDA RUSSON

Peggy
June 7^th 2005

I felt inspired after having met Joe Stout for the first time on Sunday at the birthday party/fundraiser to visit the foundation web-site which led me here. I don't know you personally and I can say that even now in his passing Harry has touched my heart. Joe if your son was anything close to as sincere and energetic as you displayed to me in the 2 minutes I had your attention then I understand every word spoken about him here and on Sunday. He must have been a dynamic kid. In keeping his memory alive you have impacted the life of someone who didn't know him and I know you and he will impact many more lives than mine. I feel priveledged to have shared the day with you yesterday and cannot fathom the way you must feel. I told my husband when we returned home, "As much as it hurts me to think about their loss having no children of our own, I can't imagine how much greater their pain must be."

Joe you amaze me! You and your family absolutely amaze me. I was blown away that you on a day like Sunday were even able to put together the association of me to my husband and the cheesecakes. Thank you. Thank you for sharing such a precious moment in time with the general public. Thank you for bringing such a great kid into the world and then deciding to share him with the world even after losing him. I pray much success to you and the foundation in the future.

Joe Stout
June 7^th 2005

Happy Birthday Harry!

My boy is 13 today…a teenager at last.

I have no words that can explain how deeply I miss you and how this day is so empty without your physical presence. I sit here alone wondering what I would be doing if you were still here.

Would I be wrapping a present for you that you could open first thing in the morning?

Would I be preparing your favorite breakfast of eggs, sausage and pancakes?

Would I be trying to wake you up for the 3rd time as you lay comfortably in bed saying, “in a minute dad.”

What I would do just to see that smile once more and to hear your laughter. To see you walk down the sidewalk of the Middle school towards my car after your day of school had ended…the joy that you gave me when our eyes would meet.

“How was your day champ?”

“Great pops, how ‘bout yours?”

So often the same words yet never without genuine concern and affection; It somehow made my day alright no matter how poorly it may have been.

What would we do for your birthday dinner?

Your mom would have certainly made that chocolate cake we loved so much and I have an idea there would be Plainwell ice cream as well. I’m guessing pizza or burgers on the grill for dinner and then the unwrapping of your birthday gifts.

What would I have gotten for you on your 13th birthday? Hopefully not another new bike! That would mean that no one ran over or stole the ones I got the last two years …but you know I would keep buying you bikes every year no matter what. I can see you riding down the street with that big ‘ole smile…the wind blowing back your hair.

Maybe a new game for your play station, a new basketball or tickets to some event?

I know on this birthday like every birthday that I would hug you and hold you. By now you would be pushing six feet tall and even more handsome then before. You would say “thank you so much” for all the things Meryl, Allie, your mom and I got for you and you would really mean it.

We would laugh and joke and realize that what we have is precious and perfect.

I can see you looking at me Harry and it’s breaking my heart even though I know you are wrapped in the embrace of the unconditional love of God.

I love you big fella and I want you to have the happiest birthday ever. Celebrate, rejoice and eat so much cake and ice cream that you feel ill!

Blow out your candles my man, but please…. let me make the wish.

Happy 13th Harry!

Love,

Dad

jwo
June 7^th 2005

you know the thing that has helped me get over this and realize that he's in a better place is god. the person who called harry home has helped me through all of this. i still love and pray for him. i miss him. luv ya lots harry. I MISS U!!!

just someone
June 7^th 2005

HARRY what a name. oh i miss him,soooooo much. i love him soooooo much. he wa always there for me and everyone else. I MISS HIM SOOOOOO MUCH.

well i have to go but i'll see you later. good night.

-me-

Amanda Russon
June 7^th 2005

My Friend

My Friend when I think of you.

I think of all that we've been through.

All the times we argue and fight,

I know deep inside that it isn't right.

I, then feel bad and alot of pain.

It feels like I've fallen from the sky like the rain.

I love you dear friend with all of my heart.

But now that you're gone I've fallen apart.

I'm getting better as the days go by.

I wish sometimes this was all a big lie.

I pray to you every night.

It's like you're my fire, a burning light.

My dear friend, I miss you alot.

I still wonder why you were put in that spot.

I know you're in a place much better than here.

Watching and helping me with all of my fear.

Our friendship my dear friend,

we will have to the end.

Friends til the end is what we will be.

Someday we'll be together,

together you and me.

Friend
June 7^th 2005

I have been through what you all are going through. its tough some days you will just want to scream and ask why he was taken, so young? why would god want to take such a blessed person? but you will just have to take it day. and if you need to cry.then cry. if you need to look at pictures of him for hours .then look at the pictures. the only thing that will help heal your hearts is time. i wish the stout family all of the love in the world. To Joe, Kathy, Meryl , and Allie may Harry be watching over you at this very moment slipping you silent kisses on the cheek or whispering "i love you" in your ears. he will always be with each and everyone of you, just open up your hearts and you will know he is there.

Shannon Carrier
June 7^th 2005

I have another addition to the memories...

Well, its exam week and I cant help but think of Harry during this stressful time.

I can remember last year when I was home over Christmas break and Harry told me "man, I sure am GLAD im not in college"....

Thinking about this, I realize that I need to escape back to that time when I TOTALLY agreed with Harry.

It's the IMPORTANT things in life that we need to focus on and learn from.

Thanks for the lesson Harry... Love you bro

Erin
June 7^th 2005

Well Harry, I was going to post how funny it was to actually get you in a dress, but it seems like thats not such a big deal... you wore dresses all the time!

Today I was looking through a stack of papers from a few years ago. I knew exactly what I was looking for, and I found it. You drew me a picture of me playing a bass guitar. At the time I worked in a school and told every kid that drew me a picture, that I'd hang it up in my room. You drew me that, and asked if I'd hang it on my wall. Today I put it up there, right next to your photograph.

A good friend
June 7^th 2005

harry it's almost been a month since you've been gone and things are almost back to normal. we still miss you and we still think about you but we've seemed to move on (a little) at school. Also i was at your service,and when i heard you dad talk about you it was like he knew you like he were you, ya know? Sadly, i was at a wedding when all of this happened so i didn't know till sunday. and although you were gone i was praying for god to keep you with us. well i will see you in my dreams

Shannon Carrier
June 7^th 2005

When I sit here thinking about my memory submition, I don't even know where to start. Harry was my lil' man, my 3rd little brother. Every time I would come home and I would see those big ol' shoes on the stairway, I knew no matter what life had brought me that day, it was going to bring me a smile at the moment. Harry was the one person in my life that ALWAYS ACTUALLY, TRULY cared about what was happening in my life at that exact moment. "How's college?", "What classes do you have?", "How's soccer?", "Are you buff yet?"... he ALWAYS cared. I come home now and go downstairs into my basement, and it seems empty. Without Harry, my basement isn't a basement. But I know that whenever I go down there, I'll always have a laugh.

We all know it, but Harry was the man. For being 12, Harry was beyond his years. Everytime I was with that kid, I learned something new and interesting. I just can't put into words all the wonderful memories I have of Harry.

In the few years that I knew Harry, I learned so much. Harry was incredibly special in the fact that he set AMAZING examples. I sit here now and can't believe someone like Harry has been taken from us. But I also truly believe that God felt the same way we do now because he couldn't have Harry to Himself. I know he's with me everyday- in every hug, smile, and laugh that I encounter, I thank Harrison Stout.

Joe, Kathy, Meryl, and Allie, I love you guys, and you'll be in my thoughts and prayers forever.

With all my love,

Shannon Carrier

June 7^th 2005

hey harry you know who i am its been a month and two days. isn't that a scary though. well i just thought id write g2g love you.

Kayla Vallier
June 7^th 2005

Hey Harry its me again...It has been wierd at school but everything is gettin better and we still miss and love you!!!

Kayla....

p.s. Luv ya

Samantha
June 7^th 2005

I didn't know Harry very well. I'd call us aquaintences,but I knew tons of people who did know him.It was very hard to see my friend so sad.I will certainly miss you in choir.You were one of the most funny people I knew of,you could make anyone laugh.

From,Samantha

CADMS.NET
June 7^th 2005

I do not know this family, yet I sit in front of my computer and cry... I am heartbroken to see that a loving part of a family and community is gone from this earth.

I found this site through one of my website members--who asked that prayers be said for this family.

You can bet that they are being said--in many different faiths.

From the www.cadms.net FAMILY to the Stout Family---may God be with you.

Lisa
June 7^th 2005

I have known the Stout family since I was in kidergarden. Meryl and I both went to Ellen Snow's birthday party one year and my mom was pregnant for my sister at the same time Kathy was pregnant for Harry. They immediatly hit it off. My mom was saddened to hear about Harry as was I. Harry will truly be missed.

Bob and Amy Williams
June 7^th 2005

Joe and Kathy and family,

We were so shocked to hear about Harry. Your family is in our prayers.

Bob and Amy Williams and family

danielle brink
June 7^th 2005

my favorite memory with Harry was when he and his best friend were trying to get the 4 wheeler away from me. i wouldn't let them have it so Harry got an idea to go get the hose and squirt gun. they spent about 2 hours trying to get it and they did. they got me so wet that i had to go inside and get a pair of dry clothes to ware. when i came out,of corse the quad was gone and i spent an hour chasing them around the house till i finally gave up. Harry and i had many great times together. out of all my friends i think that Harry was the best of all.

dani brink
June 7^th 2005

I remember when harry would give me and my dad a hard time because Harry liked michigan state and we liked michigan. He liked john kerry and we liked bush. yes your probably thinking that we never agreed on anything, but actually we did agree "sometimes". Harry knew how to make me a little mad like when i called shot-gun and he would always use the excuse that he was 10 days older than me to get it and it worked.when i was sad he knew how to make me happy. i have many good memories with harry that i will never forget. my dad and i will miss Harry very much. harry i just want you to know that you were a very great friend to me and everyone who knew you.

love

dani brink

Carol VanAntwerp
June 7^th 2005

I always smile when I think of Harry. He was brave and funny and well loved. I remember the day he came to see me so I could remove some ticks from his scalp. Kathy was appalled, wondering how these dreadful creatures could have latched themselves onto Harry. Harry calmly let me remove them without a complaint. I sensed his amusement at his mom's concern. I will always remember his maturity, kindness and smiling face. You will be missed, Harry!

brandon
June 7^th 2005

I have so much fun with harry and a lot of memerea .

Adam Nieboer
June 7^th 2005

I remember that harry used to always come up behind me and say"guesss who" i could always tell it was harry because his hands were so big. it was still fun. I used to walk to lunch with harry and just joke with him. We love you harry

Mrs. Maurer
June 7^th 2005

Last year in 6th grade, Harry and I had a little friendly competition regarding Michigan State and University of Michigan. I am a "U of M" fan and of course, Harry was an avid "MSU" fan! In ELA class we would always tease each other on Mondays after the weekend games. It was a great time for us and I always looked forward to our back-and-forth comments.

This one's for you Harry . . . GO STATE!

I will miss your smile and your fun loving personality. God Bless your family.

Mrs. Maurer

Brittany Ferguson
June 7^th 2005

Harry, Harry, what can I say about you. I miss you very much. You have the biggest heart of anyone I know. I remember in 6th grade Social Studies we had to do something with the shortest and the tallest. Your were the tallest and I was the shortest.

Also, I remember the Wednesday before you died we were playing baseball for our test review if someone got the answer right you would high-five them

and if someone got the answer wrong - you would still high-five them and say good try.

If Harry were here he would say GO MSU and Kerry should have won the election.

Your Friend,

Brittany Ferguson

Timothy Carrier
June 7^th 2005

I can still see Harry playing Grand Theft Auto in my basement with Matthew. He always made me laughed or jokingly gave me a hard time. Harry, being the size he was, would make fun of me eachtime I put my shoes on. "You wear a size 9!? I wear a 13!"

I'll miss his greeting for me... "Helllllllo Timothy!" Harry, you will be missed by my whole family and I appreciate you being such a good friend to Matthew. He'll never find someone quite like you.

See ya later,

Timothy

Erin Molitor
June 7^th 2005

Harry...We only met once, but one didn't need to know you long to realize what an amazing person you are. You made such an impression on me that day of your sister's graduation party. Smiling, laughing, dancing...you had confidence and maturity beyond your years. Radiating energy and joy, you were contagious! And one look in your eyes told me that this was who you were every day. You live on in the hearts of everyone you touched...and we are so, so many! Our loss is heaven's gain.

Dennis Lee
June 7^th 2005

During the many years Joe and I have been great friends and brothers, it has always been a delight to be around his family on the too few occasions we could get together. I was never sure if I saw a lot of Joe in Harry, or a lot of Harry in Joe. From the time Harry was born it was always obvious that they were a pair in a beautiful family. I particularly enjoyed that Harry would always do his best to make sure that Joe stayed up and motivated. I am sure he had the same effect on his Mom and Sisters as well as the world around him. While mine and my family's hearts are heavy with the saddness of Harry's leaving, we are certain that his love, dreams, sense of humor and brightness of life will always live on in his family and be an inspiration to us all.

With all our Love,

Dennis Lee & Family

Patrick Kidwell
June 7^th 2005

Many years ago,I met Joe Stout as a musician and became friends. I've always admired Joe and his zest for life in all it's good and bad. The best part of Joe was amplified a hundred fold in Harry. I'd never seen a young body try to contain such a vibrant heart and soul. Harry's laugh was contaigous. His smile brightened every room he entered.

Words at a time like this can almost lose their meaning. Words of shared pain, sorrow, or empathy cannot acurately capture my feelings at this time for my freind and his remaining family. The pain will always come back, but as time goes on, the pain will more quickly be replaced with a smile. A smile like Harry's.Remebering the good and important things. Not just the sorrow of his leaving too soon. I'll never forget Joe telling me how he felt about the song "Ants Marching" by the Dave Matthews Band and how it's lyrics reminded us both of the wonder and joy of being Harry's age. All the things as adults we don't (or won't) make time

for anymore.

My heart is with Joe and his family.

"Goes to visit his mommy

She feeds him well his concerns

He forgets them and remembers

being small

Playing under the table and Dreaming"

DMB

Jennifer Keck
June 7^th 2005

Harry was a great friend to me. He would always come up and ask me if I was ok. He would always make me laugh and he would always ask for pencils and strike up a conversation. You all will always be in my prayers.

Jennifer Keck{Keckie}

Jessalyn Smith
June 7^th 2005

Dear Stouts,

Harry was a wounderful friend. I didn't know him until 6th grade. When I just saw him [BUT I DIDN'T KNOW HIM], I didn't like him.But in 7th grade I started to get to know him. When I started to get to know him I did like him. He was nice,funny,kind,and exiting to be around.

We teezed each other and laft about it. He was a good athlete. I never new how important he was to me until november 6th.

HARRY THANK YOU FOR BEING A GOOD FRIEND! I MISS YOU!

Phil and Ellen Hoard (Grandma and Garndpa)
June 7^th 2005

Harrison, boy do we remember when you came into this world. What a little man!! You looked like you could put on a football uniform, grab a football and take off for the end zone. We watched you grow, crawl and start to walk. Soon you were eating solid foods. For a long time you had a great like for hot dogs. You would take a whole package and eat them, often wanting the second package. What an appetite - but very necessary for the rate you were growing up. Then there was the time you, Meryl and Allie came to our house. Your Aunt Amy took you all into the bed room and started bringing the clothes out of the closet. The girls would dress you and themselves up. You would all come out into the living room for pictures. This was repeated several times as we remember. We remember both times you came to Macinaw Island with us. We all had fun. Do you remember the one time your Dad didn't come, you were so worried about him that you kept calling to make sure he was alright.

Then there was the times at the beach. We tried to cover you with sand but had to dig a much bigger hole for you to fit in as you had grown to be a great young man.

Harry you were great in the Civic production of Little Princess. You had a wonderful acting career ahead of you.

This past summer several of your cousins went camping with me (Grandpa) and you were not sure you would like it so you started out in my tent, but before long, you decided your cousins were having way so much fun that you got up to join them in their tent. Remember the home made trap you used to try to catch racoons? What a blast until that skunk came along and some one (Ethan maybe) pulled the string-WOW-lucky for you guys the skunk didn't squirt. What a good time we had and I sure hope you also had a good time, because we were looking forward to you coming back next year but you will still be with us in spirit.

Just last week we saw you at Allie's basketball games. On Thursday, we discussed the abilities of both teams, your team (MSU) and our team (U of M). They always have great games and it is always anyone's guess as to who the winner will be. You can toss out the record bok when they meet.

Harry as far as the game this fall, with MSU being way ahead, and then U of M cathching up to tie was incredible. In the end, anytime you have three over times to win by one touchdown, it might as well been a tie. Harry I am sure that MSU will give you many happy moments in years ahead. Basketball is just around the corner!

Harry, we will miss you more than anyone knows. We believe you are in a much better place in heaven, and we hope to see you some day in the future.

Miss you and love you a bunch!

Love, Grandma and Grandpa Hoard.

Pat & Ginger Burnham Family (Cooper School)
June 7^th 2005

Dear Stout Family:

No words can bring comfort, but our prayers are with you and your family during this time of loss.

May God wrap his loving arms around your family!

Pat, Ginger, Blaine & Andy Burnham

Brittnee Geren
June 7^th 2005

I didn't know Harry all that well but whenever I saw him walking in the halls he was always surrounded by a group of friends. They were always laughing or smiling. Whenever I saw Harry in the halls his head was held high and he was smiling and laughing. It has been different not seeing him walking down the halls. We will all miss you Harry!

Nate Heemstra
June 7^th 2005

I remember giving harry all of my gargoyles and batman toys. He played with them all the time and from the last point i can remember he still has them. My family and i will miss harry with all our hearts.

Cindy (Warner) McQuat and Family
June 7^th 2005

Dear Kathy and Family,

After seeing you at our class reunion in July, we were devastated to hear of

your loss. There just are no words. You are in our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers. We hope you find solace in believing that only time will help to heal the gaping hole in your hearts. May comfort come to you, little by little, through your thousands of cherished memories!

From our hearts to yours,

Cindy (Warner) McQuat and Family

~JENNA BARTELS~
June 7^th 2005

HARRY WAS VERY VERRY KIND AND I WILL MIIIISSSSSSSSS HIM A LOT

KEVIN
June 7^th 2005

i remember the time that harry spent every tuesday in the summer at my house. and on one of thos days harry was running outside to the pool but didn't see the screen door. so he ran right into it and broke it. and the time at his sisters birthday party he put on a thong.

Heather Hough
June 7^th 2005

I'll never forget how proude Harry was of his father. He would look at Joe like he was a super hero! In Harrey's eyes he could do no wrong. He loved talking about girls, how they would cruise around in the jeep. He always made us laugh, about what players he and hs dad were. Joe and Kathy you really raised a great son, you should be very proud how he touched and made everyones life a little brighter! Harry will always be remerberd, from when the sun raises till the sun sets and back again. With much friendship,Heather Jenny

Mollie
June 7^th 2005

WOW! It has been a rough week. I wasnt best friends with Harry, but we were friends. I first met him in 2nd grade when he came to Gilkey. He was always happy, and smiling. When I first heard the news, i didnt believe it. I didnt want to believe it. It was like a bad dream. We need him here, but I guess God needs a great heart like his up ther in Heaven. We all miss Harry alot. One of my best memories was in 5th grade at his Birthday party. Me and Kaitlyn were the only girls. I remember we had a squirtgun fight and jumped on the trampoline. It was great, and Im happy I got to spend that time with Harry. We all will miss him, but Harry, I'll see you in heaven. xoxo

mollie

Trevor Glidden
June 7^th 2005

"Big Joe" I'm very truely sorry for your loss. It's been too many yrs, but felt saddness when I read the paper tuesday night. I hope you raised your son to be a Redskin fan. Take care of your self. Trevor Glidden

Kelly Carrier
June 7^th 2005

Ohhh wow...Harry, what an awesome kid.

I remember whenever him and Matthew would be downstairs and I would be upstairs, I could hear those two laughing so hard! And I would go downstairs and there they would be, cracking up. Harry would be repeating a line from a movie...and he would do a good job at it.

Harry was always making my family laugh. He would be making up his own words, making jokes and just being himself. It was so funny to watch Harry and Matthew fight over the stupidest things. LIke, video games. It was so fun to have Harry at the house. You knew something funny was going to happen.

I'm gunna miss Harry being at the house. Harry was an unbelieveable person.

See ya later Harry.

-Kelly

Kaitlyn VanZile
June 7^th 2005

Dear Harry,

I miss you so much! I think that god picked a GREAT person to come up and help him You were always o loving and caring! You always put others first!

no matter how rich or poor,sador happy,Big skinny, you always were there to make them smile,laugh and have a good time! My mom told me that god took you so you could be mine and all your friends Gardian! I think that too! I beleive that you are watcing ove everyone and that god needed helpwatching over people and he picked you beacuse you were a GREAT person! We all love and miss you Harry! We will never forget you!

Kaitlyn VanZile

Lisa Munn
June 7^th 2005

654ee way Harry had such a big heart and was concerned about everyone else. I have deep admiration for Kathy and Joe Stout they each took time from there pain and talked to Harry's friends to help them with there pain during this painful time. Harry will be missed deeply by everyone that had the pleasure to know this wonderful young man Harry came into Benny's ( Harry's nickname for my son Ben) life when he needed a good friend. Harry was always smiling and happy never had a bad word to say about anything. I loved to watch Harry and Ben play rocket football I would always say " There's Harry a little man among boys" Harry was usally head and shoulders taller then the whole team. Harry would also call Ben Munnster sometimes this was Joe and Harrys nickname for Ben and this is were my e-mail adressed came from Munstermom so I will always have something that reminds me of a very wonderful and loveable young man. Harry the Munnster Family will deeply miss you.

Don, Lisa, Katy, and most of all Benny

Kathleen Boylan
June 7^th 2005

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Stout and sisters,

When I heard about Harry on the sunday after he died I didn't believe it. The Next day at school was so emoitionally and mentally exhausting. I hope in all of my life that plainwell middle school never has another day like that again. I only got to know Harry for a short time before he died. My favorite memory of Harry was when he would always come up to me at lunch and would start talking to me and then he would take out his retainer and it would be dripping with spit and it was pretty gross and he knew it too:^) I think that's why he did it. Harry will be missed by everybody!

-kathleen

Nick blue
June 7^th 2005

Harry was a great person and an amazing friend. I remember whenever i was sad Harry would always make me feel better,sometimes just his smiles made me feel better too. What i really liked about Harry is that he didnt only be nice to the popular people but the unpopular people as well. I remember in fifth grade Harry and I and a few other people went to see the movie Holes. He bought a shovel at the dollar store and it was so funny. He was a very respectful person towards everyone and he was very talented at all the sports he played. I will miss him a lot and everyone will .

Sincerely,

Nick blue

Cecelia Faulkner
June 7^th 2005

I didn't know Harry all too well, I was familiar with Allie and Meryl...but I heard such great things about Harry. There are no words that could express such words of sorrow for Harry. Attending the funeral service really brought out my emotions.

It hits so close to home with him, having a little brother of my own the same age. Losing a sibling is probably the worst of them all, someone you've known all your life, someone you love, someone if you lost, you would lose a part of yourself. With Harry, I think everyone lost a part of them.

Stout family - stay strong, Harry loves you and he will ALWAYS be with you, no matter what. He wouldn't want to see you cry, he would want to see you happy, like his father said, it's the way he would of wanted it.

I'm sorry, very truly and dearly for the loss of Harry. So young, but did so many things that others of an older age have not.

God bless, you're in my prayers.

Tasha McLaughlin
June 7^th 2005

Harry was a good guy even though i didn't hang out with him at all but still when I first found out I cried. TILL THIS DAY FORWARD I WILL NEVER FORGET HARRY J STOUT. I hope Harry will never forget his family and friends.

Harry i love u and I miss you i wish u would still be here today with all of us.

HARRY I HOPE U REST IN PEACE. RIP. WE WILL ALL MISS YOU.

LOVE

TASHA

McLaughlin

Shelby wallace
June 7^th 2005

I dident know him all that well but when i think of him i remember chelsy clevenger at the all school partys last year chasing him down the hall cuz he wouldn't dance for her. and when ever i saw him in the hall he was surrounded by friends and had a big smile on his face. i will always remember him, and i know chelsy will to.

miss you always shelby wallace

Saprena Cox
June 7^th 2005

I remember I used to watch Harry at Repz gym I used to have a mad crush on him. I remember about 2 weeks ago at the Magazine Sale Assembly him his friend Nick was sitting behing my friend Jenelle and Me and he was acting like he was gay and i remember it was the funniest thing ever!! And then when i foiund out he died i couldnt believe it because just a week ago we were laughing and jokin around

Harry I will miss you and just want you to know that you changed my life so much and I will miss you so much I'll miss your smile your laugh and everything about you everytime I think about you I cry I know you wouldnt want that but just thinking your gone just makes me feel bad I miss you!!

Evan Stoddard(couisn and buddy)
June 7^th 2005

Harry

I'm going to miss you a lot and the first thing I will miss most is when ever I would see you you would say to me with a big smile"Evan, come here and give me a hug" and then we would have such a good time together. I'm also going to miss miss you when I spend the night at Aunt Kathys house. I'm still going to spend the night at her house it just will never be the same. I liked it when you made pancakes for me and when we would stay up late mixing special drinks to help keep us awake like the time you mixed chocholate syrup and pop. I remember when we used to take walks on your trails and look at that old car and when we would push each other so high on the tire swing. Remember that? It was fun.

Evan Stoddard continued
June 7^th 2005

I loved playing gi joes with you and that time we stayed up real late to watch the fire truck movie just to keep us awake. Remember when we t-peed ALlies friends when she had a sleep over? 4th of july won't be the same,we always had so much fun togehter. But I will think about you always and will always keep your picture in my room.

DId you see our candles we did for you last night? You will always be my special cousin and buddy. Things won't be the same with out you but I will never forget you. Love Evan.

friend of harry
June 7^th 2005

harry was a great kid. I loved that he loved sports. my memories of harry were at all the varsity girl b-ball games he was always happy with his big smile and made everyone laugh and happy. we will miss harry. there will always be an empty spot in everyone and in the middle school. ali, meryl and mrs. and mr. stout i am so sorry i hope every thing will be ok.

shane
June 7^th 2005

i wish i would have known harry better. my sister is on the b-ball team with ali and i just remember harry always joking,smiling,or laughing. he was a great kid.

shane

Branden
June 7^th 2005

Al, Meryl and parents~

I know that I have only met Harry a few times at the soccer games, but I remember just how funny he was. After one of the games, we were taking the remaining snacks home and Harry was trying to sneak twinkies because he was on the "football diet" and he couldnt have them! You are in my thoughts and prayers and when you get back Allie, we will definately throw welcome back locker party!

BRANDEN

A friend
June 7^th 2005

Stout Family,

You probably don't know me, but my dad, brother, and uncle know you. I can tell by the little they knew you, what a special kid Harry was. My brother is the same age as him, and barely knew him, and was deeply saddened. My dad and uncle can't stop thinking about it, and wanted to send their condolences. I'm very sorry for your loss, and know that now he can look out for you for the rest of your lives.

Marcus Anthonsen
June 7^th 2005

Harry is a very special spirit.

I had the priviledge of knowing Harry through his dad Joe. Harry would come to the office with Joe and in true Harry style make us all laugh.

I am fortunate to have attended Harry's funeral which can be summed up in a few words. A TRUE CELEBRATION OF LIFE. I am proud to know the Stout family and to see such love and strength.

One of my most favorite memories of Harry takes place at Meryl's party. He was the leader of the dance train. I wasn't going to join but how could you say no to Harry? I couldn't so all of the adults including me jumped at Harry's request and danced with him.

What a special young man! What an outstanding family. I love you guys.

Marcus

Jennifer "Rosie" Keyser
June 7^th 2005

I met Harrison when I started working for Joe in January of 1994 at the shop by Maple street. Kathy was taking the girls out shopping or something, and since Harry was still a tiny Harry(if one could ever call Harry tiny at any age), Joe had left him in his carrier and set him on the baker's table in the back.

I remember Joe just standing there in the darkened room, staring at Harrison. The look on his face said, "look at what I created".

Everyone knows that the sun and moon rose in Harrison in Joe's eyes. He was a great kid. It was truely a pleasure to see how much like his dad he was becoming. Aparently, his work here is now finished, for the Lord took him home to do even greater work.

My love and sympathy to the entire Stout family,

Love,

Rosie

Austin Roblyer
June 7^th 2005

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Stout (and sisters)

Wow! This week has been tough for all of us! this memmory goes back all the way to 1st grade. That year I was a football player and I didnt really have a team that I liked. So out of pick I chose Green Bay. When I got to school, the moment I put the suit on, Harry comes up to me and says, "You dont really support them do you?" I reasured him that I was just putting this on as a representation of all football teams. I cannot say this very well but I hope that you are fine and know that you and your family are well loved. Oh and Harry? I must say that I am at least a MSU fan so we dont need to argue about that.

see ya,

Austin

Elizabeth Macklin
June 7^th 2005

Harry wasn't the most well known person in my life, but I could sure pick him out in a crowd. I most remeber Harry in 6th grade band. OUr second full rehersal day (concert day) and Harry was just sitting there. Tallest of all the trumpets. Most definetly unique. That night we were all setting up in the bandroom and people were talking about how nervous they were, Harry just kept saying stuff like "it's just you're parents I think they'll understand if it's not perfect" or "c'mon we've played this a million times" It really helped people the way he was so happy all the time. So many of my friends had all sorts of different memories. Everyone wishing there were more. Harry was an amazing person, and was loved by all.

-Elizabeth

Jessica Bierhalter
June 7^th 2005

Dear Stout Family,

I've been pre-interning in Harry's English class with Mrs. Norey, and I was just beginning to get to know Harry. His name was one of the first of the student's names I learned; he lit up the room as soon as he walked in, not just because of that wonderful smile, but because he shined from within. My best memory of Harry occured when I was leading a lesson for the class in which they acted out parts of a play. Harry was assigned a small part, the part of a waiter. He turned that little part into the most hilarious and greatest part of the whole play and had everyone in the class rolling with laughter. We were all so lucky to know Harry, he truly touched so many lives. My heart genuinely aches for your family, but I admire the amazing strength and spirit you all have shown... There is no question of where Harry got his wonderful qualities from. He was blessed to have been surrounded with so much love, and we will all continue to hold a place for him in our hearts.

~Jessica Bierhalter

Britt Sheets
June 7^th 2005

Harry,

I remember you playing on the sides of the soccer feilds during our Force games. You were so funny. Meryl always had funny stories from you that she would tell me at soccer practice. I will always admire how close you and your sisters are. I have heard so many amazing things about you, you changed many lives. I will miss seeing you with your Dad at the gym and playing basketball at the park.

See you in Heaven.

Love,

Britt Sheets

Tim Grinwis
June 7^th 2005

In Memory of Harrison Stout 11-12-2004

For whatever unknown reason, nature has broken her contract with the Stouts. When you agree to become a parent, nowhere does it say that parents will outlive their children. I have looked for that clause in my own life, and cannot find it. Yet, this has happened again. When Joe asked me if I would be willing to give a speech on behalf of Harry, I quickly said, “I would be honored.” he said “Try and make it up lifting and a celebration of Harry.” In my mind I don’t believe Harry would have wanted it any other way, nor could I have it in my mind to do it differently.

I was fortunate to have been able to spend nine months with Harry when he was in the fifth grade. I am glad it was in the fifth grade, because he measured me up on the first day, putting his hand on the top of my head and said in his crackling pubescent voice, “Your not much taller than me!” and every week afterward he would come and stand next to me to see if he had gained any inches. I stopped letting him do this at the end of May of 2003, because I think he had caught up to me. I enjoyed watching Harry in class, not only was he a good student but he enjoyed school as well. He would always challenge himself to get better scores, but wouldn’t quit when the marks weren’t where he wanted them. Out of school, I watched him develop into a fine basketball player with the Hoopsters on Saturdays and saw his skills explode during football and soccer games at recess. I watched him as I brought out my golf clubs; as he picked them up he seemed to be a natural. During the High School volleyball season; we had a fund raiser of catching volleyballs in clown pants without using your hands, Harry was chosen once and there was nothing funnier than seeing him stuffing all the balls in his pants that he could, not just because he wanted the pizza prize, Harry loved competition. ESPN would have been proud and my wife and I still talk about it.

I have always been impressed with the relationship Harry had with his parents! Though they may have shared different houses, Harry never felt as though he didn’t have a home with them. Seeing Kathy at my various classroom parties, you had the sense of security with Harry. He knew she would be there. I remember thinking why does Harry forget his lunch or his lunch money on a semi-regular basis. If he wasn’t giving away his lunch or money to someone in greater need; I often think it was a way for him to see his parents during the course of the day. Kathy and Joe should be proud of the solid foundation they provide for all their children; which allowed Harry, Allie and Meryl to prosper and shine in life.

Each year, I have a campout behind Gilkey for the fifth graders. One night, I thought I our encampment had been invaded by bears. So, being the leader, I stepped out of my tent and found the Stout’s tent walls being sucked in, almost touching and then blowing apart. I realized it was Joe and Harry, and not some bears from the nature lab. I was quite relived. In the morning over a cup of coffee, Joe said, “It was really Harry!”

Joe and Harry had a long weekend and went to Dallas to watch the Cowboys play live. Harry loved the silver and blue of the Cowboys’. I often kidded him about another Cowboy loss or compared the stats of Cowboy quarterbacks. Harry made me rethink my own philosophies, as he would tell me, “They weren’t losers, they were just non-winners.” Michigan and Michigan State would also be another common topic we shared. Harry would support the Cowboys or Michigan State, no matter what they were going through. Harry was a Spartan or Trojan through and through. Speaking of silver, Harry loved the silver Jeep Joe drove; he told me one day it would be his. I don’t know which I worried more about, the thought that he would be driving or whether the Jeep would be big enough for all the friends Harry would have.

In my classroom I would talk about my life experiences. I had had the opportunity to work for two summers at developmentally disabled and hearing impaired camps. I learned remedial sign language and would teach the students to spell their names. Harry would gobble this up and quickly mastered his name, the alphabet as well as please, thank you and sorry. Harry asked to do this so he might be able to talk to deaf students. He was always thinking about others. I find it fascinatingly ironic that some of Harry’s symptoms in the autopsy were an overly enlarged heart and brain. We didn’t need a pathologist to tell us, for we all knew Harry was smart a as whip and his heart was huge.

So, in closing as I think about Harry and the tremendous impact he has made upon all of you and on my own life; though his body is here, his spirit is making its way around the world. For we all have been fortunate to have been graced by Harrison Stout’s presence in our lives. Let us give him a sign language applause by raising your hands above your heads and shaking your hands and do a sign language cheer.

Peacefully, Mr. Tim Grinwis – Gilkey Elementary School

(Aunt) Brenda Stoddard
June 7^th 2005

Oh Harry ….my special nephew…

Our world came crashing down last Saturday night…nothing else seemed to matter and I thought for sure the whole world had come to a complete stop. But when I went to Trevor’s hockey game on Sunday and was amazed and realized that everyone around me was acting “normal”…I was dumfounded and didn’t understand it then but now know that was my first sign from you that everything will be “ok”.

I have known you all your life. Stating out in your moms tummy. Her and I were pregnant together at the same time for you and Evan (although your moms tummy was a tad bit bigger than mineJ ) Maybe this is one of the reasons you and Evan shared a special bond from the beginning. Evan always felt comfortable around you and wanted to know if you would be with your mom every time I told him we were going to get together with “Aunt Kathy”. You two had a lot in common. Even though you may have shared different views on some things, that didn’t’ matter much, you could still be yourselves, respecting each other with no judging. At family gatherings you would tend to gravitate towards one another. You are side by side in all my pictures. No forced relationship there, just very natural. You always made Trevor feel like he was part of it too, including him in on everything. That was awesome. You loved the way Brendan said HARRY…..Uncle Jim and I enjoyed your hugs, smiles and meaningful conversations. We can still talk Harry……it is just in a different way and at a much different level now.

You love your mom and your mom loves you…no words can describe a mothers love for her son. She would walk the to end of the earth for you, take care of your every need, nurture you, put your best interest first and protect you from harm. You worshiped the ground your Dad walked on and he did the same for yours. He was your idol….now you are his idol. Your sisters would do anything for you and you would do anything for them…you spent so much of your time together being creative.

I was talking to Brendan the other day about you and he said “I know mommy Harry is going to be ok…he has a big heart…but I sill miss him” Funny how a 3 year old can put things in to perspective for us…much like what you have done…..help all of us put things in perspective.

Friday night your cousins out lined your name with candles and Uncle Herbie told your mom “look Kathy…if you take away the bottom lines/slashes of the “R’s”, HARRY becomes HAPPY…how true that is. Another sign from you that we need to be happy and everything will be ok. I know that you are at a different level of happiness that each of us here on earth could ever begin to understand…but I also know that this is what you are trying to help us reach…a certain level of happiness, comfort and peace. I know in time, you will help us get there. The disbelief, ache, confusion and emptiness that we all feel, will continue to heal. As each day brings more tears of joy and happiness and less tears of pain and sorrow.

Another sign of comfort was when the balloons were released after your ceremony I felt a certain warmness and then noticed that there was ONE blue balloon hanging around….on the tree blowing in the wind…..and I thought to my self “HARRY”….….you were right there with us, providing us with a sense of comfort when we needed you.

I’m am already starting to see and feel more and more signs from you and have faith in knowing that although we will always miss you…you will always be with us. We can’t change the fact that your body has been taken away from us….no one can…I know we have all thought of ways to try to do it, but we can’t. I have comfort in knowing your heart, spirit and memories will live on in us forever and that you will continue to inspire us. NO ONE or NOTHING can take that away from us. There will not be a day that goes by that you will not be in our hearts, smiles, prayers and thoughts. As now there is a sense of warmness where ever we go…you can be felt, heard, seen everywhere…..anywhere we want you to be, you are there…..right by our side. Thanks you Harry for everything you have given us.

We love you and love what you have shared with us and know this will never leave us.

Love Aunt Brenda, Uncle Jim, Evan, Trevor and Brendan.

Mari Beth Maurer
June 7^th 2005

Joe, Kathy, Merrill & Allie,

It has been awhile since I have seen any of you but I want you all to know that you are in my thoughts as you struggle with this. I haven't seen Harry since he was small but I am sure that he was wonderful given the family that he was a part of. I'm sorry that his time with you was not nearly long enough.

Mari Beth

Kristen Stratton
June 7^th 2005

Dear Stout Family,

How could I ever forget my 4th grade class at Gilkey El. I was Harry's teacher for the months of November, April, May and June because Joan Whitney was ill. We had a wonderful class and Harry brought a lot of humor to all of us. Not only was he funny, he was also caring and humble. He made sure that we did not forget about Mrs. Whitney. I made sure to give the class up-dates as often as possible.

What I thought to be most striking in regards to Harry was his ability to not allow the world to define him and to not move the way fear may have wanted him to move (especially when you think of 4th grade and the beginning pressures of fitting in). He stood his ground and was always willing to try something new!!

I played my guitar and we sang "I wanna drive the Zamboni" many times that year. There were always those few children singing the chorus with great projection!! Harry being one of them of course.

I feel so blessed that I was a part of Harry's life, if even for a short time. I will forever think of and be moved by his imagination (I think I even have an original Harry story written by him, somewhere in my home. If I find it, I will send it to you), his creativity, his spirit, his humor, his reverence, his compassion and his love for his family and others.

A quote in the rememberance of Harry: He gave his unique gifts to many!

"Each of us as we journey through life, has the opportunity to find and to give his or her unique gift. Whether this gift is quiet or small in the eyes of the world does not matter at all-not at all; It is through the finding and the giving that we may come to know the joy that lies at the center of both the dark times and the light" -Helen M. Luke in Kaleidescope-

Thank you to the Stout Family for bringing Harry into the world, for raising him the way that you did.

May prayerful peace flow outward from here touching with grace all those you love and earth as well.

Miss Stratton

Joe Stout
June 7^th 2005

Hey Everyone,

I just wanted to send out a quick note to let you know how much our entire family has appreciated the amazing support we have received over the past nine days.

I can assure you that everything………….difficult and inspiring have been nothing short of indescribable.

Today our family moves forward with heavy hearts, yet we all know that approaching each moment with amazement and appreciation is what Harry expected…… and we will honor his life and what he meant to us every day.

Harry’s service on Friday was typical of his inspiration. There were over 800 in people in attendance in the Middle School gym where Harry had been playing basketball just one week earlier. It was the first time a service had ever taken place in the gym and I know Harry would have thought it was “cool.” The Kalamazoo newspaper made our son front page news on Saturday…something else Harry would have been amazed with. http://www.mlive.com/search/index.ssf?/base/news-11/1100344814203560.xml?kzgazette?NEKP

Our family knew the last thing Harry would have wanted was for his friends and family to remember him with sorrow, therefore his service was filled with laughter and stories of how he touched the lives of so many people in a remarkably short period of time. I can’t begin to describe the sensation of walking out of the gym and down the hallway to the parking lot that Harry and I had walked so many times together. In the background we could hear 800 people clapping and chanting Harry!, Harry!, Harry!.

Once the crowd had assembled outside the building over 200 blue and white balloons were released in to the cloudless blue sky…………drifting away so peacefully……..so beautifully.

Our family will miss him every day and I know that over time the pain will be less frequent and that we will all move closer to remembering who we are.

Below is a copy of the closing comments we shared with our friends and family last Friday.

Again, thank you so very much for your words, prayers and concern as it has meant so much to us.

Your friend,

Joe

It’s of little surprise to me that the bridge was re-opened yesterday. It serves as a reminder and a sign for all that is and will be.

For the past year I thought my life was being inconvenienced by having to take an extended route to town and the school. Today I see it as amazing blessing that it gave Harry and me to enjoy more time together.

It also tells us that life goes on and that we all must go back to our lives and move forward.

It is no coincidence that the bridge spans a river that continues to flow, effortlessly and naturally….reminding us that life was never meant to be a struggle.

I see the leaves that have fallen from the trees and yes, the leaves Harry despised raking each fall. The leaves have died but the tree lives on giving us air to breath and shade on those hot summer days that will again arrive before we know it. In the spring the leaves will return, again showing the beautiful and never ending cycle of life.

God grants us all with choices and the greatest of all is embracing the now…the moment…it’s all that truly is. The illusion of time will fool us and our egos will do their very best to prevent us from experiencing the joy that is so divine and so incredibly perfect.

It would be easy to leave this gymnasium today and hang our heads and think of our loss.

I however will choose to think of the amazing gift I have been granted for knowing and loving such an amazing soul. One that has transformed my life and provided me with so much joy. 12-years that I will never, ever be ungrateful for and 12-years that I know touched so many others lives.

We can all take from this day and the time that we spent with Harry to transform our lives and others as well. I have had many conversations with Harry’s classmates about how important it will be for them to share his big, goofy smile with others, to tell a dumb joke and try to lift someone spirits.

To think not of what we can take…………. but what we can give.

This was Harry.

We all know it and we can take everything he gave us and share it forever. We can allow the love that is in all of us to come forward at every moment and each expression of that love will be a sign of Harry’s life and love.

I will miss Harry so much and I know all of you will too. He is the best friend, the Grandson, the nephew, the loving son and the little brother we all loved so dearly and in my heart that will never ever change.

I know Harry is with us now….I can feel him and if I close my eyes I can see that smile of his beaming over what is happening today. I can hear him saying “cool-lee-ewleoe” and I can see him pump his fist.

He wants all of you to know that he loves you and he wants all of you to continue your own journey of remembering who you are.

He is where he chooses to be and I will look forward to laughing with him again.

Marla & Timm Finfrock
June 7^th 2005

Dear Joe & the Stout Family:

We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news last week that you had lost your son. You have been in our thoughts and prayers ever since. Although we wanted to come to the funeral, time, distance, and circumstances just did not allow it.

Obviously, we didn't know Harrison personally. But after spending the past two+ hours reading the "Memories" pages for/of him, I can tell what a truly special, exceptional person he was. Talented and gifted in so many areas, a great athlete, a great friend to all who knew him, a great son, and always, that great positive attitude and big smile! It is very apparent that he touched the lives of everyone he came in contact with, and that this world is a much better place for him having been part of it.

We extend to you our very deepest sympathy. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Your friends--

Marla & Timm Finfrock

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Harrison Stout

May 20th 1992 - Nov 6th 2004

Life Story Funeral Homes - Rupert, Durham, Marshall & Gren