WillieBuild

"Lucas Cole would have turned 14 years old last Nov. 9. The outgoing and popular Highland Park Middle School student died suddenly and unexpectedly Aug. 12 ...There was no forewarning of Lucas' dangerously enlarged heart.

More than 2,000 mourners gathered in and around Highland Park United Methodist Church on Aug. 16 for a celebration of his life and faith. Lucas was the fourth son of Jane and Allen Cole.

"He never met a stranger," his mother said. "Everyone was on equal footing to him. He loved and respected everyone. He was equally comfortable with grandmas, adults or kids. He was very mature in that way. I think being the fourth of four boys helped create his ease with people and his honest and loving personality."

Wes credited his brother's strong disposition. "He had a great love for everyone and everything," he said. "I really miss his jokes and the laughs he brought to the table."

Jeff Barnes, Highland Park school board president, coached Lucas in grade school and spoke at the memorial service. "Lucas was everywhere," Mr. Barnes said. "It was like there were two of him. He went all over the place on his bicycle. He would talk to anyone. When he asked, 'How're you doin'?' he REALLY wanted to know how you are doing."

Jane Cole senses that her son had a premonition that he wouldn't live a long time, because he had an uncanny desire to squeeze as much out of life as he could.

Wes remembers a morning Bible study at Bubba's where the topic was what you wanted your legacy to be. Lucas, without hesitation, said that he wanted to leave a legacy of his character.

Excerpt from Dallas Morning News, Nov. 29, 2007
by Kirk Dooley, freelance writer in University Park.