Memories of Patrick Thomas Dwyer

Classmate: Dwyer 'had a gentle smile'

I grew up in Smithtown and attended High School West along with Pat. He was a senior when I was a freshman. He didn't know me, but I knew him. He was the cute boy that had a gentle smile and sunshine surrounding him.

He was the boy all the girls had a crush on, but he wasn't arrogant and he was known for being a nice person. We probably passed in the hallways a few times, but it says a lot that I have a clear memory of his smile.

When I saw the picture in Newsday, I hung it up in my classroom and told my students about him (I am a high school teacher). I told them that life is fragile--and that what matters most is how we treat others. In the end, that is our legacy.

So, I remember your son, your brother, your husband, your father and your friend as a warm human being who will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kim Taliercio, Smithtown