My thoughts and love to Doyle's family. I am honored to have known him and am honored to know his family - they are the epitome of what is good in this world

My first extended experience with Atul was during elementary School at Vista where we used to carpool together to GATE (Gifted and Educated Education). Although I did not know him that well back then I realized even then that he was brilliant and a truely special individual. We went our seperate ways during middle school and I didn't get to know Atul really well till High School at Santa Su. During High School, Atul easily aced every class he took without much effort. Things just came easy for him while the rest of us struggled. But Atul's genius transcended the classroom. He was an accomplished musician (saxaphone), free-style rapper, human jukebox, competitive eater (he could eat his lunch and yours), and pick-up basketball player. But beyond that which was tangible, Atul had several qualities that made him beyond all else a great friend. He was a great listener and even better at giving advice. The thing that made Atul stand out the most to me was his smile, something which was constant throughout the rollercoaster of high school. When we went to college, we saw each other less frequently, usually only during vacations at the Gym. In college Atul became very physically fit and athletic but he remained the same jovial prankster he was in high school. I am so glad that I got to spend an evening with Atul just 2 weeks before he passed away. It was the first time I had seen him in months and he was joking around as always; little did I know it would be the last time I would see him. The sad thing is that the only thing that could probably make his friends feel better at a time like this would be seeing Atul's smile again; it had a unique ability to brighten up a room. My prayers are with his family, especially Aseem, somebody who Atul looked up to. I will never forget the memories I shared with Atul. He has forever changed the lives of all those who he came in contact with.

In the time we spent with Doyle, his strength as a husband, father, and friend was always apparent. Doyle was clearly a man after God's own heart, a servant leader who had his priorities in life set correctly: '!as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.' (Joshua 24:15) He took very good care of Claudia's family, and was always genuine, gracious and kind. Our prayer is that all who mourn the loss of Doyle, particularly Claudia, Kelsey, Zach, and Mackenzie, will know God's peace and comfort.

Mr. Long taught at Grace Brethren for years. He was my brother's and sister's teacher, and I finally had the pleasure to have him as my English teacher in my freshmen year of high school.

Being a freshman, I wanted to take the really "challenging" classes. So I took English Honors at Grace Brethren. Well, let me tell you, it was a lot harder than I expected, but Mr. Long was always there to help me and any other struggling student.

In those few months, he taught me a lot. Not just about the famous book 'Treasure Island' or how to write a good essay, but about life and what is out there. He made sure we all knew how important we were, that the world had a place for every single one of us. He was truly a man of God.

When I heard the news about his death, I couldn't help but cry. Mr. Long fulfilled a lot in his life. He impacted the lives of every single one of his students, and he really impacted mine. I wish I was able to have him as my teacher for ANY subject every year.

Many people go through life not having one single teacher care about their student's lives or their future. However, because of Mr. Long, I was one of the lucky ones to be able to know how it feels to have a teacher who loves and cherishes every single one of his students.

Mr. Long, you will definitely be incredibly missed.

-Debbie Williams

To the Hefter Family,
As parents of an 18 year old just starting college this hits far too close to home. We cannot begin to imagine the pain and sorrow you are feeling at this time. We pray that your hearts will know the love of those around you and that you may be comforted in the knowledge that Jacob is at peace in the Lord's arms. We are here for you should you need anything at all. Things like this shouldn't happen to wonderful people like you.
God Bless and keep you...

I never had the honor of meeting Jacob but I have seen him around campus. Always with a smile with his arms wrapped around Stephanie. I am sure that he is in heaven sending hugs to his family and friends now. My heart goes out to the Hefter family and Stephanie. You will always be remembered Jacob.

Manuel had a sweet presence and such a big warm hug! One of those people you feel like you've known forever and wish you had known forever....shanti, shanti, shanti...

My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. What happened on that dreadful day is a terriable tradegy. I was very upset and angry with the metro spokesperson for speaking out, way too soon to the media giving her "opinion" of what might have caused the accident and who was to blame. I am glad she resigned and no longer is with the Metrolink train Co, this kind of rush to judgement stirs lots of confusion among the public.

My cousin Doyle, a tall, lanky guy in his jeans and cowboy boots. We had fun times on the farm in Colorado, playing with the cousins, riding horses and listening to stories our parents,aunts and uncles had of farm life.
My heart goes out to the whole family, Claudia and the kids, Aunt Norma, JoNell and family. We are all blessed to have known and loved Doyle. Yet, even though it hard to imagine him not being here, he is always with you in your heart. He is with God and he is always watching over you and loving you. I am praying for you all and love you all very much. Laura

You were my brother and my friend. We grew up together and played spaceships on the sofa and we shared a house in Australia when you met Liz. We never had a cross word and there are few people on earth who we love as much as you. Life will never replace you.