I don’t remember a lot of specific memories with Rad, but what I do remember is the feeling when he was around. Warm, joyous, and an overall good time. When I think of Rad, I think of myself walking into a high school class and being disappointed when I realized I didn’t have any friends walking in after me, but finding comfort that he was there. The reason being because I knew he would bring laughs and smiles for 55 minutes, where had he not been there I would be bored and honestly a little awkward. My friends would ask me at lunch, “how’s your English class?” and my response would be “well I have no friends but at least Rads in the class,” and every friend would nod in complete understanding.
Rad was someone to look up to, no matter if you were older, younger, or the same age as he. He lived life to the fullest every day. I’m so grateful to have known him and to be able to remember and speak of him. He inspired people to love yourself, love Mother Nature, and love your your community.