Remembering a High School Friend on Easter

A reflection on the lasting impact of an optimistic classmate who saw the best in everyone.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 3:51pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The author reminisces about his high school friend Gus, who had an unwavering faith and positive outlook on life. Despite losing touch over the years, the author is struck by the outpouring of tributes after learning of Gus's passing, which confirm that his friend's upbeat spirit and belief in others made a lasting impression.

Why it matters

The story highlights how even brief but meaningful connections with certain people can have a profound and lasting impact, shaping our perspectives and leaving us with a renewed sense of hope, especially during significant holidays like Easter that symbolize new beginnings.

The details

The author recalls how as teenagers, he and his friends Frank, Johnny, and Gus would skip school on Good Friday to attend Mass and then enjoy the rest of the day off. While the others were often cynical, Gus maintained an optimistic and spiritual outlook, explaining how the rain on Good Friday represented God's tears over Jesus's death, and that the sun would shine brightly on Easter morning to signify his resurrection. Years later, the author is saddened to learn of Gus's passing from cancer at age 57, but is heartened by the many tributes that describe Gus's kind spirit, infectious smile, and ability to make people feel better about themselves.

  • The author and his friends skipped school on Good Friday as teenagers.
  • Gus passed away 20 years ago in 2005 at the age of 57.

The players

Gus Kordik

The author's high school friend who maintained an unwavering faith and positive outlook on life, even as his other friends were often cynical. Gus became a human resources officer and passed away from cancer at age 57 in 2005.

Frank Oberle

One of the author's high school friends who was often cynical, in contrast to Gus's optimism. Frank was killed in a motorcycle accident after graduation.

Johnny Mathis

Another of the author's high school friends who, like Frank, was cynical in contrast to Gus's positive outlook.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Some people make this a better place while they are here; Gus did!”

— Danny Crout

“I'm sure there was a special place waiting for Gus in heaven.”

— Karen Abram

“Conversations full of laughter and happiness.”

— Dan Jones

“His smile and calm demeanor will be greatly missed.”

— Grace Scales

The takeaway

The author's reflections on his high school friend Gus serve as a reminder that even brief but meaningful connections with certain people can have a profound and lasting impact, shaping our perspectives and leaving us with a renewed sense of hope, especially during significant holidays like Easter that symbolize new beginnings.