Memories and Thoughts

Hi Everyone
Thanks for all your thoughts and memories on this page. Unfortunately it has got to the stage that unpleasant auto-posting is forcing us to close this as an open posting page. If you would like to post something, send it to John on mail [at] johngerrard [dot] net and he will put it up for you.
xx Charlie's Family.

Any of Charlies friends who would like to, are welcome to come to lunch with the family on Friday 17th March 2006 at 1pm. We will plant some trees in his memory.

We hope you will join us, our family and friends.
With love
Mide and Peter Gerrard

Leserragh House
Coolbawn
Nenagh
Co Tipperary

tel +353 6728008
mob +353 87 7800144
midegerrard (at) eircom (dot) net

Last Sunday some 50 people gathered to remember Charlie in Terryglass. it is
so heartening to us, his family to see so many remembering him with love and
affection. We thank you all for coming and for helping us so much by your
standing beside us. Thank you for all the flowers and gifts but most
especially for coming to see us, and to remember Charlie with us. Also we
are very grateful for all the messages from those who could not come on the
day, and to those who come to see us at other times.
Peter and Mide and family.

Leserragh House
Coolbawn
Nenagh
Co Tipperary

Remembering Charlie 2005

We will have a Memorial for Charlie in Terryglass Church on the 13th of March 2005 starting at 12.30 on that Sunday with lunch afterwards in Leserragh. This is to remember Charlie and also to thank all the people who have been in touch by phone and email and who have come to see us.

Since our first Memorial for Charlie in 2004 public notice has increasingly focused on these tragedies; are we any nearer to understanding?

We hope you will join us, our family and friends.
With love
Mide and Peter Gerrard
Leserragh House
Coolbawn
Nenagh
Co Tipperary

tel +353 6728008
mob +353 87 7800144
fax +353 6728150
midegerrard (at) eircom (dot) net

Dublin tel +353 1 4973415

Darling Charlie, I'm thinking of you especially, since I am on my version of the 'Big Trip' that you took with Jamie. You went down the coast of Africa, and I'm scooting around the coast of India. Let's see how far I get! The photo of you with the pineapple is one taken of you in Africa, I don't know where, but you look so brown and healthy and happy, it makes me happy to look at it. I'm getting a little brown too, but nowhere near your level of tan. Miss you lots, wish you could be there to hear my travel news. xx A
Ailbhe
- Thursday, February 03, 2005

I miss you and sometimes I don't know when it will end. It's another New Year without you, but even in your death I have learned a lot about life. For that I thank you everyday. I hope you are well wherever you are. I guess one can hold onto hope that heaven is a place of magic. You were heavenly. All my best to your family that I have never met. But I wish all of Charlies friends and family good health and lots of happiness in the new year!! xoxo
A friend
- Sunday, January 02, 2005

Charlie, another New Year's eve, nearly, and I wish you were here and hope you are somewhere much better seeing as you aren't here. Anyhow before the tears start in earnest love you loads and missing you this time of year. As always, yours, Ama x x x
Amal
- Thursday, December 30, 2004

Hi Charlie. I am spending this Christmas in Tipperary. Wish you were there. You always made me smile and feel well. Lots of love. Cesar
Cesar <indaloolmedo@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Wednesday, December 22, 2004

hey Charlie, its nearly christmas again.. everything goes so fast these days. We celebrated your birthday with Esties in 91 which was fun, don't believe Esty when she says shes older and wiser now! I think they were dancing until 5 which is exactly what you would have been doing too. I'm going to Kims for christmas day, can't believe that it is my first christmas away from home ever and next Christmas Kim and I will have a little 6 month old baby! everyone is so excited and I know that you would be too, keep an eye on all of us, love love Morwenna xxxxx
Morwenna
- Tuesday, December 21, 2004

Dearest Charlie, was thinking of you on your birthday, I had a party for mine which was really fun, lots of people came and danced and some of your friends too which was really good, everyone a bit older and more mature now. I only wish you could have been there and could still be here everyday to enjoy all the little things. All my love Esther xxx
Esther
Dublin, - Friday, December 03, 2004

Happy Birthday Charlie, Sorry its late. Thinking of you always
Richie
Dublin, - Thursday, December 02, 2004

Happy bithday charlie! We all miss you!!!
Nina <Nina-Ring@gmx.de>
Munich, Germany - Sunday, November 28, 2004

Charlie,we are always thinking of you and missing you, especially on your birthday. It s still hard to believe that you are frozen forever at 23, while we all go on and change. One thing that doesn t change though is how much we miss you, with all my love Cathy
Cathy
Dublin, - Saturday, November 27, 2004

Happy Birthday to Charlie, We miss him and think about him all the time, xx Joy
joy <joygerrard@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, November 27, 2004

Hallo Charlie. Just to let you know missing you so much and think about you all the time. Bisous, Amal x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Amal <lapetitebelle@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Monday, November 22, 2004

Dear Family, Charlie's birthday falls the day after our big holiday of Thanksgiving this year, so I'm writing a line now in anticipation of being unable to on the day... tired, hungover, having another party, whatever. We are a little older and would like to be a lot wiser about life. The Gerrard family has joyous events to look forward to, which makes me so happy, and not because of the parties. No, I'm not going to jump the gun here, everyone will have to get in touch or read a message. Charlie's time working in New York - I would not have dreamed so many people would write,and visit, though hesitant and the difficulty in expressing so much sorrow and loss. I think he must have been a great success and hope he knew it. With much love to Charlie still, and to each and everyone Geraldine
Auntie G <geraldine_mitchell@hotmail.com>
Seattle, Washington USA - Monday, November 22, 2004

Strange how the world is not the same without you. You mean so much to so many. Even though the tears are not so frequent, my broken heart still misses you the day it did when I heard that you were gone. You are always in my thoughts. Keep watching over us xxx
A friend
- Thursday, October 28, 2004

Charlie, I know I haven't written yet but it's because I still don't know what to say. I was talking to a friend last night who had just lost a friend in the same way that we lost you. I just felt so desperately sad for her and all the family and yet I still couldn't say a word of consolation because I still can't find the words. I wanted to tell her that it gets easier, but it doesn't, I still miss you as much as I did the day you left. More than anything,I hope your happy and maybe I'll see you again one day.. xxxx
Julie
- Tuesday, October 05, 2004

Missing you like always. Thank you for giving me some great memories, and wonderful moments to treasure. To the Gerrards although time is moving on you will always be in my thoughts. Charlie was a wonderful person and even if the days go on I will never forget him. Thank you for having a place to visit his smile. Just when the memories seem to fade I can glance her and remember all of the times we spent together. xoxo Kate
Kate
- Sunday, September 19, 2004

Charlie, I miss you and so wish you could still be here. That will never change.
a
- Thursday, September 16, 2004

hey Charlie, I'm just finishing up my last day of work for the summer and have some time so I thought I would just write something becuase I haven't yet. I've been working away as a student architect and having a great time, really interesting and good fun. There is a guy sitting accoss from me called Hugo, he is 24 and just going into 5th year and we sit across from each other and chat and it makes me miss you so much. I wish you were here. Kim and I are going down to the electric picnic festival tomorrow, Groove Armada and 2 many djs are playing and that makes me miss you too, I wish you were going to be there, and we could bump into each other and then chat about it afterwards. I wish lots of things, I think you would laugh at me starting off into 2nd year in ucd, I wish you were here to do it and everything else love Morwenna
Morwenna <morwenna44@yahoo.co.uk>
- Friday, September 03, 2004

To Peter and Mide and the Gerrard family, I would like to offer my sincere sympathy and to let you know that as a member of Living Links North Tipperary, which offers outreach support to families bereaved by suicide, I, together with other volunteers, am always available to provide a listening/support service. I did not have the privilege of knowing Charlie, but, it is obvious from the many tributes paid to him that he was a very popular and valued friend by all who had that privilege. May he rest in peace. Michael Egan. 19th August, 2004
Michael Egan <mgegan@eircom.net>
Puckane, Tipperary Ireland - Wednesday, August 18, 2004

Missing you this summer and always!
KC
- Wednesday, August 11, 2004

Hey Charles- Haven't taken the time to write. I see that some people are starting to revisit again. It's been a strange time indeed, but I feel sometimes you are around at moments when I'm thinking of you. Strange things will happen, or I will see someone that looks like you. I know it's weird, but it's also kind of comforting in a way. Knowing that some angel is looking out for you. I never really believed in that stuff before. People would tell me how they could feel the energy of others who have passed. I always thought they were crazy, but I can feel your energy at times. I miss you. I guess it just takes time to forget the pain, and remember you the way you were--beautiful.
A Friend
- Friday, August 06, 2004

Charlie- So it's been said that I miss you, but I wonder if you know. It's so weird how we only lived together for a short amount of time, but we had so much in common. We became instant friends. I just found this letter you wrote me, and I kind of find it bittersweet. You were encouraging me to find my passions again, to keep going after the knocks. It's true. Life gets hard and confusing when you are in your twenties. Nothing is mapped out anymore. It's up to us to figure it out. I wanted to move to Ireland when I was in London, but you know I had to come home because of September 11th and I was so upset to not be travelling. You told me it all happened for a reason. If I did move to Ireland I would never have met you, and I would never have gone through this pain, but I would also never have dealt with everything I was forced to face when you died. It's weird because now, two summers later I am still figuring everything out, but in a healthy way. My documentary that you proclaimed to love is getting picked up, and I'm trying to find a way to move to Ireland finally. Your family has been this amazing force in my life. They might not know how they have helped me, and you might have thought it was weird that I became close with your sisters and Jonnie. But I have, and I really treasure their emails, and I treasure last summer when I came to visit. I wonder if this website is a place to write to you when people are thinking about you, but I love the fact that I can come and see your face. Of course I miss you, but the pain has subsided a little bit, and I think you would be proud of the course my life has taken. Charlie you were such an AMAZING person in my life, and I don't think I will ever stop missing you, although some people think it's weird that I miss someone I only knew for a short amount of time. But if you were here I know you could explain the intensity of your time in NYC. I love you Charlie, and I hope that all my dreams will come true, all those things we've talked about in the past, and all those things you really believed in. My talents, my film, my way with people. I'm trying so hard to keep going. If only for what you taught me, and how much you cared about me. You are one of the good soles, and I miss you everyday. To all of Charlie's friends who are still feeling lost on days just think of how you can make a change for good in this world. That's what Charlie would want. We can all remember him and smile, and I think that at htis point in time we must. We must all move on for the better for Charlie's sake.
Amy
- Thursday, August 05, 2004

Missing you. haven't said it here yet. I guess you know anyway. warm huggs from planet earth, charlie xxC
Cécile <mail@cecilegirardin.com>
Barcelona, Spain - Wednesday, July 21, 2004

Hi All. Any suggestions for a links page that better reflects Charlies many interests ? ..... ie all the stuff he loved ... like travel, music, snowboarding etc etc. All suggestions welcome - please mail them to me on mail (at) johngerrard.net
Thanks xx John
John <mail@johngerrard.net>
Dublin, Ireland - Thursday, June 17, 2004

Hey Gerri, It s taken me a long time to find the courage to come to the site. Reading everyones memories of you and sharing all of the great experiences we shared with you just reminds me what an amazing person you are. I can t tell you how much we all loved you. I just wish you would have shared your trouble with us. I still can t believe your gone and it s been over a year already, but I m sure where ever you are you're looking after everybody. Ill never forget all the good times we had together. I know you'll be with us always. Mar
Mar
London, - Tuesday, June 15, 2004

Missing you today, as always. I hope you're watching over us all, and laughing along with all the silly things we do. All my love to you, and to all your family...x
Dawn <dawneccles@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Thursday, June 03, 2004

Darling Charlie,It is my second birthday without you. I hardly remember the birthdays I had before you arrived. But I do remember you arriving home in November - all tiny and wrapped up in a blanket with your little dark curls. The only dark haired sibling in among all the redheads! I so wish you were here now.
Ailbhe Gerrard
- Wednesday, May 12, 2004

Hi Charlie, Im really sorry I couldnt make it down to Tipp to meet your family and tell them what a great guy I thought you were. Hopefully some day soon I'll be able to pluck up the courage and come and visit you. Thinking about you always. Take care
Richie <richie021@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland - Thursday, March 18, 2004

Hi Charlie, Really sorry I could not make it down to visit your grave and your family this St. Patricks day. Still think about you every day and the fabulous times we had with the rest of the lads in New York. I treasure each and exery one. Your mate always, Johnny
Johnny <johnnyc123@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland - Thursday, March 18, 2004

I thought it impossible to try and write something here about Charlie - where to start? But then I read everyone elses messages and realised what a lot they really do mean. I remember when Charlie was born, when he used to run around in tights, his fascination with lighters! I remember when he used to visit 91 with Mide and Peter when everyone else had left for school and college. And then I remember coming home from 8 months in Russia, and Charlie coming to open the door at Lesseragh - a big, tall, handsome guy with a deep voice! I didn't see so much of Charlie in recent years, now that we are all 'grown up' and leading our own lives. When I heard his friends talking at the funeral and read the messages below I realised that there was so much I didn't know about him. But he is part of the Gerrard family, who I know and love for so long, and I thought he'd always be here. In a way I do believe he will always be here, and know that he will not ever be forgotten by any of us.
Jessie Castle Metlitski <jessie@jca.ie>
Cork, - Thursday, March 18, 2004

Hi Charlie, cant believe a whole year has gone by.. Was really sorry not to be able to make it to, what i heard was a big gathering, at your house today. My thoughts and feelings are with all the Gerrard family during this difficult Paddy's week. Hope everything has gone as smoothly as you could have hoped for.. Miss you Charlie xx
Ross <rmc_dowell@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Wednesday, March 17, 2004

We've just had a memorial service for Charlie today. It was a beautiful day and with lots of love and emotion. We all still miss him terribly. This is what I said at the service: It's been one whole year since Charlie left us and today a year ago was his last day alive. It's been a year of intense grieving and also times of real happiness and appreciation of life, now, a year on, I feel that I can start to foget a little the manner of Charlie's death and remember more and more how wonderful he was in life. I'd like to start telling jokes about the silly and fabulous things that he did and talk about just how great he was. I know that we'll carry him with us forever. A year is a short time but I'd like to feel that we've all achieved something this year and can now look forward to the next with more joy and happiness in our hearts.
Joy and Charlie's family <joygerrard@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, March 17, 2004

Dear Charlie, we feel the loss of you very deeply for we really loved you. Thinking of you and your lovely family- not only today.
Holger,Lilo,Nina, Axel,Dani <Nina-Ring@gmx.de>
Munich, Germany - Tuesday, March 16, 2004

I have found myself lingering on this page over the last year wondering when I would have courage to write something, or if I had the words to express the terriable pain I've been in. I am no closer to understanding what happened than I was a year ago. The thing about Charlie is everyone that met him truly loved him, and it is clear on these pages what a magical impression he made. If you look at the messages they are from all around the world. Friends in New York, London, Germany. I don't know what exactly it was about Charlie that made you fall in love with him, but he was the kind of person that lit up a room. He really catered to the sensitivity of others, and always looked after everyone else. It's just so sad that he wasn't able to see inside himself what everyone else saw. I wish I could have helped Charlie, but this tragedy can not be undone, and a year later we are all still trying to come to terms with such a huge loss.
a friend
- Tuesday, March 16, 2004

Dear charlie, All my thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and your friends this st. patrick's week.I cant believe its been a year. I thought it would get easier but Im afraid I was wrong. Its amazing how much life has changed since you left. Look after us all this st. patricks day buddy. Thinking of you.
A friend
Dublin, Ireland - Tuesday, March 16, 2004

I miss you Charlie. The memories, oh yes they were some of the best. Bar One, and all the good looking Girls! Your room mate. Ozzie
Ozzie
New York, - Monday, March 15, 2004

Dear Charlie, Guess everyone's thinking of you just now - but I just wanted to let you know that my thoughts (& love) are with you and the family especially strong at the mo. Wish you were here.
Tom <tom@uglow.co.uk>
London, - Monday, March 15, 2004

A ceremony for Charlie. On the 17th March Wednesday at 12.30,the family will be in Terryglass Church to remember our dear Charlie. We hope that any of his friends who would like to be with us will come to the Church and afterwards to the house for lunch. Thank you all for these messages, they have been a great comfort to us.
Peter and Mide <midegerrard@eircom.net>
- Monday, March 08, 2004

Charlie,Still missing you awfully. Will get up courage soon to make it down to your grave I promise. With Love. Amal x x x x x x x x x x x
Amal <lapetitebelle@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Monday, March 01, 2004

charlie it is of no surprise to me to your memory lives on here. however even clearer than ever is how your memory still remains so strong within the people who were lucky enough to know you. I for one will never forget the good times and the great sessions...still thinking of you and your family.
a friend <wolfey@eircom.net>
sydney, australia - Monday, March 01, 2004

I was just thinking the other day of some of the times we were all out in NY - The night we were all sitting up on the brass bull on Broadway, the day we played volleyball on long beach.... I didn't know you all that long but you made an everlasting impression. An absolute gentleman, It is a pleasure to have known you. They say God always takes the good and without a doubt he took the best. Thinking of you, Colm
Colm O'Neill <colmmcneill@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Monday, February 16, 2004

To all Charlie's friends, we are thinking of you, especially as Charlie's anniversary approaches. We intend to have a remembrance for Charlie around St. Patrick's Day, and hope to see you. If you are lonely, and finding things difficult, you will find a sympathetic ear at these numbers: (Mide and Peter in Tipperary - 067 28008; Joy, Esther and Ailbhe in 91 - 01 4973415. John in Canada - mail@johngerrard.net)With love and thanks from Charlie's family.
Charlie's Family
- Thursday, February 12, 2004

Its been a while Charlie since Ive read these memories. Its February now and its bitterly cold, I often think of you when Im out walking, how sad it is for all of us that you are not here. It seems like the worst of nightmares that I cant wake up from, my only escape is to think of the fun times we all shared and to take comfort in the fact that you have gone to a better place. miss you always.
A friend
Dublin, - Monday, February 09, 2004

I found myself thinking of you Charlie, having been around some members of your wonderful family recently. You're still missed, and your family is still wonderful. Richard
Richard <richard@ideasgarden.com>
Dublin, Dublin Ireland - Monday, January 19, 2004

Dear Charlie, I'm looking forward to come to Ireland in August,to go to your grave and to see your family again! I often think of you!!! Take care, xxx, Nina
Nina <Nina-Ring@gmx.de>
Munich, Germany - Saturday, January 17, 2004

Dear Charlie, It's the start of a new year - lots of hope and planning for me, and sadness that you are not here to share. Lots of love, Ailbhe
Ailbhe Gerrard
- Tuesday, January 06, 2004

"Gone but not forgotton"... Miss u loads.. Happy belated Birthday, Hugs n Kisses... Joanna xxx
Joanna <0879858422@vodafone.ie>
Dublin, - Monday, January 05, 2004

Remembering Charlie: I was thinking of him when I sent out Christmas letters, and included this site address. Maureen, Vitali, Siobhan, even Henry aged five, remember you with so much love this Christmas. Andrei will hear more later. He had his third birthday yesterday.Charlie's photo is up, the copy of "The Hobbit" inscribed by him is treasured. Life is more precious because we see how you inspired everyone. Sorry to have taken a while to write. Bless you. Thank you John and everyone for putting up the site. love Geraldine & Andy
Geraldine (auntie) <geraldine_mitchell@hotmail.com>
Seattle, USA - Saturday, December 27, 2003

Charlie , was just flicking through some photographs of a of a trip to tipperary with esther and your family and there you are lighting up every photo with that beautiful smile of yours, so sad it is lost to this world now....... never got a chance to thankyou for being so nice to me on the phone last christmas ,i always enjoyed our chats and was very fond of you little charlie .... wish you a merry christmas wherever you are ..... all my love martin x
martin <martinwadethomas@hotmail.com>
London, - Thursday, December 25, 2003

Hey Charlie! Has been a long time since I have sat down to read all your little letters from around the world! A belated Happy Birthday to you! Haven't stopped thinking about you and some of the really memorable times that all of us had together. Of all the people I have talked to, everyone, without exception has a good thing to say about you. Just to let you know, everyone is thinking about you! Happy Christmas to you and all the rest of the family.
Richie <moorer@tcd.ie>
Kildare - Monday, December 22, 2003

Charlie, I was just thinking today about people the World is a sorrier place without, and you are most definitely one of them. I'm sure that even though you can't be with your family for Christmas you'll make your sunny presence felt. Lots of love to all the Gerrards, Becsx
Becs <rebeccahbmiller@yahoo.co.uk>
Paris, - Thursday, December 18, 2003

Charlie,i wish i had your eloquent way with words,i now treasure more than ever your lovely letter to me and every single memory i have gets replayed a thousand times and more,keep an eye on all our friends, love always oonaghxxx
oonagh <nooxxx@hotmail.com>
- Monday, December 15, 2003

Charlie- I think of you often, and everytime Rod comes on the radio I can't help but laugh at the many nights of dancing in the Burgh. I want to thank everyone who took me in when I came out to Ireland in August. It was a hard trip to take, but I came away feeling so loved. Charlie came from a beautiful family, and a wonderful home. Happy Birthday my friend, I miss you always. Love, Amy
Amy Witting <witting@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, November 29, 2003

Charlie, I'm in New York.... I arrived yesterday on your birthday, the day after mine. I miss you everyday and wish you could be here to celebrate our birthdays together like we always said we would. xxx e
Esther <esty_ger@yahoo.co.uk>
- Friday, November 28, 2003

Charlie, today is the brightest bluest day, it's your birthday and I wish more than anything else that you could be here to see the bright blue sky and the sunshine on the water. But you are gone. We think of you all the time and we miss you so so much, people say that this keeps your memory alive, and it does, but if only you could be here, yourself, smiling the way we all remember you. With all of my love on your birthday from your sister Cathy
Cathy Gerrard <cathygerrard@eircom.net>
- Thursday, November 27, 2003

You are always in my thoughts Charlie. My heart is with your family too. Happy Birthday. All my love, Dawn xxx
Dawn Eccles <dawneccles@hotmail.com>
sydney, Australia - Wednesday, November 26, 2003

we are all thinking about you Chazzer coming up to your birthday - we miss you every single day. x J
john gerrard <mail@johngerrard.net>
- Wednesday, November 26, 2003

Ciao Charlie, cannot stop to think about you every time i see a wild flower, a sincere smile, a joung guy walking... Dublin will never be the same for me without you opening the door at 91 saying: "hello lolli!" I will never stop to love you as a young brother. ciao and big hugs to all the Gerrards
lolli <loredana_dn@ciaoweb.it>
Turin, Italy - Wednesday, October 08, 2003

Charlie, I am sure you were smiling at us all as we joined Morwenna and Kim to celebrate their marriage on Saturday. I felt you with us all the time. Gay
Gay <gayveale@eircom.net>
- Monday, September 01, 2003

Charlie,I'm so sorry that I couldn't come to your funeral (but I was in Australia at that time)!You are such a wonderful person -even I haven't seen you much in the last years, you meant a lot to me!! Hope you are fine wherever you are!I'm sure we all will see us again sometime-somewhere! xx, Nina
Nina <Nina-Ring@gmx.de>
Munich, Germany - Sunday, August 17, 2003

Hey Charlie,Just finished my travels for this year and thought of you often when having good times with good friends - it is the smiling thing that reminds me of you.
Amal <lapetitebelle@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Friday, July 25, 2003

Charlie, Although we only met in college, you certainly made an impact..your the only guy I know who could make repeating exams in the summer fun!! Thank you for getting me through them and so much more like the infamous Arts Ball night.. what fun we had!! Love always Caz xx
Caroline <cazzasomers@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, July 08, 2003

Charlie, everytime I pass the Petrol station in Sandford Road I think of you (and many other times too) and the warm and spontaneous invitation to accompany you back to 91. You made everyone feel so good. Even us oldies! I miss your shining light Gay
Gay <gayveale@eircom.net>
Dublin, Ireland - Wednesday, July 02, 2003

The smile that beamed from his face inspired all around to join the group grin! I miss ya Charlie! I raise a glass in your honour! Cheers! Love, Sean
Sean O'Reilly <nycdublinsean@yahoo.com>
Dublin, - Thursday, June 12, 2003

I have been meaning to write something for ages, and there is a long one coming up!, I just wanted to say how much I appreciate reading the lovely memories that you are all putting on the site. I visit the site often, to look at the images or read some of the poems in the readings section, and I really love seeing a new entry from one of Charlies friends, so thank you! love Joy (one of Charlies sisters)
joy gerrard
- Friday, May 23, 2003

Charlie my dear, where do I start? It has been so hard to find fitting words for someone so special. Having you in our house this past fall was probably one of the best experiences I have had here. Cooking croutons for the ceasar salad, teaching you to dance to hip-hop, endless hours of conversation, thoughtful advice, a supportive ear, a warm smile and the biggest heart I have ever seen. The brief time we spent together will never be forgotten. We miss you! Hopefully you are reading this somewhere, smiling and knowing that we are always smiling for you.
Dena <denagayle@hotmail.com>
New York, New York United States - Thursday, May 22, 2003

Hey Charlie, I have taken my time, didn't know what to say, still don't really and then was watching a movie the other night and there was a lovely poem (in a silly romantic woody allen moment but still ) and the last line made me think of you. " And not even the rain has such small hands...." I miss you. Ama x x x
Amal <lapetitebelle@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland - Tuesday, May 20, 2003

I feel such love and anger, sadness and despair when I think about you now, Charlie. You were on my mind the day you died I was thinking how much fun it must be to be in Dublin on St. Patrick's day, thinking of how we hadn't been in touch for a while and I should really write or maybe figure out a way to visit you I first met you through your sisters and brother, who'd talk about you when they came to New York through the years--each one more fun and fair angelic than the next. And then you showed up at my door and were a truly jolly friend, a swell pal, a ray of light. I loved how my name sounded when you said it, and how nice it was to hear your voice on my voice-mail, calling for no other reason than just to say "hi." The day on the Coney Island beach with your "blokes" was one I'll never forget--swimming and drinking beer and eating ice cream while the mermaid parade dispersed around us. You helped me pick out a flying plastic pig with wings for a friend s birthday. I don't know if there is a heaven--I think they're might just be this life, sprinkled with a few heavenly days like that one. And lately, every time I have a great meal or a good laugh or I get a big hug or see a clear sky, I think of you and feel sad--and angry--that you can no longer live these things too. To the Gerrards: my thoughts are with you. Annie
Anna Jane Grossman <ajgrossman@observer.com>
New York , NY USA - Thursday, May 15, 2003

Love is a powerful emotion Friendship is a precious gift Laughter is a strong devotion A smile is an Angel's kiss Your warmth was overflowing Your tenderness is felt today Although you are in Heaven You are with us in every way Dear Charlie- Not one day goes by where I don t think about you and your wonderful smile. Thank you for all the delicious meals, pool games, late night conversations, and always believing in me. I promise I will never let you down. I miss you Charlie, and will never forget you. You will always hold a very special place in my heart. Love Amy
Amy <Witting@hotmail.com>
Brooklyn, NY, - Tuesday, May 13, 2003

Dearest Charlie,You always were an angel.Thank you for the fun memories and happy days.I'm so glad I was lucky enough to be your friend.You will always be in my heart,missing you Clare
Clare Kiely <clarekiely@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Tuesday, May 13, 2003

Dear Charlie, you were one hell of a nice guy. You were deep, you were funny, you were quirky and always up for a mad laugh! No one was left out when you were around...you cared for others. I'll be seeing you again Charlie. XXX Gael
Gael Guckian <gaelguckian@hotmail.com>
l, Leitrim Ireland - Saturday, May 10, 2003

Dear Charlie, I never met you, but I salute you. Anyone who can cook Thai green chicken curry is allright in my book. You look like the embodiment of Tremendous Fun. So here's to you, and big big love to your family.
Matt Parker <matt.parker1@btinternet.com>
London, UK - Thursday, May 08, 2003

Charlie - I am the worst chef in the world but for my 21st you gave me the fantastic present of a beautiful cook book (which I'm so glad you inscribed) and because of you I will now face the challenge of learning how to cook.. so thank you for inspiring me. I hope Rossa is looking after you up there and that the two of you aren't getting up to too much mischief!. I love you and miss you, take care, jen xxx
Jennie <jenniehodgson@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Wednesday, May 07, 2003

Charlie, thank you for all the great memories, the wonderful parties, the mulled wine, and the cups of tea. Thank you for your warm smiles, for always being yourself, for being such a gentleman, and most of all for giving me some of your precious time. I have so many fond memories of you, but the one that I cherish most is that freezing night last November when we went to see David Gray. We had so much fun that night, and I remember every detail of it right down to what you were wearing and the things that you said. That s the only Charlie I know, and it is how I will always remember you all smiles and laughter. Miss you Charlie. Dawn x
Dawn <dawneccles@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Ireland - Monday, May 05, 2003

Charlie, There's not a day that goes by that I dont think about you. Thanks for all the good times and smiles that you made. Your mate always, Johnny
Johnny Cooney <johnnyc123@hotmail.com>
Dublin, Dublin Ireland - Sunday, May 04, 2003

Charlie, A friend told me that now that you have left us, all of us here have a very special angle up there looking after us and I know he is right.
Rita Kirwan <ritakirwan@hotmail.com>
Chicago, - Sunday, May 04, 2003

After making this site for Charlie I spent a little time wondering why I had, perhaps it was just trying to keep Charlie around for a little longer and maybe a little pointless. But now it is up and people are writing and letting me know that it is helpful, I think it is a good thing. While writing to a friend of Charlie s from NY I also realised that there was so much to Charlie - so much fun and love and happiness - that I did not want him just to vanish so - for as long as I can, I will maintain the site so we can visit his big smile and his lovely friendly presence, no matter where we are in the world, and that is definitely a good thing. It is really nice to see thoughts and memories flowing into this site from the world outside. I think perhaps that none of us realised that Charlie was having as tough a time as he was having, he was very private and paradoxically quite reserved, despite his amazing sociability. I think that this posting section is someplace where we can all let each other know how we are feeling, even the strongest among us, and in the end, we can all feel a little less alone with this. I did not speak about Charlie at his funeral, our Dad did, and he made a wonderful eulogy. But I also want to add a big THANK YOU to that eulogy, a big THANK YOU for the many many many kindnesses that Charlie gave to me, to his sisters, to our parents and to his many friends. Charlie you were so good to me, and helped me unstintingly so often, frequently in the midst of me carrying on and freaking out. You supported by quietly doing, by helping and by just getting to. It was one of your many many good qualities. I cannot envisage having a show in 91 without your help !! (although, I think, after the last one, perhaps you were ready to hang your rollers for a while ..... ) The question of how things could have come so badly undone for someone so kind, generous and hardworking as you is one I cannot answer. It is so painful that one so good as you has been lost. We all need to look after ourselves and each other in your absence, as, as we well know, nothing can bring you back, or explain why you left us and your life behind. In the end these thoughts are not so useful either. So I should end this posting before I push everyone else off the page, ('typical' thinks Chazzer !)
Take care of yourself, xxx, your big brother, John
John Gerrard <johngerrard@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, May 03, 2003

Dear Angel, I'm so sorry I didn't get the chance to say goodbye to you at your funeral. I promise I will visit you at your place of rest and say to you what I think when I look at the beautiful bright stars at night. I know you're still around and looking out for us all. It's the type of guy your are. A guardian angel. Take care up there, love always Andrea.
Andrea Moyles <andreamoyles0@yahoo.co.uk>
Mayo Ireland - Friday, May 02, 2003

Have an excellent picture of you all suited and booted for the Arts Ball, on the couch in Beaver Row. It s on my wall, your gorgeous smile reminds me of the laughs and fun times of college years. I am so fortunate to have met you & will always think of you. Karen
Karen Hobson <Karen.Hobson@arcadiagroup.co.uk>
London, U.K - Friday, May 02, 2003

I will always remember your warm smile and ability to make everyone feel comfortable around you. Always so thoughtful and generous, i still have the lava lamp you gave me for my 21st birthday! And the beautiful thankyou note you wrote my parents. Your parties were always the most fun on Belmont avenue and il never forget those delicious mince pies you made for us at your christmas parties! A heart of gold and a great sense of fun, I will think of you always. asti xxxx
Asti <astridbrennan@hotmail.com>
Dublin, - Thursday, May 01, 2003

I am so lucky to have had the chance to meet you Charlie and will always remember fondly that Saint Patricks weekend and all the fun we had. Watch over us all my friend, Richie
Richie
- Thursday, May 01, 2003

I am so glad I was given the opportunity to meet you Charlie and will always remember with great fondness all the fun we had that Saint Patricks weekend. Watch over us all my friend. Richie
Richie <richie85@cluas.com>
Dublin, Ireland - Thursday, May 01, 2003

I was waiting until I could think of the perfect words to say about how I miss the thought of you, Charlie, and your big and gorgeous smile, but you shouldn't ever wait to tell people the good things, and things aren't going to be perfect - but I do miss you and your smile is a lovely memory to have, love Gemma
Gemma
- Wednesday, April 30, 2003

I hope you're having a good time up there. I'm sure you are. I know you well enough but not as much as I would like to. The times we had were always great craic. There will be more....
Patch <patchosborne@hotmail.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2003

Its all just one massive bubble of fun, a little hazy at times but brilliant. I look back often now at those crazy times, of 91 Belmont Ave, of Africa, of all the great times you gave all of us, and you know what i laugh, it was great. I'm sure wherever you are now is great too, because it never mattered where you were, Andorra, New York, Zanzibar, Dublin, London..Wherever, you had a Blast and so did everyone around you. So in the infamous words of Jeremey, keep smiling down on us buddy, miss you, J.
jamie macken
- Tuesday, April 29, 2003

I miss and think of you often, my friend. A better friend you could not have been. Fastest tea maker in the west, where will I get one now?! I know you are grinning down on me, as you grinned at me the time we managed to buy Yankees tickets from the dodgy scalper outside Yankee stadium in NY (because we were, of course, late for the game and hadn't bought tickets!). Friend, classmate, brother to me, never stop smiling.
Jeremy <toettcjf@tcd.ie>
Taipei, Taiwan (for now!) - Tuesday, April 29, 2003

Charlie's story has touched people, like me, who never met him. I think of him very often and am grateful to see the smiling pineapple picture. I feel a bit closer to having met him.
Monica Larner <monicalarner@hotmail.com>
Biot, France - Tuesday, April 29, 2003

Dear Charlie thanks for your mouth watering Thai Green Chicken curry... it lives on and with it happy memories and many satisfied tummies.
mel
- Thursday, April 17, 2003

I look on this as an opportunity to write little notes to Charlie, to tell him how much he is loved and missed. This is also to remind me about memories of hanging out with Charlie, working together and playing.
Ailbhe Gerrard <ailbhegerrard@eircom.net>
Dublin, Dublin Ireland - Thursday, April 17, 2003