“She just really knew how to love life. She really knew how to live.”
This sentiment and many others like it echoed to the crowd of hundreds of students that collected at the EMU amphitheater for a candlelight vigil to mourn the death of University of Oregon student Nicole Panet-Raymond, 19, who was found on Mt. Bachelor on March 2.
Panet-Raymond, a sophomore, was part of the Clark Honors College and a member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority. Friends spoke to Panet-Raymond’s kind demeanor and cheerful personality, and how she always wanted to make you laugh.
Nicole Panet-Raymond’s friends and classmates share stories about her life. University of Oregon students gathered for a candlelight vigil to celebrate the life of Nicole Panet-Raymond in the Erb Memorial Union Amphitheater on Mar. 7, 2018. (Natalie Waitt-Gibson/Emerald)
“You knew that she was this powerful, fierce woman,” said Hannah, a friend from St. Mary’s Academy where Panet-Raymond attended high school.
The vigil was put on by UO’s Fraternity and Sorority Life, and it was emphasized that the vigil was a safe place for everyone to share their stories and celebrate the life of Panet-Raymond.
“I’ll remember that she really loved Shakira,” a friend said, causing a ripple of laughter through the crowd.
Another vigil was held at Panet-Raymond’s elementary school Rieke Elementary School on March 3.
Panet-Raymond was found on Mt. Bachelor by the White Bark run and was one of two skiers to die that day from falling into a tree well.
Students are encouraged to contact the counseling center if they need emotional support at 541.346.3227.
Follow Erin Carey on Twitter: @erinlcarey
