DREW SAMSON ELLIOT MURRAY

Condolences & Memories (46 entries)

• I first met Drew in my Kindergarten class. Immediately I was drawn to him by his beautiful eyes, and then his infectious smile. You couldn't help but smile back whenever he'd smile at you, even the smallest of smiles helped. He always managed to brighten my day whenever I'd see him around the halls at school. He was also a member of the church that my family and I used to attend. Sadly, I lost track of Drew after a few years in middle school; partially due to us being in separate classes, and eventually with myself leaving H.G.I. to go to a different school, and with my family moving churches. Still, I thought of him fondly, using him as a source of inspiration, because it's difficult enough going through life and living it as it is without any disabilities, and Drew always seemed to have a cheery smile, even on the days when he was more tired looking. I reconnected with Drew and his older brother Jon, at Camp Arnes. A few family members of mine and I were working there at the time, and for a few summers, we always would see the two older Murray boys, and it was really a blessing to see the obvious amount of love between them, how much respect they both had for each other. Drew really is the strongest person I know, next to my own siblings with their disabilities. They are all very strong, very brave, and very loving, selfless, caring individuals. They will always be a source of inspiration to me, a means of giving strength into my own life for the days where it's a little bit harder to get out of bed, or a little bit more tough to see the good amongst what seems to be only bad. There will always only be one Drew Murray. He will always be strongly loved, especially by those who knew him the most. My best wishes for his family, strength be to you. God bless you all. I know Drew must've been an angel to teach us all how to be more compassionate and caring of others, because he did such a great job at loving other people. - Posted by: Anonymous (Former Classmate) on: Jan 31, 2014

• I just found out about Drew's passing today, and wanted to send a message of condolence to his family. I met Drew in the fall of 2007, back when we were both in the tenth grade. At first, knowing that he couldn't speak, I wondered why he was mainstreamed so much and seemed to be able to lead such a normal life--a life that most ablebodied teens would be leading. But it wasn't long before I got to know him better, and realized how despite his limitations, he was one bright boy. He had an eye for the girls, and Joan and I would often sing the O'Kaysion's song, "I'm a Girl Watcher" to him, but we'd slightly change the lyrics and sing instead, "he's a girl watcher" or "Drew's a girl watcher." I heard the song a few months ago, and was reminded once again of Drew and what a chick magnet he was. I'd wanted to go and see him at St. Amant, but sadly didn't see that that happened. I remember the last time I saw him, and how I took his tiny hand in mine as we said goodbye, on the last day of school back in June of 2011--June 15th to be exact. He'd had a rough year, but tried to be as positive as he could. It was hard to hear him crying in pain or being sick to his stomach on mornings that were obviously rough ones for him, for I knew that there was only so much pain he could take before his happy demeanor wavered, even just a little. I myself have a disability, but it is nowhere near as debilitating as Drew's was. It can be hard for those of us with challenges to stay positive, but Drew was a good example for us to follow. And his educational assistants were so patient with him and the other students they came in contact with. They truly had a heart for children. I remember his unique laugh, his caring nature and how he embraced life to the fullest. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family, friends and everyone else who had the privilege of knowing him and who have been affected by his passing. He left us far too soon, but his spirit will live in our hearts forever more. - Posted by: Ana Gschwend (a friend of Drew's and a fellow Vincent Massey student who occasionally also had Joan, Andy and Erin) on: Sep 02, 2013

• We wish to offer our deepest condolences to the Murray family during this difficult time. Hanging out Jono growing up, I was often around Drew and that smile never disappeared. The toughest things in life are often those we cannot comprehend, but Drew lived his life to the fullest and left a lasting impact; beautiful and sincere, on anyone who witnessed his special smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I'm sure as you know he will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. - Posted by: Dan, Elaine, Michelle and Chris Perron (Friends) on: Aug 23, 2013

• Jane I was very sorry to hear of the passing of your son. After reading everyone's thoughts and comments I have an idea how special he was. My thoughts are with you during this most difficult time - Posted by: Jody Adelman (Old friend of Janes) on: Aug 23, 2013

• Mister Drew, I can't believe that yesterday was the final goodbye, the celebration of such a miracle. You were such a beautiful, strong, and handsome man and I am so proud of you. You have taught me so many lessons in my life, ones that have molded me into the person I am today. I am so blessed to have been able to have called you my cousin, to have been able to be your cousin. Drew, you have touched so many lives and it is incredible that you have done it all without speech and through your physical disabilities... not once did that wheelchair get in the way of your mission. You are the bravest person I know. God has shone brightest through you and your heart, never once did you feel sorry for yourself but you were always so concerned about the well being of everyone else. Drew, your love of shopping was always a good time. All the shoes and dresses you made me try on...and all of the bikinis I put over your head...while you smiled and shook your head "no". I'll never forget those times when you smiled. Your smile was the most beautiful and happiest smiles I have ever seen and I will always miss it. I know you thought I was delusional and all saying that I beat you in UNO but buddy, despite the cheating that went on when I was wearing my sunglasses....I did whoop your butt at the game once! ....I can see you rolling your eyes... Drew, you never ceased to amaze me with your quick wit and your love of life and I will always cherish the days I spent with you because I got to witness it, I got to be a part of it. Drew, you gave not only me, but everyone else a great great gift of unconditional love and you have taught us all what that looks like. You have shown me exactly what true happiness is and I can only pray that I could even begin to make that happiness as infectious as you did. Drew, I often wondered why such a great God would give you such a terrible disability. But after we celebrated your life yesterday afternoon, I now see the impact you had in so many people's lives, that you were a rare and beautiful gift from God. You have shown me that through pain it is possible to triumph the limitations of ones life and within that triumph it is 100% possible to produce love, joy, patience, peace, happiness, kindness, and hope. Drew, your handsome smile is imprinted in my mind, my heart, and soul for the rest of my life...that 10,000 watt smile will always be shining bright from heaven down onto those you loved. Drew, if there is anything that you have taught me through the 21 years of both our lives, just as your Uncle Jeff has said, I have learnt that not all heros wear capes. Drew, you have been and always will be my hope, my smiles, my kindness, my peace, my faith, my inspiration, but most of all, my hero. I love you with every ounce of my heart Drewbear, Forever my hero, Shannon xoxoxoxo "May the angels protect you, trouble neglect you, and heaven accept you when it's time to go home. May you always have plenty, your glass never empty, know in your belly, you're never never alone. May your tears come from laughing, you find friends worth having with every year passing, they mean more than gold. May you win but stay humble, smile more than grumble, and know when you stumble, you're never alone. Never alone, never alone. I'll be in every beat of your heart, when you face the unknown, wherever you fly, this isn't goodbye. My love will follow you, stay with you, baby you're never alone. Well I have to be honest, as much as I want it I'm not gonna promise the cold winds won't blow. So when hard times have found you, and your fears surround you, wrap my love around you. You're never alone. May the angels protect you, trouble neglect you and heaven accept you when it's time to go home. And when hard times have found you, and your fears surround you, wrap my love around you, you're never alone. My love will follow you, stay with you, baby you're never alone. " -Lady Antebellum. Drew, my heart is filled with so much joy knowing that you have joined Jesus and that you have been given a new and beautiful body that works! Psalm 4:7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have with their grain and wine abound. Love you forever my beautiful man Mwah =* - Posted by: Shannon Coppen (Most Favorite Cousin Of All Time) on: Aug 21, 2013

• Jane and family, although we only met Drew once, Lori often spoke about him and told us the details of what a remarkable young man he was. When we heard that he had passed, a line of Shakespeare that I hadn't thought of in years sprung to mind. "When he shall die Take him and cut him out in little stars And he will make the face of heaven so fine That all the world will be in love with night And pay no worship to the garish sun." - William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliette Our thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Risa Sokoloff and Dan Chitiz (Friends of Lori and Tom ) on: Aug 19, 2013

• Craig and family: my most sincere condolences at the passing of your son...in reading the testimonials, it is evident that he was a special person in everyone's life. Please accept my most sincere condolences. - Posted by: Francis LaBossiere (Colleague of Drew's Dad) on: Aug 19, 2013

• I didn't have a chance to know Drew that well but he was a joy to have at massey and that smile could cheer you up any day of the year! He will be greatly missed by all and he certainly made massey a better place to be. You didn't have to know Drew to know what a great young man he was. My heart goes out to his family. But a big thank you for raising such a wonderful son who graced the world with that personality - Posted by: maddison szumlak (student at vincent massey) on: Aug 17, 2013

• although it's been many years I still remember Drew's contagious smile on his visits to Children's Hospital Physiotherapy Dept. - he always brightened up my day. My sincere condolences to all the family. - Posted by: Gwen Smith ((former) receptionist, Physiotherapy, Children's Hospital) on: Aug 17, 2013

• Drew Murray, An absolute blessing and gift. Although the distance often kept us apart. You taught us all important lessons to look at life as half full not half empty. That a smile can ignite a spark an unbelievable connection, a raging fire of warmth and understanding. You are deeply loved and I think your brothers said it best, super heros can wear purple. We will miss you, thank you Drew for the blessings and lessons you have taught us. We love you! - Posted by: The Coppen's (Auntie (Murray) Uncle cousins) on: Aug 17, 2013

• Jane, Craig, Mac and Jono. We wish you peace in your grief. It has been a rich experience to know Drew, and to see him share love, right in the middle of your family. Up until now, I have thought of Drew's health problems as something negative, a burden to bear. But as I contemplate his life and his impact on others, I see that everything about Drew was a gift. Soulfull eyes, a robust laugh, and an ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Drew demonstrated love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness and I believe these were from the Spirit residing in him. My family had a deep respect for Drew, and will miss the chance to share a laugh or a moment of communion staring into each others eyes. Like few people I have known, Drew showed us that the human spirit, through perseverance, can overcome pain, suffering and limitation and produce strong character, maturity and Hope. I anticipate we all wish we had spent more time with Drew as we reflect on his life and legacy. Let us learn from him, and invest strongly and deeply in relationships with people, especially people who might not be just like us. Drew, we will miss you. We believe that you will be with us always. We believe that you are now able to express your joy and love in ways that were not possible in your earthen body. We believe you are with the Master, fully at peace. - Posted by: Neil Craton (Friend of the family) on: Aug 17, 2013

• Drew's awesome smile and sense of humour will always remain in our memory. He was a warm, bright person, and he could not have been blessed with a more loving family. Our thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Tamara McCaffrey and Joe Aiello (friends) on: Aug 16, 2013

• My sincere condolences to Craig, Family, Friends, and Drew's Support Crew! I met Drew with his dad by chance in a mall, and do recall his smile and happy way! Reading of him above, I have a greater appreciation of the significance of purpose The Children's Rehabilitation Centre has, and will continue to support its programs! A great part of Drew's story is how - Family is Everything! Sounds like Drew's Family was everything to him, as Drew was to Them! Take care! - Posted by: Leigh Young (Friend & Client of Craig's ) on: Aug 16, 2013

• My one regret was not being able to be a larger part of young Drew's life. The time we did spend with him was truly inspirational. He was an amazing young man who touched the hearts of everyone he came in contact with. Reading through all the messages just confirmed what a tremendous force he was as a human being. He captured his cousin Melissa's heart several years ago and they forged a special bond as he did with so many others. Our thoughts are with you Jane, Craig, Jonathon and MacKenzie and the entire family. We will be thinking of you today and I am just so glad that Melissa is there to represent our family. I am comforted by the thought of Drew running through the grass towards all his Great Aunts and Uncles who are waiting to greet him. Rest in peace dear Drew. - Posted by: Marg, Drew, Melissa and Colin Grout (cousins) on: Aug 16, 2013

• I will always remember Drew's awesome sense of humor and the many laughs we shared! My condolences to the family. Rest in peace Drew. - Posted by: Frank Rizzuto (Educational Assistant ) on: Aug 16, 2013

• God creates all sorts of different people and when He created Drew, He revealed the amazing love that is able to be shown from deep within. We knew Drew best from Kindergarten to Grade 5 or so and when he wasn't out and out laughing his head off, his eyes revealed the depth and breadth of who he was and how much he loved. He made us better people. He gave us a glimpse of the love that is possible to give to another and we will be forever blessed to have known him, his family and his aides. Jane, I will forever remember the amazing grace you displayed whenever we were with Drew, fumbling around sometimes! Craig, your consistent encouragement and positive attitude with us as we interacted with "the chick magnet" was heartwarming and genuine. We are sure all Drew's EA's were extraordinary, we had/have the pleasure of knowing Mrs. Wilson and Mr. Tough...they really don't get better than that. What an awesome example of selfless love you all are. God bless you all Jonathon, MacKenzie, Jane and Craig...with love from the Reimers xo - Posted by: Yvonne, Gord, Nicole and Kelsey Reimer (friends) on: Aug 15, 2013

• Drew's enthusiasm and unmistaken smile are defining qualities that I will remember. Throughout the time we spent playing tee ball, hanging out in the Murray basement and the years going through school together, Drew was a great friend. I have countless fond memories of hanging around Drew alongside Mr. Tough and Mrs. Wilson. We had great fun on school field trips and during many school lunch breaks! Drew was a genius the way he could instil some fun into class lectures with his laughter. Through the time spent together, a friendship flourished that I will cherish and continue to reflect on and remember. I extend my deepest thoughts and prayers to Drew's entire family. - Posted by: Garrett Hudson (Friend) on: Aug 15, 2013

• Our hearts broke when we heard of Drew's passing. Reading all the beautiful words written about your Beloved Son brings tears. What he achieved & how many lives he touched in his 21 years is a true testament of the incredible young man he was. His infectious smile warmed the hearts of many & brightened everyone's day. Drew certainly earned his 'Wings' and now your Beloved Angel is free to fly... May God Bless you both for being such exceptional & devoted parents! With Our Most Deepest & Heartfelt Sympathy, Darcy & Garry - Posted by: Darcy & Garry Smith () on: Aug 15, 2013

• Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jane and family. I remember Drew's smile the most. When I saw him he was always so happy! His face and smile could light up the room. He is free now and can soar as high as the eagle; no physical restrictions. May God bless you all and grant you peace in your hearts. - Posted by: Lesley Finlay (friend) on: Aug 15, 2013

• As a Pembina Trails School bus driver I have fond memories of conveying Drew to and from school. The interaction I shared with Drew only made his permanent smiles and grins even larger. We had good times and I thought of him often after leaving Pembina Trails. My condolences to the family. Rest in peace Drewbie, you fought hard for it and are most deserving. Until we meet again my friend. Ron. - Posted by: Ron Campbell (School Bus Driver) on: Aug 15, 2013

• Jane, Craig & Family, Although Drew's time at St.Amant was relatively short, he was well loved. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to know him and you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of the family and friends grieving Drew's passing. Peace be with you Drew - Posted by: Peter Duff (St.Amant) on: Aug 15, 2013

• I feel very honoured to have been able to meet Drew and some of your family during his short time at St. Amant. It was an equal honour to have had you support my children at U. of W. Jane. Drew was so bright and strong in his life attitude. The full acknowledgement of his great family backing and enriched relationships gave him a distinction that offered him tremendous pride and dignity. It was tough to observe the physical pain he was struggling with the past while, and yet he would still muster up his smile to engage with others. He was the True Teacher and those of us who got to learn from him, will have been Blessed forever. My sincere condolences to all of your family and Drew's support network. - Posted by: Charlotte Livingston (Kindred Teacher/ Mother Spirit with Jane) on: Aug 15, 2013

• Jane and Family. I wanted to offer you my sincerest condolences on the passing of your amazing son. I remember you bringing him to class many years ago and the complete look of admiration and love that he was giving you as you taught. You are both truly amazing parents who raised a phenomenal son. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. - Posted by: Nathalie (Jane's Student) on: Aug 14, 2013

• i will truly miss you drew we had a special bond and i will miss your wonderful smile and unspoken wit may you rest in peace my friend i will never forget you - Posted by: rowan (staff at st amant) on: Aug 14, 2013

• Drew was much loved. Our prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Barbara and Larry Glenn (friends) on: Aug 14, 2013

• To the Murray Family - We are very saddened to hear of the loss of your precious son and brother, Drew. Please know you are in our prayers and we wish you as much peace as possible during this difficult time. - Posted by: Doug, Shauna, Matt and Ashleigh Bunting (Friends) on: Aug 14, 2013

• A blaze of light with a eye for the extra-ordinary has now gone into the stars to shine his light upon us from above. Drew I will remember the joy in your heart when we had drumming circles in the library - you rocked and rolled in your own delightful way. And I will never forget the day Andy was in the library bubble while Erin was learning about giving you Indian Head Massage techniques... Andy wanted to receive those benefits too! But Andy stepped aside and let you receive - all thanks to Mr. Martin who let Erin take the extra-curricular opportunity to help you out! We loved your photographs and seeing the pleasure you had in capturing life visually. May you rest in peace dear soul and may the angels comfort you as you leave this earth and move into heaven! - Posted by: Mona-Lynne Ayotte (Teacher - Librarian (VMC)) on: Aug 14, 2013

• When Drew came to St. Amant school it was clear his sense of humour was very similar to mine. The laughs we shared were very special to me and our short time together will always be remembered. I will always remember the Christmas concert of 2012 when Drew came with his Uncle. The laughs we shared before the concert began are a very fond memory for myself. I send my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and all the close friends Drew touched in his life. He is sorely missed but will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Grant Miyai (Music Therapist - St.Amant School) on: Aug 14, 2013

• Drew will be remembered forever by those who were touched by his infectious smile. He chose the Murray family knowing they would recognize his warrior spirit. Their unwavering kindness and patience taught him about the power of unconditional love - rest in peace Drew bear. - Posted by: Caitlin Forsey (Family Friend) on: Aug 14, 2013

• Craig, my condolences are with you and your family. May Drew rest in peace knowing that he will be missed but never forgotten. - Posted by: Kate Peters (friend) on: Aug 14, 2013

• Although I am sad to no longer see those twinkling eyes, that show-stopping smile nor hear those loud snorts of laughter, Drew will forever be in my heart and his memory will be alive in my classroom. Drew taught me to see beyond limitations to embrace ability: to recognize and cherish that everyone, EVERYONE brings value to the table, I just may have to look a wee bit harder in certain students but oh what reward when it is discovered! Knowing Drew changed me for the better. Having him in my classroom with Joan and Erin and Andy was an honour. Plus, the dude laughed at my jokes... Gotta love that!!! Although I doubt I will ever understand why Drew's lot in life was the one he was given when he deserved so much more, It only confirms for me what an incredible spirit he was. He was strong enough to not only endure but to flourish and give to others... I believe with all my heart that today Drew is in Paradise, in the delighted arms of his Maker - thrilled to have His child back- being told "well done, my good child, well done" In your honour, I will form an award in my Improv class given to the student who continues to spread joy, work hard, and love life even in the face of adversity... Until we meet again buddy... - Posted by: Margo Wilson Kehler (Teacher (Improv & Drama @ VMC)) on: Aug 14, 2013

• I knew Drew simply from being around St Amant. What really caught my eye was one day, almost a year ago, he was in the cafeteria with his dad. I could tell how much Drew understood, how observant he was, and how much his dad loved him. He spoke to him with such respect and adoration. I remember looking at my friend and saying "Look at that. Look how good he is with his son. You can almost feel that connection!"... To which she replied "That's Drew, he is new here. He is very smart. He really understands a lot, sweet kid." I saw him a few times in passing since then, but that moment stuck out in my mind. I will never forget it. It truly touched me, to the point of becoming teary-eyed. He was a very well loved young man, and he was lucky to have such a wonderful family, and you most certainly were lucky to have him, too. May he rest in peace, and may you cherish the wonderful memories you have made with him. - Posted by: Kara (N/A) on: Aug 14, 2013

• Craig, Jane and family, Our deepest condolences. We will always remember Drew's smiling face and contagious laugh. We know Drew is smiling down on all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Loretta,Gord,Tyler,Haley Boswick (Friends) on: Aug 13, 2013

• For all of us who knew Drew through school (in a teaching/support role).... It could not have been more apparent that he was actually there to teach all of us! Drew, you personally taught me through your patience, bravery and the kindest heart I will ever know! I feel so fortunate to have had you in my life for so many years and we became such good buddies! We will all miss you and your fantastic smile! Our thoughts and prayers are with the Murray family members at this difficult time. Joan, Carey, Kendall and Colin Wilson - Posted by: Joan Wilson (Friend) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Drew was an amazing person. He was always so happy and I always looked forward to the summer when I could spend time with him on the dock. He had a smile that lit up that lake and he will be very missed. The lake just won't be the same without Drew. My love goes out to his entire amazing family. - Posted by: Sarah Sheps (friend) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Dear Jane and Family. I was a student of yours, Jane, at the U of W back in 2001/2002. I remember you talking about your family and your children. You beamed with pride and admiration for your children, especially Drew. I am tremendously sorry for your loss. What a great life he had with you as his mother! - Posted by: Pam (Jane's student) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Drew's eyes captivated me from the start, only to be caught seconds later by a perfect smile in a devastatingly handsome face... an outrageous flirt in school, always appreciating the high school beauties, an accomplished photographer (award winning) and a stellar student, daily challenges never hindered his pursuit of learning. To be one of his teachers is an honour. My heartfelt sympathy to all who mourn his loss. - Posted by: Dale Christiuk (resource teacher) on: Aug 13, 2013

• My sincere condolences on this loss. Drew was such a special boy and I have such fond memories of him. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Susan and Neil Scheirich (friend) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Our heartful condolences on Drew's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family in Winnipeg during this difficult time. The joy he brought to everyone was always so apparent. - Posted by: Bob and Deborah Tod () on: Aug 13, 2013

• Drew is one of the strongest, kindest, passionate people I have ever known and a great friend. His smile was contagious and was loved by all. Drew had the heart of a lion yet was gentle and kind. Drew I will miss you but I know you are smiling down on all of us. We shared many laughs over the years. Until we meet again. My prayers and thoughts are with your family and all the people you touched over the years. Andy Tough - Posted by: Andy Tough (Educator Assistant/Friend) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Jane, Craig & Family - Our hearts are incredibly sad to hear the news. Drew always had a smile on his face that was contagious. Our condolences are with you. May he rest in peace. You are all in our thoughts, prayers and hearts. xoxoxoxoxo - Posted by: Shauna Filuk & Tim Scott (Friends) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Craig My condolences to you and your family on the loss of your precious son. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Albina Moran - Posted by: Albina Moran () on: Aug 13, 2013

• Drew was an incredible fighter who always wore a smile and behind that smile was a sense of humour that was so infectious. He had challenges that would take many of us down, but he looked for the funny side of life. From all the educational assistants in Pembina Trails, We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Drew’s caring and dedicated family. Drew will be missed by so many. Rest in peace, Drew. EAPT - Posted by: Patricia Lloyd (Educational Assistant) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Murrays, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Drew will be missed by all his school friends and all that knew him. Treasure the memories of the special person we all got to know. - Posted by: Daryl, Maureen, Mason, Davis & Quinten Harris (Friends) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Our heartfelt condolences on the passing of a beautiful soul. Drew had a smile that would melt your heart. He will be sadly missed. Heaven now has a beautiful angel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Murray family. - Posted by: Francesca,Sam,Domenic and Vinny Bruni (friends) on: Aug 13, 2013

• Drew had a smile that lit up any room~ even a 'hospital waiting room'.. He was very special and I will never forget him. He was blessed to have a wonderful family who adored him. May he rest in peace. You are all in my thoughts, prayers and heart. - Posted by: Ingrid Scham (Nurse at Children's Hospital) on: Aug 13, 2013