Sacha,
I remember being amazed by your ability to be so genuine…to everyone. You had an inner confidence that was frankly untouchable in those early awkward high school years - yet you touched so many. You are a kind and generous soul. Thank you. And, by the way, thank you for signing my 8th grade year book when we were both going off to a new school together - what a boost for a pimple faced 13 year old! I hope that you have found peace and know that you were loved by many.
My heart goes out to Dave, your children and the rest of your family.
With love,
Tim

Sacha,
My first kiss in High School. Even though we "dated" for only a month I thought I was the luckiest kid in the whole world. I only wish I could have shared more with you as a friend throughout life. 

David,
My thoughts are with you, and your family knowing Sacha is now in a beautiful place. 

My condolences my friend.

Ross

Dearest Sacha,
I feel like we have continually woven in and out of each other’s lives over the years. We met in college and shared a home by the beach. We dated guys who were friends. That didn’t last but our friendship did! You gave me rides to school in your gold Cougar. Thank you! Our lives kept intertwining. We always stayed in touch even when we didn’t see each other. Your family moved to Rochester where I’m from. I saw you there one Christmas. You came to my home. You met my family. We stayed in touch. Later we met in Ouro Preto, Brazil when Sena was a tiny baby and you carried her in a bjorn as we walked the beautiful streets of that UNESCO city. I went to your wedding! My brother Gabe drove down from Tempe to be my date. We still talk about how beautiful it was. You moved. I moved. We stayed in touch. I loved receiving your beautiful Christmas cards each year with the most beautiful little faces in the world on them. They all looked just like YOU! You sent them to NY and my family always loved seeing them too and always asked about you. We stayed in touch. We had babies at the same time just three years ago; you, me, and Joan-my first, her second, and your fifth! I was so inspired by your strength and courage having yours at home and the joy you described. I imagined your beautiful life with your beautiful family and your happiness. That is the image I will keep with me, Sacha. You will be deeply missed.
To your children, Please know that your mom was well loved and please don’t stop sending me those beautiful Christmas cards; I will cherish them always. Here is my always address: PO BOX 88 Middlesex NY 14507
-Rachael Gerbic

I did not know Sacha, but have been a friend since childhood of Roxanne, and later, Jim. David and children: you have my condolences. I can only imagine the depth of your loss. Roxanne and Jim - I sympathize with your loss, and even though each grief is personal, I do understand a lot of what it must be like. Take care of each other and be kind, and if I can be of help to you in any way, please call on me. Love, Michael

We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Sacha was a truly special and rare person. We will remember her beautiful smile. Her intense love for her children will live on in future generations. We wish you peace and healing. We are praying for your family.
Love, The Ross Family, Rick, Lara, Maddy and Gabby

Sascha,
I am still so trying very hard to come to grips with this. Tonight all I could do is check in so the girls knew I was here. I keep texting you in the hopes that you get them as I throw them out to the universe... Words cannot express all the thoughts in my mind. Most of all I want you and your children to know how very much I love you and them. I promise to honor your integrity, fire, and grit. Can't help but wish and try to push down my anger at one of the best, truest friends I ever had. Struggling, but love you...same as always, girl. I wear the ring you gave me with pride. Wisdom, strength, courage... How did you know?
I promise to write more when I can. Your loving friend, Kelli

Sacha,
  I didn't know you much but I do know that you did wonderful things with your life. I have met you a couple times before, you were always cheerful and laughing with a huge smile on your face. Thank you so much for raising Senna and all your other children. Senna is not only a classmate to me, but also a dear friend who helps me when I am hurt and always seems to brighten up my day. I will never forget you and the dear friend that you contributed to my life. Thank you.

Sacha,
I only knew you for a short time when I had precious Mila in my third grade class. I too remember the amazing lunches you prepared for Mila! I was always impressed with the healthy variety! You have five amazing children who will forever treasure and love their mama! Rest in peace!

Mila, I am so sorry and I am praying for you and your family! I miss you and think of you often! You are an amazing bright and beautiful girl!
Love,
Mrs.Cornett

Sacha, I am soo so sad to hear of your passing. My heart goes out to David, and your incredible children.  Senna, Mila we will be thinking of you every day and sending you love and special thoughts of strength and comfort to you and the rest of your family. David, your tribute to Sacha was so beautiful and true. Your old "neighbors", John and Leslie Phillips

Hey sis,
 There are no earthly words to describe how much I miss you. The past week has been a blur of sadness and wishing we had one more day. You were a rock we threw ourselves against. A deep void in my heart longs to see you loving your children, your conviction in everything you do, your nonconformity, passion, timeless efforts to speak for those without a voice, your witty sense of humor, insanely healthy eating habits, and those darn pinkie toes of yours. 
   Sacha, you blessed our world with five beautiful children whom, from your loving guidance, have the foundation to live life to its fullest. Their strength is a testament to your dedication and love.
     Yes, I did receive your message a couple days ago when you put "our" 1980s pop song on a satellite radio station that plays modern alternative rock. You always did like to mix things up and only you could have made that happen from another plane of existence! You have been in my thoughts every day of your time on this earth and will continue to do so as I pray you have found peace.
 All my love,
        Mara

I will always remember the many animated talks I had with Sacha at UP gatherings, and at dance rehearsals. She was the first Mom I met when we were new to the school, and she offered her words of advice and encouragement freely and fervently. Few people I know approach life with the passion or convictions that Sacha did, and I am so very sad to learn that she is gone. My thoughts are with her family- her husband and Senna, Mila, the lovely twins and her little son. She always made it clear, during our conversations, how much she loved each of you. It is my sincere hope that that as time goes on, it is the best and most beautiful memories that will remain most vivid for you all.

My heart is broken for you. We wish you peace and strength.
With sincere compassion,
Another Grieving Family

Sacha,

Your warm smile and great personality will always be remembered. In highschool you were admired by all for your friendly personality and your conviction (you knew what you wanted and that's it). A beautiful person whether in jeans and t-shirt or the occassional dress. 
You touched many people with your smile and kind words. From lunch, to Physics to Chiros - there are many memories. I can still see you in your Land Cruiser, music hard, windows rolled down enjoying life.

Rest in peace.
Monica

Dave and Family, We are heartbroken to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Sacha rest in peace, and may the love that she shared with her family and others continue to burn brightly in each and every one of us.

Paul

Brilliance

The word that permeates and binds every memory I have of you.

The presence you brought to those in your company, into the rooms and places that held but never contained you, and to the interests and causes that caught your attention and dedication.

The intensity of the devotion of your friends to you. One of the very best things you leave behind. A sign of great character, compassion, understanding, and realness.

Your eyes. The color and beauty and fire from within and behind them.

The undying caring for others that to my sense was such a big part of what made you Sacha. I have met few others from whom I have sensed the same.

The look on Dave's face once you were his. What you brought out from within him that no one to my eyes and experience ever did or could.

From everything I know Sacha, I remember your brilliance, some of which I hope lives on in all of us.

Your Friend,

Bill

"Memory is a passion no less powerful than love.What does it mean to remember? It is to revive fragments of existence, to rescue lost beings, to drive back the sands that cover the surface of things, to combat oblivion and to reject death."........Elie Wiesel

We share in everyone's grief. Carl and Sheila

David:

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My condolences to you, your children, and your family. The picture you've chosen of Sacha is how I will always remember her: positive, smiling, full of life.

I know I'm thousands of miles away, but if there's anything I can do, don't hesitate to ask.

-Robert

I am so thankful for Sacha's friendship. We met when Mila and Bella were in preschool and she was pregnant with the twins. I always admired her energy, knowlege and passion for her children. 

I love you Sacha and will never forget you.

Sacha

You were a funny, intelligent, direct, honest, strong and confident woman. As your nanny for a year, I was able to experience what a wonderful family you had created. I miss laughing with you over the silliest of things. You leave behind, Dave, an amazing husband and father to your children. Your children, Senna, Mila, Lyra, Nola, and Ren are creative, talented, beautiful, funny, and full of love.

Sacha, I know that you will be watching over your family. I know that you are at peace. You will be missed!

Amy

Sacha:
I'm grateful for having been in the lives of your family. Being Mila's first grade teacher was a very special year. I loved Mila so much. I soon began to love the whole family... looking forward to the day of having Lyra and Nola in my class, too. You were always so kind and encouraging. I pray for all your children, David, and you.

Mila:
I'm very sorry for your loss. Your mom was very special. I loved being your first grade teacher. You always put a smile on my face. I love your enthusiasm, intelligence, and humor. You tackled everything you faced with great force. I feel very blessed that you were a part of my life. I hope that you continue to keep in contact and let me know how you are doing. I will always be there for you.

David:
Thank you for having me as one of Mila's teachers and letting me be a part of all your children's lives. You are so fortunate to have such great children. Talent and beauty runs in the family. Please let me know if I can offer anything. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Sacha:

Your greatest achievement was loving your kids. No one can ever dispute that. I hope that Senna, Mila, Lyra, Nola, and Ren know just how deeply you love them (and Dave too). I know that you will always be with them, and you will be missed by many. I hope to be ever present in your kid's lives. I will always remind them just how much you loved and cared for them.

My heart is heavy, but I know that you have found peace.
Doug Miller
"Mr. Doug"

Sacha,
I don't know where to start. We met when we were 14 at Salpointe. You were intense, smart, funny, complicated, and a loyal friend. You were an aggressive broomball player, you spoke your mind, you were an individual, and passionate. You never changed and I loved that about you. The last time we communicated it was by text on Thanksgiving. I wish I would have picked up that phone and called you. Just to hear your voice once more. I've been going through pictures, emails, other stuff and it's hard for me to accept that you are really not here anymore.
I remember the conversation I had with Dave when he wanted me to hook you 2 up (which I did help out with!) We were in Telluride and were talking about high school and Dave said, "I've always had a crush on Sacha. She is soooo HOT." And the rest is history. You created the most beautiful family with him and I so hope I can get to know them better and watch them grow up. 
I was just looking at pics of when you were pregnant with the twins and how ginormous you were! This giant round belly and skinny frame. I came down to help drive Senna and Mila around because you were supposedly on "bed rest." Is anybody else laughing because you really didn't know the meaning of bed rest!! You never did, even when you were sick in grad school. I came out to hang out with you when you got out of the hospital, and you ended up taking care of me! 
You always took good care of everyone around you. I have so so many good, funny, warm memories of times we spent together in the last 31 years. I'm trying to focus on all those fun times and focus on how grateful I am to have had a friend like you in my life. I love you and you'll always be in my heart!

Christy

Peace to you, Sacha. And peace to those who loved you. Your children are so beautiful . . .

Prayers for the peaceful repose of Sacha's soul and for comfort and love to surround Dave and the children.

It was with deep sadness that I learned of your passing. You were wonderful person and will be missed dearly. I will miss catching up with, and trading Christmas cards with you. There is a bigger and brighter star shining in the sky now...

Sacha:

You were always sincere and direct with me in HS and proved to be a good friend, when I sometimes had difficulty knowing who my friends were. I never doubted your sincerity and friendship, you never gave me a reason to. I miss swapping Christmas cards with you and family pictures. I loved our 2am IM chats, swapping stories on our trials and tribulations raising infants. Loved your stories! I'll always remember your smile and unforgettable laugh! God Speed, Sacha

Sacha:

I hope you have found peace wherever you may be. Thank you for the moments of calm we shared together, and for your dedication to your family. I'm happy to hear from all those who knew you better and have so much love for you. May you live on in their hearts and minds.

John

Dave & Family ~ we are so very grief stricken to learn of this unspeakable loss to your family. We only had 3 years together to share our lives and your wonderful family at Westminster. We love you all and send you our hugs, tears, prayers and love to you all.
Sacha - you are a beacon of strength, conviction and motherhood.
Cris & the WPPK Staff

Oh Sacha! So crazy that just before I heard you were gone I was remembering our lunches at Pizza Hut- we always got the personal pan pizza and the salad bar. We had so many close talks and I remember how much I looked forward to that time with you. ( you ALWAYS had to drive, you never let me drive). Then there was prom. You and Danny picked me up and we took pictures. My parents said, maybe she will marry Danny and she will be "Sacha Smeester." You were always honest, kind to me and I really felt like you were a good friend. I will ALWAYS remember your beautiful face, your solid advice and how happy our friendship made me feel. Rest in peace. May your beautiful family find peace and comfort in your memory. Goodbye dear friend.
Carolyn (C.J.)

Sasha,
I didn't know much about you, but I have met you before and know your daughter, Senna. We will miss you very much and will stay in our hearts.

Sarah Hardan

Sacha, I have no words to say my sorrow, I can only pray you are at peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your David and the girls.

Kirsten

The fox gazed at the little prince, for a long time.

"Please--tame me!" he said.

"I want to, very much," the little prince replied. "But I have not much time. I have friends to discover, and a great many things to understand."

"One only understands the things that one tames," said the fox. "Men have no more time to understand anything. They buy things all ready made at the shops. But there is no shop anywhere where one can buy friendship, and so men have no friends any more. If you want a friend, tame me . . ."

"What must I do, to tame you?" asked the little prince.

"You must be very patient," replied the fox. "First you will sit down at a little distance from me--like that--in the grass. I shall look at you out of the corner of my eye, and you will say nothing. Words are the source of misunderstandings. But you will sit a little closer to me, every day . . ."

Sacha,

Your passion for your family touched me deeply. I know you loved and were loved greatly. It has been a long time, my friend, but please know that I always cared very much about you and your family. You really brought five amazing human beings into this world. I'm sure you will continue to love them and watch over them from above. You will be missed.

Love,
Shelli

The fox gazed at the little prince, for a long time.

"Please--tame me!" he said.

"I want to, very much," the little prince replied. "But I have not much time. I have friends to discover, and a great many things to understand."

"One only understands the things that one tames," said the fox. "Men have no more time to understand anything. They buy things all ready made at the shops. But there is no shop anywhere where one can buy friendship, and so men have no friends any more. If you want a friend, tame me . . ."

"What must I do, to tame you?" asked the little prince.

"You must be very patient," replied the fox. "First you will sit down at a little distance from me--like that--in the grass. I shall look at you out of the corner of my eye, and you will say nothing. Words are the source of misunderstandings. But you will sit a little closer to me, every day . . ."

Sacha, your passion for your family touched me deeply. I know you loved and were loved greatly. It has been a long time, but please know that I always cared very much about your family. You really brought five amazing human beings into this world. I'm sure you will continue to love them and watch over them from above. You will be missed.

Love,
Shelli

Sacha,

My heart breaks for you and your family. You were one of the strongest, most passionate and smartest person I know. You were the person I called when I had questions about anything and you always had an answer/opinion for me. I will miss you so much.

Shirley

Dear Sacha,

I first was introduced to you by Shelli. It was Lydia and Mila's kindergarten year at UP. Even though our girls were in the same grade at school, our paths had not crossed that year. We clicked because of our West Coast connection. I got to know you a little better the next year when you moved two doors down from us on Stanford Ave.

You always wanted the best for your kiddos! In second grade Mila and Lydia were in the same class. Mila always had the healthiest, most well thought out lunches.....you made sure of it! They often consisted of sushi and always organic!!!! Also, you wanted them to have the best activities, even if it meant sacrificing your lifestyle. The kiddos were in the best art classes(Kid Art) and the best school(Westminster).  You even worked part time at Park Cities Dance, so all of your kiddos could participate in what you considered the top dance program in the area. 

Sacha, you were blessed with five beautiful, smart and talented children. All of your children are "survivors" like you.  I know that you will watch over them as they grow. They will continue to make you proud!. Rest in peace, Sacha.


Suzanne England

You have been my friend so long….You are one of a kind. I will miss your laugh and smile and big heart.

I will love you now and forever,
Cindy

Sach...my sister, my friend:

My love for you remains insurmountable. I've spent my entire life loving you, so desperately trying for you not to let go of my hand. Whether it was playing music on your voicemail, calling you 10 times in one day (I can be persistent, or a pain, but you always picked up) or showing up for coffee unannounced. We have the same sneeze... I now find comfort in it. I miss your dry humor, I miss your amazingly direct laugh, I miss you every second.

I love you so much and I hope you are now gently at peace.

Love,
Meg

Sacha,
I did not know you very much, but I know you daughter, Senna. We all miss you and are keeping you in our hearts forever.

Sacha:

We used to say this to each other and have a little battle over it. I'd say "I love you", you'd say "I love you", then I'd say "I love you more", then you'd say "I love you most". I'd then say "I love you Infinity and Beyond". I'd always win the battle with you, except you passed on this tradition of infinite "I love you's" to our children as you fully returned to their lives, and they are so full of your passion (and sometimes your "piss and vinegar"!), they'll never let me win. You gave them the gift of your love and now they will make sure we all have it forever.

Loving you has always been a battle of one kind or another, but infinite "I love you's" was always the best one. Now that you have reached Infinity and Beyond, I know your love is victorious.

I love you Infinity and Beyond with many tears and all my heart!

Love,

Dave

Mom:

You were one of the greatest people to ever walk this earth. The people you met will remember your glowing smile and wonderful personality forever. I love you!

Senna

i love you so much and I always will. I try not to cry, but you always say it is good to let go of your emotions. I try to smile and not think about what has happened, but I want to remember you in all the good ways possible and see you as I go to the places that I went with you. I love you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
love you beyond infinity and beyond,
mila

ps: I know that you love candles, so I chose leave a candle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!