You can shed tears that he is gone,

Or you can smile because he has lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back,

Or you can open your eyes and see all he's left.

These very words were delivered by Sigma Nu president, Mark Parise, at a vigil held in honor of Andrew James Mogni.

Shortly after arriving in Rome for a study abroad program, the active fraternity member and University of Iowa student was assaulted, and left in critical condition. While in a medical coma and fighting off infections for months, Andrew had the strength to push through and get himself home, where he belonged. After being airlifted to The Northwestern Hospital in Chicago and reunited with his entire family, Andrew passed away on Easter Sunday.

While stomaching the lost life of an incredible and young man is beyond difficult, there is comfort in knowing that Andrew spent every second as if it were his last. Touching the lives of those from his hometown, to MDA camp, University of Iowa students, and complete strangers, Andrew had a way with everyone.

There is no stronger feeling than hearing a completely full ballroom erupt in applause. As family and friends shared stories, and spoke about their love for Andrew, the applauses that followed brought a true sense of community. This community was formed by a common medium – every person in that room had the opportunity to let Andrew touch their lives.

As stories were shared, tears and laughter were embraced, in honor of a truly amazing human. Memories of Andrew were representative of his ability to be the life of every party, but be also the voice of reason, and the constant shoulder for so many to lean on.

Although a lost life is always heart breaking, a life well lived is easily celebrated. Between the outpour of messages, posts, letters, prayers, and the attendance at both his funeral in Chicago and the vigil in Iowa City, it is very clear that Andrew is a man who will never be forgotten.

As explained by his father at the vigil, “the best thing you can do for us, is to keep Andrew in your memories, and never forget the things he did and the way he made people feel".

Throughout his life and even through his passing, Andrew was capable of setting an example, for how this precious life should be lived. As Andrew himself said in a tweet, a year ago, “live everyday like your last people- life is amazing.".

Andrew James Mogni, you truly are a legend, and you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, for you are forever in all of our hearts.