re: Tiger fans who you wish were here, but will be watching from heaven this weekend

Well, I've got a little Tiger up there all decked out in purple, gold, and white - yes plenty of white. He was only with us for four months and the 2001 season was about to get under way when he passed. His LSU gear was waiting on him for the first game.

It was not meant to be. He was in need of many surgeries to repair a windpipe (trachea) that ended at the collar bone. Looking back I realize
that all things work for the best. He would have led a painful and perhaps unfulfilled life at best.

It has been said that winning is best viewed through a kids eyes. Given this wonderful decade of LSU sports, I can imagine how much fun it would have been for despite his condition.

Nevertheless, the story does not end on a sad note. After, Ryan's passing I was soon blessed with another son. He and I always laugh, shout, and high five each other first when LSU wins the really big ones. Then we'll look up briefly as if to wonder if Ryan is watching, praying, etc.

OP here...I was away from the computer for about 7 hours and just came back to see that this thread really took off! I have read every single word of every post....thanks to everyone for sharing their great memories of their dearly departed Tiger fans. I truly have enjoyed reading them and have even had a few laughs to go with some tears...this has been very therapeutic for me...and apparently my Dad won't be the only one rooting for the Tigers from heaven above this Saturday

I would say my grandmother from Tallulah. She would get so upset she would walk out 10 times a game to go outside and smoke. She hated seeing LSU lose.

I am sorta glad. She would have really been stoked and wouldn't survive it.

OK , I vote this as one of the MOST depressing rant threads EVER
That said my Dad and my brother Randy would both be jacked for this game and I know they are pulling for us.!

The Kingfish.

Hang in there 504....strength from above.

My aunt June, who died young and loved the tigers more than any Chick on earth...

She'll be at the game for certain.

Last time I saw her was the NC sugar bowl against Oklahoma.

My grandfather who brought me to my first games. He passed away on the same day that LSU lost to Auburn in 2004 with that terrible call against Ronnie Prude. Thankfully he got to experience the 2003 championship. Would love to have him here for this game.

My prayers go out to fontc and his dad and family as well. My dad John V. who played for LSU back in the late 20's & early 30's... He instilled a love in me for LSU that has never wavered, we went to all kinds of LSU sports events, even when I was a little kid, 5 years old I was in the stands, east sideline what is now section 302, Billy Cannon's run. Dad NEVER left an game early, telling me it was disrespectful and I can never remember him ever booing...He passed in '92 and we were going to LSU events right up to the end. He would absolutely love what LSU football has become, Les Miles and I know he's going to be watching with great excitement come Saturday!!!