Condolences
I am so very sorry to hear of Lindsay's death. My wife and I have just learned of it. My deepest condolences to his family. I know the tragedy here as I lost my own son this way just last December. I didn't know Lindsay but I knew both his namesake and his father. Peace be with you all.
I met Lindsay when he was a student in Linguistics at the UofC. I was the department administrator for the program. Lindsay was always so friendly and kind. I thought he was one of the coolest students I had met. We used to talk about music as we both loved the industrial genre. He was incredibly smart and I was both happy for him and sad when he graduated. I am so shocked and saddened by the news of his passing. My sincere condolences to all who knew him, he was a truly great person.
Jane, Murray and girls: Bill and I are so saddened to hear about the passing of your beloved son, Lindsay. Since Nikki told us the devastating news, she has been finding pictures we have of their early childhood together. She, Tallan and Lindsay had some special, early years together. We hope you find serenity in knowing you did all you could to help him. We will hug Nikki on his behalf! Love, prayers and condolences to all of you.
Love, Bill and Debbie Harris
I am absolutely gutted to hear about this. Lindsay was always such an amazing person with a huge heart. A truly caring and imaginative person. He was one of my best friends for many years. There are so so many memories that I cherish with Lindsay from our childhood. Having grown up together, we spent the majority of the first 5+ years of our lives together. We had so much fun going to the zoo, the bird sanctuary, reptile museum, movies, playing video games, playing with toys, and especially playing at the park across the street. Watching him become a big brother was so heartwarming - he always had so much love for the girls and was a great brother. Although we were only a few months apart in age, he was put into a grade younger than me through school which unfortunately led us to losing some closeness through junior high and high school. I truly wish we had stayed closer, and stayed in contact more in our adult years, but I will always cherish my memories with him nonetheless.
Upon reflecting on my friendship with Lindsay, I have come to realize just how much he impacted me as a whole. He introduced me to so many things that have had a profound impact on my character and my interests. He introduced me to Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Runescape to name just a few. I attribute my deep love of fantasy entirely to him.
I remember fondly all of the times we would watch Star Wars in the basement of his childhood home, and we would act out many of the scenes. We had so much fun. And making up extravagant worlds and storylines to act out both with toys and at the park. I also remember playing a PC game (might have been Warhammer or something similar) for hours on end. I didn’t really understand it then, but he always helped me figure out what to do.
Lindsay touched the lives of so many, and it’s truly heartbreaking that he just couldn’t bare his pain anymore. I will be forever grateful to have known such a wonderful soul, and for his impact on my life. I can’t imagine the pain felt by your family. I’m sending my deepest condolences to you all, with a reminder to be gentle with yourselves in this difficult time.
All my love.
I am deeply saddened to hear about Lindsay's passing. He was one of my first friends and one best friends growing up. I practically ran a rut into the road running down the street to knock on the door and ask if Lindsay could come play. We spent our childhoods learning and growing together, and his creativity, kindness and goofiness have left a permanent impression on me. My deepest condolences to your family. I am sending my thoughts and my love to all of you.
Murray and Jane, I know how your hearts must ache. I remember Murray’s dry humour when he talked about his kids at work...helped me not freak out (as much) as mine were going through the trials of childhood. Hugs to both of you.
Dear Samuel and Carstairs Family,
Ruth, Mark and Maria Topolnyski wish to express our deepest condolences to you all. We did not know Lindsay well but share your grief regardless.
We know you were a loving and caring family to him. We will always remember him and your love for Lindsay.
I went to school with Lindsay from Kindergarten through Grade 12. I remember most his sense of humour, his individualistic spirit, and his kindness. My heart and thoughts go out to the whole Samuel family and all of Lindsay’s friends. He will never be forgotten by those who knew him.
With deepest sympathy,
Leanne Kaufman
Lindsay was one of my best friends growing up. At Varsity Acres we spent our time playing soccer and running around the field pretending we were heroes in made-up worlds of our creation. As we got a little older we spent countless hours tackling video games at the Samuels' house and staying up way too late at sleepovers, chatting about every topic under the sun.
Even though we grew apart after Branton, whenever we would get together I was always happy to see that our bond had never really faded, and he was the same kind and intelligent guy I remembered. Once I moved back to town after university I always hoped I would run into him somewhere so we could catch up and reminisce about the good old days. I was heartbroken to find out that we won’t get that chance.
To this day when I think of the word imagination, what pops into my head, is a picture of Lindsay, as a kid, smiling and holding his notebook. I don’t think that will ever change.
Lindsay, thanks for giving me so many of my favourite childhood memories. Love you man, rest in peace.
Joel
Jane, Murray, Catherine and Alison,
So shocked and truly saddened to hear of Lindsay's passing. So many great memories of he and Joel growing up together. Sending warm thoughts and comfort to you all.
Lynn and James
Dear Jane and Murray,
We are so sad to hear of Lindsay's passing. He went through school with our boys, and I remember when he played soccer with our older son Conor. Our deepest condolences and best wishes.
Wally and Cathy MacNaughton
Dear Jane and Murray. It is so hard to learn about your beloved son's death. I lost my sister last year. She died by suicide and I know the pain it causes. Please let me know if there is anything we can do and don't hesitate to reach out. Make sure you take care of yourself . You are in our thoughts during these tremendously difficult times.
Our very sincere condolences,
Ingrid, Greg, Christopher, Katrin and Patrick Smith
Jane and Murray,
We are so sorry to learn of Lindsay's death. Our hearts go out to you, Alison and Catherine, at this most difficult time. Lindsay was such a bright and independent spirit; we are sorry to learn his private demons got the better of him.
Our sincere condolences,
Peter and Liz
Lindsay was a large part of my Junior High and High School life and memories. I remember late nights of trying to muddle our way through figuring out how D&D was played. Playing Horror games in the basement and getting terrified when the furnace creaked. While we lost touch after High School, I will always remember Lindsay's vibrant smile, the way he lit up a room, and his jangling pants.
Your Friend - Matt
I have been to some beautiful places in my life. I stood in the sistine chapel at fifteen. It isn't seared as clearly into my memory as Lindsey's smile. His smile lit up countless days in my life, as I imagine it did for many. Lindsey and I graduated from a class of upwards 350 students. Despite that, I was always blessed to share at least one class with him in a given semester, all three years in high school. When I say I was blessed, I mean that. I have many memories of simple moments of Lindsey. His embrace, as noted, was the best medicine. I remember the warmth of his chest as I would press my cheek into it, and the relief that followed as his arms wrapped around me. Lindsey never saw me for whatever success I boasted or failure I hid- he saw me as a spirit, a person, and it showed. Lindsey was someone that had this magic ability to make you feel seen and loved with a simple glance. I spent two years with Lindsey seated in front of me in social class. Mr. Pierce was our teacher. We sat in the second row from the windows, with Lindsey right in front of me, front row. The most vivid of my memories center around this classroom: his embrace before and after class, lingering in the hallway and discussing anything that would come to mind. It was never superficial- that wasn't his style. I loved him for it. When Lindsey shaved his head, he would always bow his neck backwards and let me stroke the soft hair that grew in on his scalp. Looking back, I notice that Lindsey probably understood that it was soothing for me, and he never, not once, made me feel weird for my tendency to notice textures above all else. Lindsey was the first model I ever had of a platonic male-female relationship that never once devolved into awkward flirting or unwanted advances. The respect he gave me was, frankly, life changing. At a time in my life when I was quickly spinning out of control, Lindsey centered me with his conversation, his brilliant smile, his unforgettable embrace, and the warmth that radiated from his cheeks, his posture, and his presence. One day, again in class, I believe it was 12th grade, Lindsey rolled into first period with his eyebrows shaved. Unsurprisingly, the majority of class was shocked, myself included. "Heyyy bud!" I called out, and his teeth flashed as his lips parted, and his eyes glowed. We engaged in our routine greetings- a good hug, a chat about whether we had mustered the motivation to begrudgingly finish our assignments, and what task we had devoted ourselves to or what wikipedia portal we had fell into when we inevitably gave up on the homework. I asked Lindsey what could have compelled him to shave his eyebrows. He responded jovially, "I just wanted to see what it looked like!" and we mused over how strange the face suddenly became without this often unnoticed feature. Lindsey beamed with pride. He was experiential, daring, and that has always been admirable. I asked him, "So what's it like?" and he chuckled. Lindsey spoke clearly, a sentence I replay in my head more often that not, "I never realized how much shampoo would get in my eyes! And sweat! And dirt! Everything!" He looked up at me, this moment replays like a movie: "I wouldn't recommend it."
In the years that have passed since I've graduated Aberhart, Lindsey has bubbled to the surface in memories, in conversations, in therapy- always as an inspiration. Lindsey taught me how to live unapologetically, how to boast authenticity, and not to hang my hat on frivolous, passing measures of success. Lindsey imparted onto me a sense of pride and love of self. He was both a mentor and a friend. Lindsey stands out in my memories not only for his unique style-although I truly loved that I could hear the jangle of his pants from down the hall. He stands out as a young man that put himself out there without any concern for however others received him. The lessons of authenticity aren't numerous in life, and they're worth cherishing. Lindsey is a spirit I have loved and will continue to love. I regret that I won't have another opportunity to tell him how deeply he has affected my life. As someone that struggles with anxiety and depression, and as someone who has contemplated leaving this world, I wish I could tell you, Lindsey, in the moment when I chose to keep living, your face and laughter and contagious zest for life, all of that is part of what kept me here. You are not a gem past-tense, you are a legacy, a living entity that has and will continue to shape my growth and appreciation for the world around me. You taught me to show up with whatever I had to offer, never to hide my gifts, never to shy from the opportunity to shine, even if it took many years for those lessons to actualize in my daily choices. I will miss you, so dearly, and I will love you always.
Yours truly, forever, Maggie Smith, Class of 2011.
Lindsay,
The first time I remember meeting you in drama class in highschool. We were asked to share something about ourselves in the circle; you decided to show everyone how to massage your salivary glands to 'shoot' small jets of spit. Of course, and likely much to the horror of the drama teacher, many of the class immediately started to try.
We became close friends through high school, and during that time had many adventures - both fictional and non-fictional. You were instrumental in creating both of these, as your creativity was the genesis of many of them.
I left Calgary to go to university, but every time I came back on break, you welcomed me back with the best hug – one that told me I was home. We tramped around town when you came to visit me abroad, and when I moved back, you brought me right back to the table.
Our regular game sessions slowly became less common, and we saw each other less and less often. That wasn't for a loss of love or diversions of interest, but we both had our own issues to manage. Every time we were able to get together, it always concluded with a lamenting of our inability to make it happen more often.
I am outstandingly grateful we managed to get our collective act together and see each other this summer to have a night of hanging out and to share a game with old friends. Your last message to me was congratulating me on reaching one of my first career goals. I will always cherish that you were there for the beginning of my journey. I wish only there was more time, where you inevitably would have put your mark not just on Kensington, but on the world.
I was incredibly lucky to have met you. You will be missed, and my heart goes out your family, friends, and everyone else who had the pleasure to meet you.
Your friend,
Erik.
One of my fondest memories of Lindsay is the evening that, as a little boy, he spontaneously joined our book discussion meeting at jane's house. He made lovely conversation, and he added much to our evening. I was impressed by his intelligence and poise. Later, as he grew up, I was privileged to give him some of my books to read as he expanded his interests.
Rest in peace, dear child, and know that you are remembered with love.
I met Lindsay a little over ten years ago and I feel truly lucky to have been able to call him a friend for that long, he was always so kind to me and spirited in everything he did. From the late nights to the Dungeons & Dragons games and trying to start a garage band with him Lindsay helped form some of the best moments in my life. He will always be in my thoughts.
Thank you, for so very much that you have brought and shared. Thank you for being a friend, always.
Two years we had together, and now two days since you left us. I’ve never missed another human more. Technically we broke up in March, but the world was a disaster so we spent the rest of my time in the city together, soaking up all the niceness and eating lots of takeout in bed and just enjoying each other’s company. And when I moved we were best friends for a couple weeks before we realized we were still doing the thing. We still loved each other, and we still wanted to hold each other up and we still couldn’t not spend hours on FaceTime. Since the beginning we’ve had a lot of up and downs and in and outs, but we finally decided that we were gonna do it and do it together. After all we never stopped, even when we were trying to ‘figure it out.’ My sweetest love, my mirror, the other side of my coin. The same and so different all in one. But we knew the lessons we were learning together were important ones and we knew we liked doing it together. It wasn’t easy, especially after I moved, but it was always worth it. Maybe moments got the best of us and maybe we were both so used to running away that it only seemed right too many times, but we always made it back. We always hung on. We were so close to making it big. Really we already had. I love you so much Linda, honey. It’ll never stop. I wish I took a thousand more photos and sent your letter and made you send mine and I wish I wish I wish. Mostly I just wish your hurt is gone and that you can feel how loved you are a little easier now. I will miss you every damn day of this damn life I live and I will hold you close and never let you go. I know that no matter what life brought us, together or apart you would do the same with me. Thank you for seeing me and loving me and wanting me. Thank you for always giving space to my feelings and wants and needs. For listening and for sharing when you could, I know none of it was easy but you did amazing. We did amazing, baby. I’m gonna make it to all the places you wanted to take me and I’m gonna cry a fuck ton and I’m gonna think of you in every moment. Beep beep, my love.
I apologize to the family for my curse words and send all my love out to Lindsay's people. He was so loved, he is so missed.
Lindsay, we hadn't spoken in a while, and I wish I had reached out, but I guess I was afraid of judgment or something. I can't believe I'll never have the chance again.
I'll never be able to thank you enough-- you really were my introduction to independent life, and hanging out with you, Roxy, Sarafina, Nathaniel, Jordan, etc etc etc were some of the best and most formative times in my teen and young adult life. Without your kindness I'd never have been introduced to what are now some of my favourite hobbies, board, card, and video games, bands, foods, shops, and alcoholic beverages and I wouldn't know many of the amazing people I do. You invited me to hang out when I was down and missing a lot of school, and you didn't mind if I stuck to you for the first few hours in gatherings, shy to interact with larger groups.
You were a light in my life, and I know in many others' as well. You always seemed like such a good big brother to your sisters, and such a good son to your parents. Everyone that has had the privilege of knowing you is better for it. I'll never forget you.
Rest easy.
Lindsay was at our wedding and Jane had him dressed like a little Sargeant Pepper. He was absolutely adorable and was one of the highlights of our wedding. I wish I had lived closer and got to know him better but even with my limited contact he was always a polite and lovely person. I am so sad to hear this news. My, David's and Sydney's heart goes out to the whole family
I met Lindsay through my partner and from the moment we were introduced he treated me like an old friend. We both love him dearly and always made sure to tell him. He was a pure and beautiful person that lit up a room. He was kind hearted and fun loving. I'll never forget our nights playing boardgames or him running away with me while my partner lit fireworks. He defended the little guy, loved unconditionally and was an amazing spirit. I will miss him forever and remember every moment I ever spent with him with gratitude and fondness. I'm so lucky to have known him and heartbroken to say goodbye.
A smile that seems just for you, and a hug that makes you feel like you’re the most important person in the world for that moment. So genuine. Such a kind and dear soul. That’s Lindsay. Lindsay always made the world seem a bit warmer. A rare gem, and I feel privileged to have shared time and family with him, even if it wasn’t for long enough. I will strive to be more like him. Lots of love
At Jane's father's funeral I gave a eulogy. As I was ending, I got choked up. I stepped away from the podium afterwards and into a small room for the family, to compose myself. Lindsay was there to great me and silently gave me a hug (followed closely by his dad who also gave me his hand). Good souls.
Tracy McNaught
Lindsay, like other young boys, had a period were he was fascinated by dinosaurs. But he didn't group them into tall ones, spikey ones and fat ones. Lindsay learned their proper names and was not slow to correct an adult, politely, if they mistakenly referred to an Allesaurus as an Albertasaurus (I still can't spell them correctly, but he could at 5.
Tracy McNaught and Sue Carstairs
Boating at the cottage:
When he was, perhaps, 6, Lindsay and the family were visiting at our cottage in Ontario. I was teaching him to steer our pontoon boat as I sat beside him. He was content to maintain a slow, steady 7 mph - very sensible. I told him about a rock I had found that was speckled with gold; "Wouldn't it be cool if it were gold?" I asked him. He didn't take his eye of the lake as he continued to steer - "Well, it is much more likely to be Iron Pyrite". - Don't talk down to Lindsay!
Tracy McNaught and Sue Carstairs
Dear Jane, Catherine, Alison and Murray,
Our hearts break for you in this most difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to support you.
Lindsay was a kind, gentle soul that Marie remembers fondly, and rest assured you are in our hearts and prayers.
A donation was made in memory of Lindsay at the Centre for Suicide Prevention.
With heartfelt prayers to you.
Marie, Mark and the team at SkinScience
My heart broke reading this sad news of Lindsay today . I knew him Jane and Murray from the time you came to my Xmas Eve party with this precious baby and the joy that he brought to you both. I remember as he grew up a loving brother to your daughters , his sisters and his humour and spirit that he always brought to my house on Xmas Eve . Love Ginny
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