We often say "appreciate the little things" or "don't take it for granted," and we think nothing of it. On April 25th, 2012, at about 8:45pm, Andrew Dudley passed away in a fashion nobody would have ever pictured. Andrew was a senior at St. Louis Park High School, touching many of the students that attend or attended school in the Park.

Many kind words were written on his Facebook wall the night of his passing; from close friends to classmates that saw him in and around the school. Students mentioned how Andrew made them smile, or made a difference in their days at school. I guess it is easy to say that he comforted people with his smile and presence, in and out of school.

St. Louis Park has been through some rough patches recently, and it's times like these that the community of St. Louis Park comes together. Just this past week Joel Koch, a person you could find walking around the halls at St. Louis Park High, passed away of a sudden heart attack. Days later the city was struck with another terrible loss. The halls are scarce and quiet at the high school; students have been impacted by Andrew's passing.

"It's quiet, it has truly been the saddest day I have spent at this school," senior Max Arko said.

Andrew Dudley had a kind, funny, caring and unselfish character all the time. As a former classmate of his, I know there was never a dull moment—he truly lived his life on the edge.

Next time you see your family or friends, don't be afraid to give them a hug. Life is precious, and you only get one chance, so here is my advice to you: Appreciate the ones around you, because they are there for a reason. Truly live your lives to the fullest and tell your family you love them every chance you get—because you really don’t know the next time you will be able to.

Note: Andrew, I know you’re in a better place; god chose you for a reason. We all miss you; you truly left a mark on this city. We will never forget. Rest In Peace.