5.22.05 Nick:
You should be so proud of yourself! You are like a star
to the people in Clermont County now. Everywhere I go,
I usually hear your name brought up. And on every sign
in the town of Owensville, it reads something to the
effect of the loved American Solider Nick Erdy, may
he rest in peace. Forever and always you will be our
hometown legend. You have done something so brave and
courageous that many of us would never dream of doing.
Thank you for helping American in this fight. You truely
are a hero and i know all of us thank you from the bottom
of our hearts. I know that you are in a better place
and that God is watching over you. Now you are in the
comfort of God's arms. Please watch over your loved
ones, for they will need you during this time of sorrow.
My family and I have watched you grow up at St. Louis,
and although I did not know you all that well you must
have been an amazing person by the looks of Owensville.
Thank you once again for sacrificing everything for
our country. God Bless you Nick, we are all so very
proud.
Mary Pettigrew
5.22.05 Dear Nick,
We have known you since you were four and your mom babysat
for Andrew. We have watched you grow up and become a
fine young man and a dedicated Marine. We are so proud
of you and thank you for defending our country. Our
prayers go out to your family and all your friends.
We know that you are continuing to watch over them.
We will miss you, Nick.
Godspeed,
Jim and Karen Bellman
5.22.05 Nick I love you so much and you meant the world
to me. You will always be in my heart and thoughts.
I wouldnt be the person I am today if it wasnt for you
nor would I want to be someone that didnt know you.
You are my hero and idol and I will always look up to
you. Most of all you are my friend and brother and that
means more than anything. Rest In Peace and know I will
be looking for you when the time comes for us to meet
again. - bellman
5.22.05 i never knew nick but i am a student at mcnicholas
high school. i do in fact know the Boots family Very
well. my eyes fill with tears seeing what everyone is
writing and with each message i seem to get to know
who nick was. people only speak amazing words about
Nick.
i just wanted to say thank you! thank you for being
the brave man you were!
RIP- "God will raise you up on eagles wings. There
you are, the breath of dawn. He makes you to SHINE like
the sun. And holds you in the palm, of his hand"
Caitlin Dubois
5.22.05 nick-
you were always such a strong man and i thank you for
serving our country with such bravery and courage. you
keep us safe and i know i can't do anything but thank
you and help be here for ashley. even though we started
out on a bad foot i think that things got better. you
did so much for ashely in making her happy, that will
never be forgotten. nick, even though we considered
you a beginner, you still dominated at loaded questions
and there is no doubt that you will be missed cause
you were such an easy target for all of us. it is a
shame and sad thought to know that you will only be
a blanket of presence over us and not physically there
at any more family gatherings. i will take care of ash
and i thank god so much to even have known you. nick
you will never be forgotten. i love you.
ashley- first of all, i looooooooooooooove you!! babe
i will always be here for you and i want you to know
that no matter what you can always call and i will be
there to answer. stay strong. when i heard this song
i thought of you:
I open my eyes
I try to see but I'm blinded by the white light
I can't remember how
I can't remember why
I'm lying here tonight
And I can't stand the pain
And I can't make it go away
No I can't stand the pain
How could this happen to me
I made my mistakes
Got no where to run
The night goes on
As I'm fading away
I'm sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me
Everybody's screaming
I try to make a sound but no one hears me
I'm slipping off the edge
I'm hanging by a thread
I wanna start this over again
So I try to hold onto a time when nothing mattered
And I can't explain what happened
And I can't erase the things that I've done
No I can't
How could this happen to me
I made my mistakes
Got no where to run
The night goes on
As I'm fading away
I'm sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me
I made my mistakes
Got no where to run
The night goes on
As I'm fading away
I'm sick of this life
I just wanna scream
How could this happen to me
-ashley we will never fully know why nick was taken
from our lives but one day we will find out and it will
make sense then rather than now. you have always been
strong and this will only make you stronger. ash i loooooooooooooooove
you! and i am here for you! be brave. -jill
5.22.05 Nick,
From St. Louis to beyond McNick, your caring nature
touched many people. In your life, you stood up for
what you believed in, defended those in need, and never
let go of your dreams. You have made those of us who
know you proud, and it is a tragedy that more people
will not have the honor of knowing the greatness of
your spirit.
To the Erdy's, Rooselot's, Boots' and everyone else
who feels the loss of this brave young man's life, you
are all in our prayers. ~The Normans
5.21.05 Dear Erdy family, I am so sorry for the loss
of your oldest child, Nick Erdy. I never got a chance
to meet him, but from what i hear he seems and was and
still is one of the most sweetest marines that i have
ever felt that supported my country. I am so sorry once
again and i will continue to pray for him daily.
P.S. I was the girl who came to your house with josie
for your gathering that one friday night. - Kelsey
5.21.05 It is amazing how many have been touched by
Nick in such a profound way. Though I never had him
in class, Nick always said hello in the halls and at
games. My favorite memory, however, is when Nick visited
McNick and was in his Marine uniform. As I approached
him he looked at me, smiled, and strode forward with
hand extended. Of course, he called me Sir, something
no Rocket has ever thought to do.
When Erin was in Contemporary Literture we read a novel
set in Vietnam called The Things They Carried, and we
talked about our loved ones who were either veterans
or still serving our country. She spoke so proudly of
her brother. Rightfully so! And we shared in our hopes
that Nick and all of our Rocket alumni would return
safely.
So now we look to Nick as an eternal source of pride
and inspiration. When Iraq is a safe, secure country,
we can smile and boast that we know someone who helped
make it all possible: An awesome Marine named Nick Erdy.
~ Mr. Keating (McNicholas English dept. 1990-2005)
5.20.05 Nick, it's been a little over a week since
you left us for a better place, but that does not help
with the pain that I am stil feeling. I know you are
looking down on us, wishing you could make us laugh
to help ease the pain. You're leaving me will never
be undestood, but I guess there is a plan.. I miss you
terribly. You will forever be in my heart. Fritz
5.20.05 Nick,
Man, I couldn't believe when I heard. I sit in my room
everyday after school watch and read about everything
that is going on in Iraq, and it kills me each time
a see an American casualty. I hate sitting here not
being able to do anything or being able to help out
with the fight and the cause. Fortunately for all of
us back here there are thousands of men and women like
you who volunteered to fight and protect us. You will
be remembered forever as a hero to our nation. Thank
you.
Luke Fisher
5.20.05 Nick,
I don't know you very well but I do know of you and
I do know that you were a great person from all that
I hear. Thank you so much for fighting for our country.
My prayers are with you and your family. R.I.P Danielle
5.20.05 I actually graduated with Erin, even though
I had talked to her some in the classes we had together,
we never became real close friends. I knew of her brother
from mutual friends and from being involved at McNicholas
and he seemed like an amazing person. From all the letters
I have read on this site and seeing the pictures posted
I feel like I know a little more about him. I regret
not knowing him personally but I am proud to say I new
of him. The courage he showed serving our country like
he did amazes me and makes me reflect on my life. Ashley
and Erin, be strong and know that there are so many
people here to support you, sometimes even the ones
you never would have thought would. To the rest of the
Erdy family, my prayers and my family's prayers are
with you at this time of loss. My grandpas are standing
with open arms for Nick and Dustin in heaven.
C. Zimmerman
5.20.05 God bless you Nick. Thankyou for protecting
our country. Erin, the Erdy's, and Ashely-You are all
in my prayers. God bless you and keep you strong. Love,
Kim Wilburn
5.19.05 Nick,
Always gonna remember the great times you and i had
together. You were a great person and an even better
friend. i know im not alone when i say that we will
miss you so much and the world is a lesser place with
out you. i hope you watch over me and keep me close.
You arre a great friend and you will stay in my heart
forever. - danny hayden
5.19.05 Hey Nick,
I miss you! I feel very upset that you are gone and
I won't see you again. I was so happy that you and Ashley
were going to get married. I was happy when Ashley asked
me to be in the wedding. I always thought I would babysit
your kids....even though they would be crazy!!!!! I'm
just not myself since you are gone. I wish I would have
wrote to you more. I was happy that you were going to
be my big brother. I will try to take care of Ashley.
I love her very much. Josie
5.19.05 Nick, You motivate me so much to be the best
i can be. I cant stop thinking that i will never get
to see your smiling and laughing self again. I wanted
so much to get to know you better and i couldnt wait
for the day i would get to ride in the Boss. Ha Ha.
I loved hanging out with you and my sister. The both
of you together could keep me laughing for hours. You
gave your life to defend me and i am so proud to have
known you. I couldnt wait for the day when you would
be my brother-in-law. You mean a whole lot to my family
and me. I love you nick. I will always miss you, and
i hope i can be half the man you turned out to be. "Running
strong for american indian youth" Ha Ha - Jared
Boots
5.19.05 Erdy's,
I don't know you but my mom went to school with Jane
& the Rosselots. I go to school with Nicks cousin.
I am very proud of Nick for what all he has done. I'm
sure he was a great person. I know Chase is very upset
because he and Nick were very close but now Nick has
moved onto a better place he can watch over all of you,
he now will always be with you whereever you are. Just
remember one day you will meet up with him again in
heaven. Ashley I don't know you but from what I hear
you seemed like an amazing person. I'm sorry for everything
that has happened.
Some things I'd like to say
but first of all to let you know
that I arrived okay
I'm writing this from Heaven
where I dwell with God above
where there's no more tears
or sadness there
is just eternal love
Please do not be unhappy
just because I'm out of sight
remember that I'm with you
every morning, noon and night
That day I had to leave you
when my life on Earth was through
God picked me up and hugged me
and He said I welcome you
It's good to have you back again
you were missed while you were gone
as for your dearest family
they'll be here later on
I need you here so badly
as part of My big plan
there's so much that we have to do
to help our mortal man
Then God gave me a list of things
He wished for me to do
and foremost on that list of mine
is to watch and care for you
And I will be beside you
every day and week and year
and when you're sad
I'm standing there
to wipe away the tear
And when you lie in bed at night
the days chores put to flight
God and I are closest to you
in the middle of the night
When you think of my life on Earth
and all those loving years
because you're only human
they are bound to bring you tears
But do not be afraid to cry
it does relieve the pain
remember there would be no flowers
unless there was some rain
I wish that I could tell you
of all that God has planned
but if I were to tell you
you wouldn't understand
But one thing is for certain
though my life on Earth is o're
I am closer to you now
than I ever was before
And to my very many friends
trust God knows what is best
I'm still not far away from you
I'm just beyond the crest
There are rocky roads ahead of you
and many hills to climb
but together we can do it
taking one day at a time
It was always my philosophy
and I'd like it for you too
that as you give unto the World
so the World will give to you
If you can help somebody
who is in sorrow or in pain
then you can say to God at night
my day was not in vain
And now I am contented
that my life it was worthwhile
knowing as I passed along the way
I made somebody smile
So if you meet somebody
who is down and feeling low
just lend a hand to pick him up
as on your way you go
When you are walking
down the street
and you've got me on your mind
I'm walking in your footsteps
only half a step behind
And when you feel the gentle breeze
or the wind upon your face
that's me giving you a great big hug
or just a soft embrace
And when it's time for you to go
from that body to be free
remember you're not going
you are coming here to me
And I will always love you
from that land way up above
Will be in touch again soon
P.S. God sends His Love
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. - Tammy
5.19.05 Nick-
After sitting around and hearing songs that remind me
of you and seeing pictures of you I can't help but think
about all the times me you and ashley hung out together
and had so much fun. I know I already listed our fun
memories together on my previous note but I forgot to
mention the first time I met you as "Ashley's interest".
I remember walking into Eastgate mall and Ashley pointing
you out. You and Tony were just sitting in the food
court waiting for us, then you followed us around the
mall even though it was not any fun for you, I could
tell you did it just to near Ashley, just to be able
to hang out with her you would do anything. Right away
when we pulled out of the parking lot going our seperate
ways I told Ashley that I def. approved and liked you
a lot...and of course she needed to ditch Ronnie for
you. But she was never quite sure until you wouldnt
stop calling her and putting up a fight for her. That
just showed how much you really did love her and care
for her right away. You were so stubborn and wouldn't
let her go on her way and I am so glad that you were
like that. When you guys made it "official"
I was happier than I could have ever been. She was finally
sooooo HAPPY and everytime I saw her and we talked about
you she would just light up. You gave her something
no one else ever could have and I thank you for that
so much. You have left that in her and she will carry
it with her forever. Esp. that time she told me you
guys talked about getting married...and you told me
not to tell her you were going to propose, but she knew
it already. Although I'm sorry I wasn't able to be your
"little helper" and pick the ring out with
you since I was away at school. Nick you mean so much
to me and to Ashley and we will never let you die in
our hearts. Watch over her and make sure you show her
your presence in her life. Love you always- Jessica
W.
**Ashley and the Erdys keep going strong. I admire you
for your strength in this situation so much and you
are all in my prayers. - Jessica Wilson
5.19.05 To the Erdy and Rosselott families,
We are so sorry for you loss of Nick. Reading these
messages he must have been a wonderful young man. He
gave the ultimate sacrifice to his country for all of
us. I didn't know Nick and I don't know Asley but my
prayers are with her to. May God give you the strength
you need during this time of sorrw and remember there
are lots and lots of prayers going up for all of you.
Walter and Shirley
5.19.05 this did not really hit home until i was at
work the other day and saw bill at the hospital. nick,
although we were real distant friends, i miss you so
much. you will be missed by all. you will be in my prayers
and i know you will be watching over all of us now.
this is something which is so hard to grasp. nick you
are a hero. love ya man, david brown
5.19.05 Although I didnt know you, I still appreciate
what you've done. Thanks - Megan
5.19.05 ERDY........
I'M SO SAD TO HEAR YOU'VE PAST ON. I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH
TO HANG OUT WITH YOU A SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST COUPLE
YEARS AND I HAVE MEMORIES I'LL NEVER FORGET. FUN TIMES
DOWN ON CAMPUS AND AT HANDSOME DAN'S HOUSE....
I REALLY APPRECIATE ALL THAT YOU'VE DONE FOR THIS COUNTRY.
DUSTIN ALWAYS TALKED SO HIGHLY OF YOU. ATLEAST THE TWO
OF YOU CAN HANG OUT TOGETHER WHEREVER YOU ARE. HOPEFULLY,
YOU GUYS AREN'T CAUSING TOO MUCH TROUBLE. I'M SURE SOMEDAY
WE'LL ALL BE ABLE TO HANG OUT AGAIN.....UNTIL THEN YOU
AND DUSTIN WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED.......CHRIS S
5.18.05 Nick,
Reading all of these letters it is clear to see how
much you meant to so many. You will llive on forever
in the hearts of everyone you have ever come in contact
with, no matter how breif the meeting. You are such
an inspiring person. I am still just in aw of you, and
everything that you have done. There are so many people,
including myself, that are proud and honored to say
that we know you, that we love you, and that you are
a part of our lives... You are are so brave, so couragous,
so admireable. It is still so hard to believe that you
are gone. It seems so unfair to think that a man with
so much to offer was taken from us so soon. It is said
that God has a plan for everyone, I wish with all my
heart that his plan for you was different. You truly
are a hero, not only to those who knew you, but to everyone
in the world. We could never repay our debt to you.
You truly are a one of a kind. We are all so blessed
to have met you and to have had you in our lives. Our
loss is tremendous. You will be missed by so many. GOD
BLESS YOU NICK.....
To the Erdy's: I have been trying to think of something
to say to you that would take some of your pain away,
but I know that it is not possible no matter how hard
I try. All that I can offer you is my love and support
during this difficult time. You are all in my thoughts
and prayers. -JB
5.18.05 My love and prayers go out to the Erdy's and
Ashley. may God be with you through this hard time.
RIP nick. we'll miss you. - Abby
5.18.05 Unexplainable and wrenching are the closest
words to how my heart is feeling at this time. The devestation
cant and wont leave my mind. Nick, the moments, memories,
and time we spent together you let me into your heart
and life and taught me more than you can ever begin
to imagin. You were the first guy my mom ever let me
get in a car with. You were always so convincing and
determined like that. I rememeber the countless conversations
we had about life and what's ahead, and at the time
you didnt exactly know, but you always talked about
doing something great. Great doesnt even give you justice
for the impact you had oh this world. I could always
see the immense strength in your eyes, the courage and
determination you had. You provided me and countless
friends and families with comfort just knowing that
you were over protecting us each day. For that, I will
be forever grateful.
When the news found me, pain like I've never felt and
memories rushed through my head. All the 3 way phone
conversation with Tony, but really you were pretending
to be silent so I didnt know you were on the phone.
Your red truck in the winter and us trying to walk down
my driveway to get to it. Phone calls that lasted late
into the night. You taught me how to open up and love.
Your heart is huge and I cant tell you how happy I am
that you found Ashely. I know you gave her every ounch
of you. Ashely, I know we dont know each other that
well, but I know how much he loves you and always will.
My prayers and heart are with you and the time you are
going through. Erin, hunny I cant even begin to feel
your pain. I love you dearly and miss you more than
you know. You know I'm here anytime , anyplace. Mr.
and Mrs. Erdy, thank you for the gift you gave to this
world and to so many people. His strength and courage
will inspire more to be better people. Nick, I will
never forget the memories we had. Im grateful for reconciling
our past and look forward to next time we meet. Thank
you for the 21 years you gave to this world. Watch over
us Nick, I will miss you.
-Stephanie N.
