Thinking of You All Today

To all Tombol's family & friends,

My husband worked at American School for many years with Tombol's mom & sister. Just to let you all know you are in our thoughts and prayers today. God be with every one of you.

Blessings, Mary Derr

ANGEL

I found this the other day. My birthday is never the same without you in this world. Miss your smile.

I gaze outside my window
And wish upon a star.
I open up my heart
And let my thoughts drift afar.
A tear rolls down my cheek
As I reminisce the past.
You hardly got to live.
Your life went by so fast.
And all because someone else
Made a dumb mistake.
I don't understand why it was
Your life he had to take.
But now there's no way I can bring you back
No matter how hard I try.
Because now you're up in heaven
As my angel standing by.

Aliya

Latest Information on the Murder Case of Tombol Malik

After both Muaz Haffar and Mantas Matulis Failed to Respond to Repeated Notices Over Several Years, a Default Judgement was Awarded to the Malik Family on April 14, 2009 in the Civil Case SAMIL MALIK V. MUAZ HAFFAR and MANTAS MATULIS (No. 05 L 8278). Judge Donald J. O'Brien Jr. Ruled in the Amount of $4,000,000 Under the Wrongful Death and Survival Actions.


We, The Malik Family, Are Pleased with this Civil Judgement and Would Like to Thank Our Lawyer, Shawn Kasserman, and the Law Firm of Corboy & Demetrio, for Their Ongoing Commitment and Expertise Toward this Case. It is Both Commedable and Rare that a Case of this Nature--Involving No Lucrative Insurance Claim--is Retained by a Top Personal Injury Firm.


However, We Emphasize this is Not a Final Judgement But a Significant Step Toward Ultimately Bringing Muaz Haffar Back to the United States to Face Justice. Not Only Does the Relatively High Amount Awarded Represent the True Weight of the Evidence Against Haffar and Matulis, But Also, We Hope the Collection Efforts on this Judgement Will Make it Harder for Muaz to Receive Funds From Family and Friends While Hiding in Syria...

Muaz Haffar, Skipped Bail and Fled the Country in July, 2005. Today He Remains a Fugitive Despite Concerted Effort on the Part of the Malik Family to Have Him Brought to Justice. In January, 2006 We Discovered A Video of Muaz Haffar Dancing in Syria! You Can Access that Video at the Following Link: Muaz Haffar Dancing Video! Scroll Down to "Damascus Nightlife."

Mantas Matulis was Found Guilty of Second Degree Murder on Monday, April 16th, 2007. He was Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison on May 18th, 2007.



The following is the full text of the pre-sentencing statement given by Judge Stanley J. Sacks in People vs. Mantas Matulis, on May 18, 2007:

Thank you Mr. Gillespie. I would point out, first of all, I have read the pre-sentence investigation in great detail. There’s some other documents that were attached to it which I’ll just mention for the record what they were.

It looks like a Hinsdale Township High School grade report, or a report card I guess it is. A Hinsdale South High School Most Improved student Award dated June 6, 2002, for Mantas Matulis, and there’s a letter with that indicating based on why he was given that award.

Hinsdale South High School certificates indicating Mr. Matulis earned letters in varsity volleyball, football, and then there’s some documentation concerning, I believe, something to do with his citizenship. I guess I forget to add one thing in here, also he’s a very good soccer player as well, according to the pre-sentence investigation report.

The court has considered all of the factors in aggravation and mitigation, the statutes, and also considered the following relevant considerations as well: The nature of the crime. In this case it may have been Mantas Matulis who inflicted the mortal wounds on Tombol Malik, it may not have been. It doesn’t matter anyway. He and his able assistant, Muaz Haffar, were acting in concert, and Tombol Malik is dead as a result of that, of that acting in concert between Muaz Haffar and Mantas Matulis.

I have one point I want to get into before I get into my final comments. That the defendant’s family appears very nice, his mother and the other people that are here for Mantas Matulis, but they are not the ones sitting before me. It isn’t for me to decide what to do with them, they didn’t do anything wrong.

His mother seems like a very nice woman. It is not Mrs. Matulis that I have to deal with, it’s Mantas Matulis. And I believe Mrs. Matulis was generally sorry from her viewpoint to the family of Tombol Malik. But her viewpoints don’t change the fact of what happened back in July of 2005.

I mention one thing in addition to the factors set forth in the statute, the nature of the crime, the man, Tombol Malik was a young fellow who was literally beaten to death, not a whole long way from here, actually with a bicycle lock, and by being kicked as well. And I’ll get to that again in a little while.

The nature of the crime, the protection of the public, deterrence, punishment, defendant’s rehabilitative prospects, and youth. And the mere fact I would point out that the jury finds a mitigating factor does not obligate the court to impose a minimum-type sentence.

As far as Mr. Matulis’ rehabilitative potential, it’s clear to me at least that Mantas Matulis does not seem to be willing to accept any responsibility for the death of Tombol Malik. In spite of overwhelming evidence, Mantas Matulis kicked the man who was laying on the ground unconscious anywhere, depending on the witnesses, from one to several times depending on their vantage point when they came out. Matulis maintained at trial that only Muaz Haffar kicked the man.

Matulis asks me in essence to believe that the victim in this case was not Tombol Malik, but the victim in this case is Mantas Matulis. That Mantas Matulis was merely being or attempting to be a good Samaritan, that he tried to, according to his trial testimony, pull Muaz Haffar off of Tombol Malik, and that’s how he supposedly got the blood on his shoe and on his leg, Tombol Malik’s blood.

It’s insulting that he would suggest he was a good Samaritan. It’s insulting to suggest that he’s a victim in this case. I always talk about cases where we have circumstantial evidence. In my opinion, that’s the best evidence you could possibly have. While witnesses may be mistaken, witnesses maybe lying about something, circumstantial evidence is inanimate. It has no basis to lie or be mistaken.

All of the witnesses who identified the people involved in this incident, to me it seems much more credible that while none can say, identify Mantas Matulis, they all agree basically that there were four people down in the cul-de-sac. We know one of them, unfortunately, was Tombol Malik. We know one of them was Anthony Popelka. We know one of them was Mantas Matulis. We know one of them was Muaz Haffar.

And the witnesses described them basically the same way, three taller guys and one short stocky guy. And we know from the evidence circumstantially that the short stocky guy was Muaz Haffar, that the other three taller guys were Popelka, Malik, and Mantas Matulis.

And the witnesses we already know circumstantially and otherwise that Popelka remained at the scene. He was one of the taller guys. That Malik, unfortunately, remained at the scene, he was one of the other taller guys, and that the third taller guy, according to the witnesses and the evidence circumstantially and directly, was Mantas Matulis.

And the witnesses described the taller guy who we know from the evidence is Mantas Matulis, as going over to the man on the ground, who we also know is Tombol Malik, and kicking the man anywhere from one to several times while he lay there on the ground unconscious, defenseless, with his arms pretty much down at his side.

And talk about rehabilitative potential. Matulis maintains, as I said before, he was merely a good Samaritan. He tries to explain away overwhelming evidence that he kicked the man by saying it was Haffar who kicked him, the short stocky guy. And all the witnesses, while not saying by face it was Mantas Matulis, circumstantially it’s clear that it was the tall guy in this case that it could circumstantially be is Mantas Matulis.

He makes a feeble, incredible attempt to say he didn’t kick the man when the man’s blood is on Mantas Matulis. He tries to convince us that he’s a good Samaritan, he tried to help the guy out, to get Muaz off him. And yet he leaves the man laying there in the cul-de-sac dying, and runs off with Muaz Haffar.

As I said before, some people accept responsibility, some only take responsibility when it’s thrust upon them. Often times I’ll read cases and I’ll pick out words here and there that I think might be appropriate in a given situation, I try to remember them or write them down or make a note of them, whatever.

And I think the appropriate wording that would apply to Mantas Matulis on July 9, 2005, is that Mantas Matulis showed a callous indifference to life. Participating in kicking the man when he was down and unconscious, and then running off and leaving the man there to die.

It’s true that Mantas Matulis comes from a nice family, apparently a good relationship with his mother, with his stepfather, even with his father who lives in Lithuania by writing to him, communicating with him, went to Bradley University, and apparently from his own statement in court today, much of which is about Mantas Matulis, how well he’s done, he’s gone to school.

And that’s sort of, I would say, a half-hearted apology to the family of Tombol Malik, sorry what happened. Not exactly as glowing apology about what he did, just sorry it happened, more or less.

I received a letter from what’s referred to as the Kolbe House, K-o-l-b-e, it’s the Catholic jail-prison ministry. And apparently various clergymen go around and talk to inmates in the jail. The letter is dated May 16, two days ago. Paragraph 2 I underscored in yellow to me it seems so contrary to what I’ve seen about Mantas Matulis.

It’s hard to reconcile the Mantas Matulis I see with the orange jumpsuit and the Mantas Matulis that the clergy apparently saw in the jail: "I have come to know Mantas Matulis as a man who sincerely regrets any participation in the acts that led to the death of another person. His remorse I believe is sincere. He accepts responsibility for his actions."

I don’t see that at all of Mantas Matulis, accepting responsibility. He left a young man dying on a cobblestone cul-de-sac. That’s hardly accepting responsibility.

The priest or reverend, I guess it is, goes on: "His time in protective custody, though not easy, has also been well-used in reflecting about his life, the consequence of his actions had on his own family and that of his victim. Though, in quotes, jail conversion unquote, are often the case, I believe in the truthfulness of Mantas’ words when he says to me that he has changed."

Changed from what? He maintains he didn’t do anything. What’s there to change about under those circumstances? It’s just another effort on Mantas Matulis’ part to avoid responsibility for his complicity in the murder of Tombol Malik.

Going on further, the reverend: "His actions while in jail have been to help others, to find peace in his heart." And the next four words to me are outrageous: "And to respect life."

A man that is willing, able and does in fact kick a man who is on the ground unconscious, talk about with a straight face respecting life, when his conduct on that evening, as I said before, shows a callous indifference to human life, not a respect for it.

Mr. Matulis has been basically ever since that night, or on that night, running to avoid responsibility. After he and his able assistant left Tombol Malik laying on the cobblestone cul-de-sac, he runs off. When the police see him not too far way, he again runs off. Again both times leaving the man, a young man, literally dying in the cul-de-sac.

And he can expect me to believe for a second that he has learned to respect life? He has no respect for life whatsoever. And his apologies today were more or less to his family and his friends: I’m sorry, mom; I’m sorry for the people who are out there for me.

As I said before, the comments directed to Tombol Malik’s family are almost an insult. They are not in my opinion a genuine expression of sorrow, they merely express sorrow for Mantas Matulis, that he’s here in this situation, not that he’s sorry for what happened to Tombol Malik.

One thing that was mentioned during closing arguments, of course I told the jurors to disregard it, but what was said during closing arguments by Mr. Matulis’ lawyer, who is a very excellent lawyer in my opinion, a very fine lawyer, somewhere along the line he said send Mantas home to his mother. If it would bring back Tombol Malik, I might consider sending him home to his mother, but that is a factual [im] possibility.

As Mr. Gillespie correctly said, no matter what I do here this morning, it will never bring back Tombol Malik, unfortunately. Matulis’ mother can visit him in the penitentiary. She can talk to him, she can look at him. Maybe where he’s at she may even be able to reach across the window and touch him. Those are not luxuries that the family of Tombol Malik has. The only place they can see Tombol Malik is in photographs, a picture perhaps on a tombstone somewhere.

At some point or another Mantas Matulis will be getting out. He will live again, whether it’s here or in Lithuania, wherever it happens to be. That’s not a luxury the family of Tombol Malik has.

Up until this case I’ve never heard a case of a beating homicide. But this one I can imagine takes the cake. This man was beaten so severely that a photograph taken from shortly afterward is unrecognizable that it’s Tombol Malik. You can see a face, but you can’t recognize who it is because of the conduct of Mantas Matulis and his able sidekick, Muaz Haffar.

The Court is well-aware of what the statutory range is for the crime of murder in the second degree, the offense that the jury found Mr. Matulis guilty of. This is not a situation where Mr. Matulis was merely standing by and watching, doing nothing. He was an active participant, and at every step of the way he’s tried to avoid that responsibility. I think at some point it has to end.

Mr. Matulis, on the charge of murder in the second degree for the murder of Tombol Malik, the sentence of this Court will be 18 years in the Department of Corrections.

Judge Stanley J. Sacks



The Following is the Full Text of the "Victim Impact Statement" Read to the Court, Prior to Sentencing, by Shiera Malik on Behalf of the Malik Family:

"It's like phantom limb syndrome. Losing our youngest in such a vicious and brutal manner has left a deep and painful chasm in our hearts. We were 4; Sati, Samil, Tombol and myself were 4. In a moment, we became 3. We imagine an amputation.

Early on a Saturday morning, our mother received a call from a Chicago news reporter saying that a Tombol Malik had died in the night and did she know this person. She called Sati upset about a prank call. Sati went straight over to her. The morgue confirmed that a Tombol Malik was there. When Mom and boys arrived at the morgue to identify the body, Tombol’s slender feet and arms were perfectly recognizable; his curly hair was still perfectly scuplted from the gel that he liked to use when he went out. His face was shattered and smashed flat – so much so, Mom said that he was not her son. She refused to identify him.

When I returned home from a night out with some friends, I found a frightening message from Sati.

Tombol is dead. Mom refuses to believe it. I was on the next flight out of Dublin.

It took two weeks for our father to get a visa. Meanwhile, he was forced to wait in Cairo and Tombol waited in the morgue. Since our mother refused to claim Tombol's body, we had to wait to send him to a funeral home.

The loss of our brother has been brutal in every way. The process of justice is brutal, watching our parents is brutal. Looking at one another, aware of what each of us has lost is brutal. Also brutal is the complete confusion, lack of comprehension, the frustration, and the anger. What happened is inexplicable. No one expects this, but some may be less surprised. We are stunned. Our Tombol was never in a fight, not once. He was not an aggressive soul; he was not a person needing constant consolation for insecurities. The picture we received of his final moments of a college boy riding his bike around a car while his friend talked to some girls was instantly recognizable to all of us who knew him. He did not need to fight for attention. He was happy to do his own thing. He was an artist; he spent hours drawing. This was a past time that followed him from boyhood when instead of sitting in front of the television he would go off and draw. But he was not a recluse. He loved music, sports; he was a wonderful dancer and athlete. He was also socially aware and active. In 2003/4, he volunteered as a court advocate for children here in Chicago; when in Brazil he gave his money in charity to poor kids in Rio; and he created photo-documentation of the Stockyards. He was a critical thinker beyond his years. The four of us are passionate about politics and our social world; from a young age Tombol had an agility of mind and a level of self awareness that was out of step with others in his age bracket. We like to think that a wonderful brother so adored by us felt able to simply be his wonderful self. Perhaps he would have been like this anyway. It's hard to tell. This personality of his was visible even in his infancy. Regardless, he is now dead.

He has been robbed of his future. He had many plans, one of which would have already occurred. Last year, he was to study in Germany and photograph the World Cup.

And we have been robbed of our future with him. We will never know how his body would have filled out with age, how he would have continued to grow and learn – this brother we watched in adoration from his first day of life. His 25th birthday just passed. This end for a young man who loathed naked aggression! This picture of him as an aggressor would be laughable if it weren't, again, so brutal.

Thus, in an instant our lives changed through no act of our own. We watched this process and this vicious murderer who sits through this trial showing no remorse, who steals our brother's last words as his own. It is brutal. To date, his partner has been able to avoid justice. This is the partner who bragged about his physical domination of Tombol. This is the partner who corroborated Anthony’s story that this killer was bleeding, that Anthony asked if he was ok. In response, they set upon Tombol and Anthony. The brutality is unfathomable.

Each of us has suffered through nightmares, feelings of depression, inability to sleep or concentrate. It is, fundamentally, shock from a world turned upside down; a world we cannot right. A world, in which, we have been forced to make different decisions about our own lives. We understand our own suffering, but, as I said, watching our parents has been brutal. Our mother, in particular, still refuses to acknowledge the murder of Tombol. In the weeks after Tombol was murdered she left messages on his machine imploring him to call us. Even today, while his killer sits here our mother has still not acknowledged Tombol’s death. We worry that she is holding out hope that some day her son may come back to her. So, in addition to managing our own feelings of trauma, we are painfully aware of our responsibilities to our family and to our incredible brother. Finally, we want to say to the court that we have sat through the impersonal, yet strangely intimate trial process, we now want it on the record that our boy was a truly remarkable and kind soul.

He did not deserve this. We do not deserve this. We thank you for the opportunity to speak."

For further information about the case please call The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County: (773) 869-3140 (Case Number # 05CR188502)

Tombol

TO THE MALIK FAMILY:

Just talking about Tombol and Theo a couple of days ago (those trips to New York). He was a gem and will always be in our hearts. Theo, being the young man he is, doesn't cry often, but he lost a TRUE friend in Tombol so the tears were visible.

Some people leave an impression on our lives, your Tombol was one of those!

He will always be in our thoughts and you in our prayers.

God Bless You All,

Mary Carolyn Avent

Happy Belated Birthday Tombol!!!

Dearest Tombol,

Eventhough a few days have past since your 27th birthday, in Heaven, we are rejoicing that you lived with us for the short time God alloted to your beloved family, friends and acquaintances!!! Ever in our hearts!!!!

Love,
The Jackson Family

Happy 27th Birthday Tombol

HAPPY 27TH BIRTHDAY TOMBOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Even though we are devoid of your physical presence on this earth, you live in my heart forever. Today is your birthday and it will be celebrated just as you celebrated your loved ones. I salute your life and this day will never be forgotten. I love you always and I thank you for being my angel. Missing you until we see each other again...

1.4.3
Your Stephanie
--
Stephanie R. Jackson

TOMBOL

Tombol,

So, I may be slightly early, but during the first week of April my thoughts immediately go to you. Happy birthday, buddy. I miss you like crazy and think of you often.

Love always,
Aliya

In a Time of Thankfulness...

It's been years since we've spoken out loud. Yet the holidays always
find me talking to you. And now, as I try to type, I feel my thoughts
going all over the place. I thank you for always listening to me even
when I dont know the words that I want to say.

I remember you as a scrawny baseball player on the HPK White Sox team
(I think you were 9 at the time). I remember you at Ray and Kenwood.
I remember friendly interactions between your group of friends and my
group of friends. Always a sweet kid. Always a gentleman. So much
has happened in this world and I believe your magnetic personality and
passionate beliefs have helped to make so much of the good happen. I
thank you for all that you've done and all that you continue to do by
inspiring and being a driving force for so many.

A couple of weeks ago I worked at an event that promoted community
healing, especially for the families who have lost loved ones to
violence and as we did the praise circle we yelled out the names of
the lost ones, I yelled your name and prayed for justice. Thank you
for being my strength as an organizer and an individual.

During the holidays, I always find myself reminiscing about my family;
thinking about people who are or were in my life and where they are
now; praying for more years of happiness with those I love; most of
all I think about the importance of telling people I love them. It is
a cliche to give more during the holidays but I believe it's one of
those actions that we can never give too much of. So, even though
I've missed the actual day of your birth, many occasions to talk with
you in person, an never got a chance to get to know your family - I
love you and your family. What you all have taught me is invaluable.
I am thankful for your brilliant presence although too short and I am
thankful for your family molding you into an astounding and loving
man.

Happy Turkey's to YOU Tombol!

Love Liz Wilkinson

Obama

Dear Tombol,

I wish you were here today to attend the event in Grant Park for Obama! I know how excited you would be! The significance of today is overwhelming. My thoughts are both with you as they will be forever and for Obama on this very decisive and historic day.

Sincerely,
Niki Tsuruta

Tombol

Dear Tombol,

Seems like yesterday we were both laughing away. Thinking about you today.

Love always,

Aliya

To Me

I talked to you today about my travels to Italy and England! We talked about hanging out within the next day or two to talk further about what had been some of the most exciting times of my life. I knew you wanted to hear all about the trip! Your face would light up whenever you heard stories of someone's travels. It was as if you were putting yourself in that same moment, experiencing what the other experienced on their journey in foreign terrain. I will definitely tell you all about it this weekend when I see you! I'm going to see you this weekend...

--
Stephanie R. Jackson

Happy Belated Birthday

Don't know why, but today I thought of Tombol and his family so I decided to go to this blog.

I never met Tombol or the Malik family but I have posted here in the past to send my condolences. I understand that April 3rd would have been Tombol's 26th birthday. His death at such a young age is so jarring. I can't even imagine what his family is going through.

My condolences again, and happy belated birthday Tombol.

K.G.

Happy Birthday to You

Dear Tombol,

A friend of mine bought me a digital picture frame last year. I immediately loaded it with pictures of those who are close to me. I mean, I am living in Switzerland… can you believe it?! So, I need some remnants from home every now and then. Anyway, that picture of us, the one from the opening with Lana… well, I had to put it in there. I have the frame next to the place I get dressed every morning. The pictures change every 10 seconds, and sometimes I get to catch a glimpse of you before I head to class. I always smile. Yesterday was your 26th birthday, and I thought of you and wondered what you were doing. I miss you. I think about you often… and I will always keep your picture loaded in my picture frame; today, tomorrow, always. Love, aliya.

Happy Birthday T-Bone

While this comes a couple days late, I just wanted you to know that you have not been forgotten (you never are) and I hope that you had a happy, happy, birthday up there, partying with all the other angels. =) We truly do miss you down here though! Hugs and kisses...

Love eternally,
Miriam Y.

Happy Birthday to Beloved Tombol

Our Dearest Tombol,

Our family thought lovingly of you on your 26th birthday, which just passed by 15 minutes. We just had to pause and reflect on how precious you are to so many who will always keep you in their hearts and minds with love!!!!!!!!!

The Jackson Family

You Are Missed

Tombol, not a day goes by that I don't think about you. You are truly missed. Happy Birthday.

Love,
Eileen

HAPPY 26TH BIRTHDAY MY TOMBOL

Good Morning My Tombol (I told you that you would always be My Tombol even though I know I have to share you with everyone who loves you ;)! HAPPY 26TH BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Not having you to talk to, to hug, to laugh with, to be with is still so very difficult for me to deal with. I once asked your brother how he deals with you not being here and I knew I could only get one answer..."I don't have a choice". I guess I was looking for another way not to believe any of what had happened to you, My Tombol. You are supposed to be here with us...you are supposed to be here.

Tombol I love you so very much and I just wish I could tell you to your beautiful face. Sometimes I pray to be able to see you just one more time, but I have to be patient until my time here on earth is done. Honestly I find myself searching for pieces of you through your family from their smiles, their laughs and their mannerisms to the shape of their fingers, because I know you live in them always. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about you and I just can't wait until the day I see you again.

My Tombol I Love You Forever. HAPPY 26TH BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Just Read The Blog

Dear Malik Family and Samil~

Reading your blog has bought me to tears. I cannot imagine what it feels like to have someone so precious to you taken away. I hope justice is eventually served. I unfortunately never had the pleasure of meeting Tombol but from what I read on the blog and from what I heard from Samil he was an amazing human being and the world is at a lose without him in it.

God Bless,

Purvi Patel

with love, today and always

Tombol, you are in my thoughts and prayers, today and always. May your memory be eternal. With my love, Eve Tselepatiotis

Tombol: Remembering and Paying Tribute

Hey Tombol,

Well, it's been two years...hard to believe. Some days it seems like so long ago, then others like yesterday. Either way, not a day goes by that you usually don't cross my mind in some fashion or another - whether it's just a random thought that pops into mind or something I hear or see that reminds me of you. So how are you doing? I'm sure all is well where you are and you are always looking down on us. I hope you and my father are enjoying each other's company...perhaps playing a game of Risk or something. =) Sorry I cannot be home with your family this time, but they are in my thoughts and heart, especially today, as well. You know that some justice for you has already been served, but we still await the rest. Karma is a powerful thing, as I know you know...you always made sure to be so kind to others. Where karma was in that moment two years ago this day, I'm not sure, but karma will always be and the same will be done for the one remaining to bring the remainder of justice home for you. I love you and miss you - a ton of people do - you know this. A flood of thoughts and feelings will be coming your way this day...and all to pay the tribute and rememberance you so deserve!

You are never forgotten...love,
Miriam

Tombol

My dearest Tombol,

Even writing this i am filled with extreme emotion. I was thinking about you so hard yesterday and i couldn't explain why until i looked at the date and saw that it was a day before you died 2 years ago. Sometimes, i forget what day it is, what time it is, what is even going on in the world. I saw Samil at my job the other day and he looked sooo much like you, he was just coming in for some earplugs, i just gave them
to him, didn't ask him to pay for them, i paid for them out of my own pocket because he's my family....You're my family. I remember when you died, i prayed to God to just stop the world for just a second, so that the world could recognize that "My Friend" was dead. Even though, it was an extreme request i knew if it stopped for you, it would have to stop for all the countless souls brutally murdered. I love you, Tombol. I always have. I should have told you how much but i know it's better that i didn't. I am always praying for the family and asking God's presence to protect them and keep them in these evil days. And i think of you always... and I smile because i'm grateful that I knew you. Love you- Kiara

Two Years

Hi little brother,

It doesn't seem like two years have past. No words can describe how much I miss you. You were the other half of me. I love you and miss our talks, your smile, your face. I miss not having a little brother anymore. You will always live in my heart and in my mind. The only other thing I'll say is..."hey there I hope everything's alright...." Rest in peace baby.

Samil

God Bless You

I never knew Tombol but I grew up in Hyde Park and was saddened to hear of his murder. I have been effected by other news stories in the past, but none have lingered with me more than Tombol's tragic death. Perhaps it is because of the heartfelt stories and pictures of Tombol on this blog. I just read the family's statement to the Court following Matulis' conviction. It effected me even more, more than I thought. I am glad to hear of Matulis' conviction, yet I know the "victory" is hollow. I hope that one day very soon Haffer will be brought to trial and made to pay with his life in prison for the tremendous hurt he has caused to Tombol's family. Reading of the difficulty Tombol's mother still has with accepting her son's murder was truly heartbreaking. I can't imagine what she, Tombol's sibilings and Tombol's father are going through. I am impressed with the dignity they have shown in the face of so much pain and no doubt anger. I am just truly sorry that the Malik family had to lose someone they so dearly loved (and still love) because two others decided to act like the Devil. Reading of the Maliks' pain puts my on daily irritations into perspective. I am so sorry for your lose but am confident that the love you showed Tombol during his life and in the wake of this tragic event will carry you through and provide some comfort for each of you, as you no doubt love each other as you love Tombol.

God bless you and Tombol,

K.G.

Best of Luck on the Trial

I was a friend of Tombol when we worked together at Banana Republic. I wish the Malik family the best for a swift and fair trial. He was a great person and I hope that justice can somehow be served.

God Speed


Denny C Theanchai

Thinking of You

Tombol. I always think of you, but today you and your family are in my thoughts.

Aliya

This Wandering Memento

Greetings and condolences to the Malik family.

My name is crystal. I too went to Ray with Tombol. My memory only serves to remind me that Tombol was a couple years older than me and was one of the older guys us younger girls wanted to know how to talk to. I never worked up the nerve to say much to Tombol in grammar school. Most of my interactions with Tombol were long after high school, in our college years, where I would run into him by chance out and around Hyde Park or by coincidence he was living with other childhood friends or a party here and there. There is no way to describe the shock I had when I heard of Tombol's unnecessary and unprovoked death. I got tangled up in confusing and selfish emotions of anger and hurt and what usually follows these distorted, passionate feelings is guilt. I regret that I have not reached out to you sooner, but i can say nothing will keep me from attending the trial to witness "justice" finally prevail, and perhaps grant Tombol's family their right to the healing process. I keep Tombol and you, his family, in my thoughts and prayers, and send a universe of righteous blessings to you all.

May justice and righteous anger prevail.
Truly,
Crystal.

A Dream!

Hi! I just woke up from a dream about Tombol and I had to let you know because he looked great. It was so weird because when I woke up it took me a while to register and remember that he wasn't here anymore and that it was just a dream. He looked really good and was playing with a band...lol. I watched him play and then gave him a huge hug when he finished I just held him for a long time and told him that I missed him. He said he missed me too but was doing good. Then we sat outside in front of a fountain that was supposed to be a replica of a waterfall and caught up about our Ray School buddies. I commented that the fountain was nice and he said that real waterfalls were so much more beautiful and that if you listened closely to their sound they spoke to you. He was so at peace and sure of himself. We talked for a little while longer about people and food and then he hugged me again kissed my cheek and said he had to run. I woke up smiling because it felt so real and he seemed so at peace. I guess I just wanted to let you guys know.

You are in my thoughts always,
Suheily Natal

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOMBOL

Happy Birthday Little Brother. Not one day goes by that I don't think of you. I miss you so much.

Love,
Samil

Happy Birthday Tombol!!!

Beloved Tombol,

You will always be in our hearts and minds forever and thus my family and I pause to reflect upon your beautiful life and legacy with much love, remembering you in a special way on this your 25th birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
Sherry Jackson
(mother of Stephanie Jackson)

A Dream

Dear Tombol,

I woke up crying in the middle of the night with you on my mind. It was kind of weird...out of no where...flashbacks of good times when we were growing up...and then fast forward to the that awful day. In some way, I hope that is a sign that things will get moving on your case. I miss you greatly...everyone does...and we want to see justice brought to you soon. We all know what a good person you were and you deserve nothing less. One does not need to go to a physical reminder, to pay respects, but the next time I am home, I want to - just to feel closer to you for a moment. I know where you are and I will plan to stop by and say "hi". =)

Love you always,
Miriam

Tombol

My name is Nate Granatir. I went to Ray (back then, "Nat" Granatir) and Kenwood with Tombol. Although I had been following everything since it happened, I hadn't written anything, I didn't know what to say. I still don't know what to say, or how to respond, but I wanted to share a few thoughts. I hadn't seen Tombol much since Ray, it was limited to running into each other every now and then in Hyde Park, usually around Caffe Florian, and saying hello, catching up a bit. I think in the past year, in the back of my mind I've still sort of expected to see him, and
have to keep reminding myself that I won't.

I always thought Tombol's most noticeable, and endearing quality was his sense of humor. My earliest memory from Ray School - at least I think this is accurate - is sitting in Mrs. Frasier's Kindergarten class in a circle while she was reading something to us. I was sitting next to Tombol in the back. I have no recollection of what he was saying to me, nor do I have any idea what a six year old could say that would be so funny, but I remember struggling to hold back the laughter so that the teacher wouldn't spot us goofing off. That pattern continued. I remember birthday parties over the next several years, and I always knew that I'd be having fun and laughing if I was around him. Of course now I can remember very few details of these times, and soon after that period we sort of parted ways. Its a shame that I missed out on a lot of laughter.

The horrible atrocities committed both by the two individuals and the "justice" system are deeply saddening. My heart goes out to Tombol, his family, friends, and all of those here who remember him.

Nate Granatir
Kenwood c/o 2000
nate@semperfire.net

Condolences

Dearest Malik Family,
The first thing that I must say is that Tombol was one of the most beautiful spirits I have ever met! You instilled in him the most amazingly endearing qualities that I have yet to see repeated in another male individual! Those fortunate enough to know Tombol will whole-heartedly agree with this! Kudos to you for raising one of the most resplendant young men I had ever met!
I have known Tombol since our days at Ray School and Kenwood, and even then he was mature beyond his years. Although young, Tombol never, and I mean NEVER, spoke negatively about anyone around us, even though that seemed to be the thing to do in most adolescent and teenage environments. He was a glowing individual who saw the good in everyone and that has always been what I admired most about him! Such a soul touches every life they encounter, which would inevitably make him a politician like no other! A man who was destined to change the world around him; to make everyone see the beauty that is life! It is a serious crime against humanity what has happened to your family and those responsible shall pay dearly for every piece of it!
When I was told of his death I was, without a doubt, in utter disbelief. I couldn't bring myself to imagine the type of individual it would take to do something so horrible to a young man as gleaming as Tombol. Furthermore, I couldn't wrap my mind around the idea of never being able to see him again and joke about the good ole times when all we had to worry about was homework and lunch money; never be able to share ideas about life and love and, especially, politics; never be able to share the most awesome feeling that was a White Sox World Series Championship! Tragedy involving youth is so hard to deal with, especially when it is something so atrocious, just rest assured that no bad deed goes unpunished and your family WILL be victorious.
I have been following the news stories about Tombol's perpetrators and I am so thoroughly DISGUSTED with the so-called legal system we have here in America! In any other civilized country a crime as brutal, hateful and heinous as this would have, at the very least, gone without bond especially given the financial capabilities of the families of these horrible individuals. As far as I am concerned the legal system has a LOT of making up to do to your family and I chant (as I am a buddhist) all the time for his extradition and for your, long overdue, justice! As a buddhist, I am taught to let situations like these lie in the hands of the greater energy of the universe, because no negative deed goes without an equally severe repercussion. That is why I do my best to put as much positive energy out as possible, on behalf of your family, in hopes that it will help this case.
I recently learned of this blog spot, and finally mustered the strength to sit down and write something to the family of a young man I was lucky to call a friend. Through tears and lingering pain I have managed to string a series of words together that I hope will bring you all some comfort and joy knowing of yet another life that your son has touched in a special way. Rest assured, that an energy like Tombol's will live forever in the hearts of those he touched, in the love of his family members, and all around you as that wonderful feeling that you get everytime a memory of him pops into your mind. My deepest condolences and most sincere sympathy for all of you. Stay strong, as there is no room for weakness in the fight for justice!

Sincerely, Adrienne M. Irmer
Kenwood Academy C/O 2000

Thinking of You

Hi Tombol,

Well, it's been quite some time since I've written on this blog, but that does not mean there's a day that has gone by where you didn't cross my mind at some point or another. It's 2am Florida time and I'm sitting here listening to Blank and Jones - music I'm sure your brother intoduced you to and you liked...the kind that puts your thoughts into gear. As you know (because I know you see all from above), Edward is getting married in July. I am coming home for it, but a week early because I want to be there to celebrate you on July 9th and I know your spirit will be there as well. I 'm looking forward to spending that day "with you" and your family. A week later, we will all be celebrating my brother's marriage and I know you will be there enjoying it too. Hope all is well on your side and we'll be "connecting" again soon. Love you and miss you so much.

Miriam Y.

Tombol

Dude ... just wanted you to know that aliya and I had this crazy 2 hour lunch the other day and people must have thought we were completely nuts, because we were one minute laughing hysterically and the next minute crying thinking and talking about you. I asked her about celebrating her birthday and she doesn't want to but i told her you would be pissed if we didn't, so we will be doing something low key.

Wishing you were here more and more every day. I thought it was supposed to get easier ... not so much. Just can't stop thinking about you these days and wondering what it would be like if you were here.

You should be here.

Lana

Haffar Video

Dear family,

I was a friend of Tombol's and was there for everything last summer. Since then I have moved to LA, but have been trying to keep up with whatever is being done in order to get Haffar back in the courts. Things should have never gone the way they did, let alone a bail posted for his release. But, I have to take this extremely random video of Syrian night-life as a sign of karma on behalf of Haffar. It may take a lot of work to get him back, but I truly believe justice will be made.

There are too many loved ones for Tombol who would never let his death be dismissed, as you very well know, and we will all be there for support and encouragement. This video is a giant step forward to getting him back here, and I just wish you all the very best in succeeding.

I miss him very much, and his bravery is with all of us...


~Anna~

Tombol

Tombol,

I am thinking of you and miss you very much. Your pictures are still up in my backroom. I don't know what else to say, except, I miss you.

~aliya

Malik Family

Malik Family:

Lately I have thought a lot about death. As the most recent friend of mine to die, my experiences with Tombol come to mind immediately. At first glance, it seems that Tombol was here and now he is not here. His body is no longer here with me or you, but instead buried in a cemetary. But when I remember Tombol, I don't remember a body. Being in His presence, his limbs and hair were of no concern. I remember a personality, a fiery compassion, a friend. I did not know Tombol as a mask of skin or a set of organs. Tombol was not just some meaty lump of flesh. Wondering what is in His coffin, I find that it is only a set of tissue. With this half-empty coffin, now I can only wonder where Tombol really is.

How can we say that Tombol is dead? I visit this compilation of memories and see that Tombol has never left me. If Tombol had somehow left us, I would not be writing this and you would not be reading this. If Tombol was gone, how could we speak of Him? The human body was only one form of His being. Now he is rooted more firmly in our thoughts. His body may not be seen or heard, but neither is the body of undeniable love. No longer known as a body, Tombol is now free to live forever. Each memory of Tombol is Tombol. He is here with us right now, as our own minds.

With the utmost respect in this time of sorrow, I cannot miss Tombol. I cannot miss Tombol because he is right here, in this very moment. I can only miss His body that was moved towards the Earth on which my body lives. Burning a sheet of paper, I am left with ashes. Tombol too has changed his appearance, but like a sheet of paper can never be destroyed. This is not wishful thinking; I see Tombol in front of me right now. Rejoicing in His physical life, Tombol is more alive than ever. To say that Tombol has ceased may be a misunderstanding. To say that Tombol is gone may perhaps mean that we did not see who Tombol really was; perhaps we called him a body. His family and friends know Tombol intimately; this is self-validating proof of his presence. Again, I share unequivocable respect and support for other friends and relatives of Tombol Malik, and mean no dishonor to his physical legacy. But I do offer the experience of Tombol's immortality; he will forever be my companion.

Depending on perspective, this may be a time of sorrow or of celebration, of cessation or of freedom. We are capable of missing Tombol and smiling with him at the same time. He would want us all to miss him with a smile.

Respectfully,

-BR


P.S. Enjoy the computer games. ;-)

Unsettling...

First and foremost happy birthday to Tombol.

Dear Malik family,

Throughout this past year i have checked in periodically on your website to see the status of the court hearings. This last time i was happy to hear that muaz haffar was found, but as i read further, i could not believe my eyes. I went to the website and saw this monster dancing, enjoying life while thousands of miles away another life was taken because of his actions. I was delighted that he was found but sickened that he is enjoying himself dancing with an unsuspecting girl who doesn't realize that she's dancing with a murderer! I don't know by what miracle you all found that website and his location, but i will say that GOD does act in mysterious ways! I also wanted to say that it is beyond my understanding of how his family could live without a conscience for the past year knowing that they helped him to get away with murder and that someone's child, brother, loved one is gone because of the actions of their son. GOD has a plan for muaz haffar and in time His plan will surface. God bless your family and you all are in my prayers.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Wormack-Khan

"My children teach me everything i need to know about life, and they have made me a better person"

-rhonda RN, BSN

My Friend

Happy belated Birthday Babe! I think about you everyday...every single day. It's so funny how time flies, Tombol. It's been almost a year since you died and every memory of you is so fresh on my mind. Sometimes, I wish it was a terrible joke or dream and that you would still be here. However, I have to face everyday that you are no longer here...my best friend that I spent countless hrs with on the phone, cracking corny jokes(so corny), and secretly having a crush on you:)(who didn't?) I have cried and laughed so much thinking about the stuff we used to do. I've been talking to God a lot about you. And God told me to praise Him for allowing me to have you in my life for the eight years that I did. And that's exactly what I did. I thanked him for the lives you touched while being alive and through your death. I
think about your family and I pray for them. I wanted to write something to you yesterday, but it was too painful. I know it hasn't been easy for the people that love you, babe. It's been really hard for me. I really just... needed you to know how much you meant to me and how deeply I love you. But im sure you've always known.


KIARA

Remembering Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

My heart has just found the strength to express my deep sadness and pain over the tragic and untimely loss of one of the most charismatic, beautiful, endearing and respectful young men I have ever met. I had the honor of meeting Tombol through my daughter, Stephanie Jackson, who shared a deep, mutual profound love with Tombol, beginning in a piano class at Kenwood Academy. When Stephanie came home "bubbling over" about a special young man she had met, and begging me to meet him, I could hardly wait to see who had caught her attention. What a joy when he was introduced to me at a Kenwood piano recital (where he was an usher). My first thought was how stunningly handsome and at ease he was. From then on, I occasionally drove him and Stephanie on errands or to meet for dates, shared several family dinners with him at Florian, tried to rent a car for them on their prom night (lost my drivers license that day and couldn't rent the car!), and enjoyed his presence at my home when he came to visit Stephanie. The respect he showed us as her parents was remarkable and unique for one his age. I did not realize how deeply they cared for each other until I read a poem and a letter written by Tombol to Stephanie expressing her special place in his heart and hoping that their future together would one day be their present (written when they were still dating). Upon reading this, I have wept over what might have been, but was so cruelly and brutally taken by one of Satan's own and his accomplice. Stephanie spoke with him by phone to plan a weekend lunch together two days before his life was taken. Stephanie felt his spirit depart this world that fateful morning. She tenderly protects her many momentoes of their relationship together and is putting together a memory book, which includes the tragic news articles and updates as they are reported. Perhaps, my tears and contemplation of the tragedy led to a dream I had about Tombol a couple of weeks ago that I would like to share with you, his beloved family. In my dream, I was walking in a crowd on my way to a restaurant. As I was walking, I saw a young man walking toward me, shimmering from head to toe, bathed in a golden light. It was Tombol. When I saw him, I started weeping. He took my hand and asked me why I was weeping. I told him I was weeping because he was so beautiful and I wished he could stay. He asked how my family was and that he would see me later at the restaurant. Overjoyed to see him, I was eating my meal when he passed by the window and waved at me. I waved back and then awoke from this dream with a smile. All I could think of was that HE IS FINE AND WANTS US ALL TO KNOW THIS. So, my dearest Malik family, our eternal thanks to you for blessing our lives with such a remarkable young man as our Tombol. His glorious spirit will forever shine within us until we meet again.
Happy Birthday, Tombol!

God Keep You in His Sustaining Grace and Mercy,

Sherry Jackson and Family

Happy B-Day

Yo, Happy B-Day kid. I wish we could have chilled or talked about how wack hip hop is right now or how the Sox will do this year( their pitching is still top notch, plus we got Jim Thome now). Anyway, much love to Sati, Samil, Shiera, Ms. Malik...be strong. We miss you man.

One Love,

Anthony Roberts

Today

Dear Shiera, Sati, Samil, Karen and Sharafuddin,

This is just a note to say that you and Tombol are in my thoughts so much. I will never, ever forget Tombol--his bright eyed curiosity and floppy good nature as a child, his pointy elbows holding up a bat, his diligent message taking whenever his sister's friends would call . . and fast forward to last April, when he took us all out dancing. . . when he was showing off (in his non-showoffy kind of way) what an interesting, intelligent, thoughtful adult he had snuck into being. Shiera, Sati, Samil--I try to keep that night seared in my mind. I was euphoric coming home, feeling so lucky to have you all as part of my past. It never crossed my mind that I would never see you all together again, that the future would be so different, that I would never again experience the joy of hearing Tombol talk about his new plans and interests, that he would never again be able to make me feel like a big sister. I grieve for the loss of future memories. I will never, ever forget Tombol.

Love,

Gin

Happy Birthday Tombol

Tombol-

I met you on your 23rd birthday. I remember what you were wearing (khaki shirt, tie, infamous military cap :) This weekend we celebrated your life. Samil and I talked about one of the last times we were out with you and we smiled and laughed ... we were able to remember you the way you would want us to on your birthday ... with huge smiles on our faces. We raised our glasses to your memory and the life you led while you were here. Even though today has been so hard for everyone who loved you, I'm sure you know now how celebrated your life is on this day.

We love you and miss you every day.
Happy Birthday!

Lana

PS. thanks for helping me out on that ridiculous flight last Friday .... I know you were there :)

Happy Birthday Tombie :)

I miss you so much and in a way that words cannot explain. Every memory of you is still so close to the surface, and there is not a minute in a day that I dont miss our friendship. My one wish is that you could come back, but I find peace in knowing that you are now probably traveling the world 3 times over...one of your greatest pleasures in life. I didn't know what I would be like on this day, but the ironic thing is I did not go to sleep last night at all, I tried but was not successful, consequently I have been tired and fatigue all day not really able to "feel" anything. I think that happened for a reason...dealing with this situation is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Happy Birthday again sweetlove, you are forever in my thoughts and I will love you forever.

LaToya Jones

Happy B-Day

I didn't know you personally, but I grew up in Hyde Park so call me sentimental but I was hurt and angry when I heard of what happened to you. Happy Birthday Tombol. I just happened to be on the internet today when I decided to google your name. My prayers are with you and your entire family.

God bless,

K.G.

Happy Birthday Tombol

Tombol,

I just wanted to say Happy Birthday to you! Me, Ebone, and Brooke bought you a birthday cake and ice cream, and sung "Happy Birthday" to you. We drank champaigne and listened to Mass Hysteria and Common. Tombol, I miss you more than words can express. Any other year I would have called you at midnight to tell you Happy Birthday, but this year I just celebrated your life. I love you so much!

Stephanie

Happy Birthday

Happy birthday Tombol. I miss you so so much. Today has been so painful for me. A lot more than I thought it would be. I'm just sitting here crying, my heart breaking, wishing that you were with me on this day. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I love you so much.

Samil

Blessing

I'm from the Chicago area, but do not know your family personally. I am following this investigation closely, and I can only pray that God brings justice to a mourning family. I can see that Tombol has touched so many people, even in death, and he will never be forgotten. I almost burst out in tears when I read "And I just think of his passing as God selecting his best early so they can help him reign" from Monique King. How true that is, and I hope it is a small comfort to your family and everyone close to Tombol. I pray that God blesses your family in your continued mourning, and I will continue to pray that justice will be served, and soon. I'm sure Tombol is watching from his place in heaven. He will always be missed.

Christine Cruz

I Miss You Tombol

DEAR TOMBOL,

EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE NO LONGER WITH US, YOU STILL HAVE THE ABILITY TO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER. I HOPE YOU CAN SEE US AND KNOW THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE WHO LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH! I THINK ABOUT YOUR SNEEKY SMILE AND YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR AND IT HURTS KNOWING YOU WON'T TELL ME ANOTHER SILLY STORY OR BAD JOKE. YOU WERE SO SMART AND I SAW SO MUCH IN YOU. IT HAD BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I'D LOOKED AT YOUR PICTURES. THEY'VE BROUGHT BACK ALOT OF GOOD MEMORIES OF YOUR HAPPINESS AND YOUTH. LOOKING AT THEM IS STILL HARD BUT I KNOW WE WILL SEE EACH OTHER AGAIN SOMEDAY. YOUR FAMILY IS FOREVER IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TOMBOL.

LOVE ALWAYS,
VANESSA TRINIDAD

WE WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT HAS BEEN DONE TO TOMBOL! THE 2 MURDERERS WILL GET JUSTICE ONE WAY OR ANOTHER!

ANONYMOUS

Condolences

To the Malik family,

I am a friend of Sheira from Ireland and would like to offer my sincere condolences on the loss of Tombol. Although I never met Tombol I feel deep shock and pain that he could be taken away from a loving family so tragically. I hope that love for him and the quest for justice can give you all the strength to carry on. My strongest support to you in the difficult months of the trial ahead.

With deepest sympathy and support,

Vanessa Liston

To The Malik Family

Hello, my name is Dario Raijman. I hope you remember me. Tombol and I were good friends back in the 7th grade, when I left back to Israel. I learned of his death only now since I wasn't in touch with Tombol or with Anthony. I am in complete shock. I have always remembered Tombol as one of the nicest people I met and when I think back to my friendship with him I can only remember how big his sense of humor was and how we used to have so much fun together. I will miss him.

My love to all of you,

Dario Raijman

My letter to Tombol

Tombol-

I think I look at this website like every day, trying to hear other people share their stories about you. I've been real hesitant about actually writing something to you on here because I feel like I talk to you in my prayers anyway, but I think it's about time I actually put my thoughts down permanently. I remember the first time I met you. I remember totally GOOGLE-ING your name that night when I got home=). I remember the look on your face when I told you I wanted to name my son Malik and you told me that was your last name. I remember teasing you about protesting the war. I remember talking to you about your political beliefs, all of which revolved around having character and respect for all people. I remember calling you at like 11:53 pm the night before your 21st birthday because I was so anxious to wish you a Happy Birthday. I remember you completely shocking me by being willing to take a train to Ohio just to hang out with me for a couple days. I remember telling you so many of my secrets. I remember reading your palms. I remember looking at your sketchbook. I remember arguing with you about the most dumbest things, and I remember just holding your hand and watching tv in complete silence. Most of all, I remember you, and nobody can ever take that away from me. I KNOW I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN.

Marian

Tombol

I am cleaning out my office and found a letter you wrote me after closing the store. You wrote,

"Hi Aliya, Just wanted to let you know that we are out of whole milk and strawberries. Catch you tomorrow night. Tombol"

I miss you so much, and broke down when I found this note. I don't think I ever got the whole milk and strawberries for the next day, but it is comforting to know you were always looking out for me/the shop. Thinking about you all the time.

Aliya

Memorial Resolution to Tombol Adopted by the Illinois State Senate.

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Senate of the State of Illinois
learned with regret of the untimely death of Tombol Malik on on
July 9, 2005; and

WHEREAS, As a young boy, Tombol memorized the names of
cities in countries across the world; as a young man, he
enjoyed traveling and had recently visited Brazil, Ireland, and
Egypt; he was a political science major at the University of
Illinois at Chicago and a budding photographer who planned to
study in Germany;

Full Text...

Tombol

Tombol and I weren't close friends-we knew each other via the small Hyde Park/Kenwood/Whitney Young social network-but he was a very, very special person to me. I've been prolonging writing this, because I get choked up whenever I peek at this blog. However, in the wake of the loss of yet another Kenwood alum this weekend, I've realized how often I think of Tombol and I feel that I would be remiss in not acknowledging publicly how truly beautiful he was. For such a FINE young man, he was uncommonly kind- we had great discussions on the streets of Hyde Park about hip-hop- and gave us the hook up at Cafe Florian. Low-key, he was part of the reason I went there so often! I had the opportunity to hang out at his apartment a few times during my last extended trip home and I always wished that we had kept in touch. The night after he was taken from us, I spoke to my sister (who knew him a bit better) and she told me that just that weekend they had hung out and he had spoken highly of me. Just to think that I registered on the radar of someone that amazing still makes me smile.

Tombol: May God keep your beauty in our hearts forever. And you were right- the "Respiration" remix is the coldest hip-hop remix of all time, though I tried very hard to find one that was better! I'll be rooting for the Sox for you.

To the Malik family and friends: Know that this young man's spirit will live on in the hearts of many. You remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Jamilah-Asali Lemieux

White Sox

Tombol-

Your White Sox are in the world series!

I know you're behind this :) and with every win, I smile (actually, I scream and act like a crazy person) because I know you're there. I watch for you. I know you would've been camped out for tickets, sporting a championship beanie and talking non-stop White Sox if you were here. But here's the deal ... to me... you are here, and to me ... you're pulling some strings up there so that we can all enjoy something that you would've cherished so much.

My pain does not go away, but when I can remember you and smile I know it's what you would want.

So ..... Go White Sox!!

Forever missing you-
Lana

To Tombol

To Tombol:
I see you everyday. I see someone with your profile, your eyes, your smile, your physique,....your presence. Last week,on my way to work, I saw YOU. Not with one of these similarities, but all of them. It was 9am, and I could've cared less that I was late, on my way to work. I passed my stop on the red line, and like a crazy woman, I followed "you". It was early morning rush hour on state street. I lost you in a sea of people. I stood there for a long time and wondered,....have I finally lost my mind?? As much as the odd incident scared me, I welcome any sign from you. I
am not scared. I have refused to delete your cell # and I often send you text messages. My phone tells me my messages have been sent to you. And in some messed up way, this helps me. I feel you around me everyday, and as always I welcome your
presence. I Thank you always, and please know your face is with me always.
xoxo-Kelly

Bringing people together

I remember you in the photo, standing tall against the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland. Your left shoulder in the direction of America but you looking east. I also remember you when you answered the door to a nervous Irishman, your welcoming smile disarming my worries. Though it was only momentary when you introduced me to your “big” brothers, I will never forget your openness, your understanding and your insight. You brought people together. And you still are…

For this I am truly thankful. You will always live in my thoughts and dreams.

We are blessed to have known you and although I only knew you for a short time you will always be my brother, and I yours.

Don.

We do not forget

Dearest Malik family,

We do not forget you and your sorrow. We yearn for justice to be served. The hole in our hearts will never close, but we take refuge in our special angel watching over us. Perhaps Tombol can now put everything into perspective, while we, such mere and lowly mortals are left to carry on as best we can. Tombol lives in spirit, time is relative and soon we will be with him and all who have left this life for the next. Although Tombol left this world way too soon, it is so obvious from this blog that perhaps he had filled his purpose early in life. He left such a profound effect on people, quite unusual for a young man of just 23. I am touched by the words of his loving family. Not many families can say they have experienced such love within a family. I think of you everyday dear family, and my political family here in Spain and my friends ask about you and Anthony and the whole fugitive situation on a regular basis. You are most loved and thought of and I just wanted to write again to remind you of that.

With love and respect,
Annie Popelka
Madrid, Spain

Deepest Sympathies

Dear Malik Family,

I haven't been very good at keeping up on information from Hyde Park lately, and the terrible news about Tombol just made it out to me today. For the past 3 hours I've been sitting in the library in a state of shock, remembering Tombol and reading the testimonials from the many, many people that loved him and whose lives he touched.

I knew Tombol's older siblings better than I knew him. I chiefly remember Tombol as the baby of the family, still too young to join the big kids as we raced about, playing tag behind the apartment on Drexel or on the U of C campus.

When I ran into Shiera and Samil at a New Year's Eve party many years later, Shiera told me that I wouldn't believe it if I saw how big Tombol had become. Now I'm saddened to think that I'll never get to meet the wonderful young man he grew up to be. From reading the many entries in the blog, he was a wonderful young man indeed, and someone I would have been lucky to know better.

Sati, Shiera, Samil and Karen, my thoughts are with you during this sad time. I wish you much peace.

Ben Newton
Madison, WI

To the Malik family

I must be honest, when I first heard on the news the incident that happened July 9, I didn't pay much attention. So much crime occurs that you tend to become numb to it all. But when I saw pictures of your family's anguish during the protest demostration at UIC , I felt great sorrow. It was obvious that you loved Tombol dearly. And yet again I quickly put the images of your grief in the back of my mind.

But then I learned from a news article that your family was from Hyde Park and sudden I found myself more interested than ever. You see, I also grew up in Hyde Park and though I don't ever recall meeting Tombol or the Malik family I somehow feel connected to your grief. For the past two weeks I have googled Tombol's name in order to get more details of his tragic death. The sheer brutality of the crime angers me and it is only deepened by the numerous accounts I have read on this blog attesting to Tombol's good character . In reviewing the pictures of Tombol with his family, especially those of he and his brothers as children, it is obvious that he was dearly loved. He appeared to be such a genuine little boy who, from all accounts, maintained that trait in adulthood. I'm so very sorry for your family's loss and pray that the men responsible for his death are held accountable. I have no siblings of my own, but if I did I wish they were like Tombol and his brothers and sister. You all seem like such a loving family. I plan to follow the criminal investigation of this awful crime and will always have Tombol and your family in my prayers.

God bless,

K.G.

My deepest sympathy

Dear The Malik Family,

Tombol was a blessing from God. His warm heart and gentle spirit was unlike any I have ever encountered. I know Tombol is with God and his love and kindness is shining down on the world. He will always be remembered. May God provide you with love and strength.

Respectfully,

Shadia Sadaqa

Ray School 1997

Littlest Brother

Littlest Brother,

You were the best part of me--the gentle, caring, accepting side. The memories we shared were so deep and so many. We could sit and swap jokes and amusing stories for hours. You, Samil, and I had a special code when we were together that only we could decipher. Whenever we got together it was like we had never left each others' side. I will miss that sacred fraternity we had. Of the three of us you were the most pure, always seeing the best in people, always quick to smile. When I heard that you were in the morgue that fateful morning I cried and cried. I tried to protect you from all the evil in the world but I could never succeed. Throughout the years, no matter how much I tried to harden your heart it would always resist, remaining as soft as when you were a newborn. You were an angel and the devil took you from me that morning because you were too good for this world. I will always miss your gentle spirit.


Love for eternity,

Sati

To Family Malik

It is amazing how a friend's loss touches those who never knew Tombol. What I did know is that his sister thought very much of all her brothers, especially Tombol. I wish the Malik family solace in their grief, light in their depression and love in their time of need.

In losing someone so young, it brings to mind Horatio's words in Hamlet (act 5, scene 2)

Now cracks a noble heart. Good night sweet prince:
And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!

Our thoughts are with Shiera and her family,
David

Tombol

I think about you everyday.
I know living is so hard right now.

Taking care of yourselves is the most important thing you can do.
This note is from someone who wishes she knew Tombol.
He made the world a better place.

Linda

Tombol

I met Tombol a small handful of times through a mutual friend (Kelly Hartford) and like so many others have already written, his light was captivating. I learned of Tombols tragedy at a time I, myself was going through a "tragic" moment. I only wish I could have been present for the vigils but my thoughts and prayers were with him as I pleaded for my own heartache. Only now have I come back to earth from my own lifes drama that I am able to write to this beautiful family, which reminds me so much of mine, and try to "hold a hand". May God bless us all. My prayers are with you.

Mayra Neria

My Dear Friend Tombol

To The Malik Family…

I met your beautiful Tombol in the Spring of 2003. I was blessed enough to be in the same political science class at Harold Washington College. We gravitated towards each other in the way that kindred spirits tend to do. After a few class meetings, we were sitting next to each other; smiling and laughing as if we had known each other forever. Tombol had a presence – a warm, compassionate, gentle presence - that made you feel like you could be yourself and he would accept you just as you were.

We had to take part in community service for our service learning portion of the class. I spoke to the class one day about the needs of abused/neglected children in our community – and Tombol jumped on my bandwagon. We signed up to volunteer together with CASA of Cook County, to advocate for children who have no voice of their own. We attended training in March 2003 – I'd pick him up and we'd drive in together. I marveled at how such a young man could be so dedicated to helping other people. Besides the training days, he promised to dedicate (at least) the next 18 months of his life to being an advocate for abused/neglected children. The day we were sworn in, we were both so excited. We had hoped to volunteer together (on one case).

Tombol was a very special person and friend. Anyone who I ever introduced him to was instantly taken with him. He was truly beautiful, inside and out. We spent many hours on the phone. Sometimes we'd "talk" about absolutely nothing until every phone battery had been run down. And other times we'd have these deeply moving discussions about how we wanted to change the world. I would give anything to pick up the phone and hear his voice again. Or to call him "Fievel" (and apparently, after reading this incredibly moving blog, I wasn't the only one!)

One of the biggest regrets in my life is that we lost touch over these past few years. Our lives brought us in different directions, and we were both so busy… phone numbers change, you transfer schools, you move… but you know your paths will cross again one day so you don't sweat it. Then one day you find out that someone that meant so much to you has been permanently taken from your life. I am so very sorry for your loss. I share in your sorrow. If I can be of any assistance to your family, please let me know. I pray for your hearts to be healed and for justice. I thank you for raising such a caring, phenomenal human being. Although I am deeply saddened, I am also joyful that I had the pleasure of calling him "friend".

Sincerely,
Danelle Altman

Deepest Regrets

Hello,

I did not know Tombol but I did attend Kenwood Academy during the time he was there. We had 1st period computer class together with Mr. Lilly. Although I was just in 7th grade at the time, the moment I saw his face in the paper I knew exactly who he was. Our class was sort of a hostile one so no one really spoke to each other but the
times I did hear him speak, he had such a peaceful like voice, it made me forget how much I hated the class. Words cannot express how sorry I feel for your family and they cannot express how much anger I feel whenever I read more about the case. But please take comfort in the fact that your son had such a helpful soul that he would try to assist a stranger off the street. I dont know many if any people in Chicago that would do that. My deepest sympathy go out to you and everyone who knew your son. And just think of his passing as God selecting his best early so they can help him reign. And rest assured that Chicago mourns with you over this senseless case.

God Bless

Monique King
Kenwood Academy c/o 04

My Condolences

Samil,

My name is Rick Herrera and I am a friend of Alan. We have met twice- once at Zentra and the last time at Alan and Sadie's where we played cards.I know we don't really know each other but I wanted to extend to you and your family my sympathy and the hope for justice to be served. The offender that has skipped his court appearances can't run for long and I know he will be caught eventually. Again, I am so, so sorry for your family's loss and I wish you all the best.

Much Sadness,

Rick Herrera

To the Family and Friends of Tombol

This past week has been one that no mother or father, sister or brother, no friends should have to endure. As I have read through the outpouring of love for Tombol and listened to the griefstricken voice of my daughter, I have realized what a gift the world has lost with Tombol's passing. I only met him once briefly at F212 while visiting my daughter, Lana, but the light, and joy and serenity that surrounded him could not be missed. He greeted me as if he had known me all his life and I felt the same. It is rare that a spirit as shining as Tombol's comes into one's life, no matter how fleeting. It is a tragedy beyond comprehension that he is no longer with us in this world. But a grace and beauty such as Tombol possesses will never be lost to those of us so fortunate as to have been in his company.

My love and thoughts are with you all.

Blessed be,
Lana's Mom

To my dearest Tombol

Ok, here I go... it's has been 26 days since Tombol's murder and each day that I wake up in the morning, I still feel like it has all been a horrible and disgusting nightmare. Recently, I feel that I am more capable to go to work and run my daily errands, but it just isn't the same anymore without Tombol's presence (on earth). Everywhere I go in the city reminds me of Tombol. I am so grateful that Anthony is in one piece and a live; maybe that is why it has been so difficult for me to write and email this blog entry. I still want to believe it has been a dream and that Tombol is only on a long vacation...

When I see Anthony in so much pain, and anger and sadness, it destroys me. Tombol and him were inseparable! Dating Anthony wasn't easy because the handsome "Tombol" came with the package! Where ever Anthony is, Tombol was right there by his side. From that moment on, I had the pleasure to meet such a beautiful, compassionate,
intelligent, opinionated and hilarious human being that I called my friend and my family. And I have enjoyed and cherished every fond memory of Tombol. I first met Tombol when Anthony and him took the blue line to surprise me at my dormitory when I started at UIC. Tombol, you were a pure gentlmen. When I first met you, you made me feel so at ease and safe. You always made sure I was doing ok and that Anthony was treating me well. Now, who is going to check up on me and give me that security that you have provided so willingly. Only you understood how I felt when Anth and I had disputes because you knew Anthony the best. Only you made it a point to make me realize that I deserve the best. You made it a point to always check up on your friends and make sure that they are doing well.

I am heart broken as my eyes are filled with tears each night thinking about all the memories we have had as a little family here in the city of chicago. I remember Wednesday nights were always a blast when we would start out at Pizano's for pizza and we would all sit at "our" round table and you guys would crack mama jokes. And boy did you have an appetite! Then the night would always end by heading to Nick's for a few games of pool. Whenever Tombol and I played as partners, we would never lose a game! Oh, how I miss those nights...

To my dearest Tombol, you have left quite an impression of yourself throughout the heart of Chicago and Chicago's extended family and friends. I promise I will never forget you Tombol. Your spirits, your voice, your laugh-- I can still feel and hear it so clearly. I never imagined myself saying good bye to you so soon. Life is unfair. One day we will meet again, where ever that place may be. Thank you for being in my life, and thank you for showing me how great life can be. If I cannot see you ever again on Earth, will you please come visit me in my dreams? I miss you dearly.

Lisa Lui aka Leeser

My heartfelt condolences

Dear Malik family,

I never had the fortune of meeting tombol, but like so many others have really been moved by the coverage of this tragic situation. From his beautiful smile in all the photos and the love and admiration articulated in all the messages, i can see what a gentle and caring soul he was, and just how many lives he was able to touch.

I wanted to share the following quote with you from Kahlil Gibran: "When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight."

May the spirit of the great "tomboloni" be carried on forever by his family and loved ones through their strength, memories, laughter, and harmony.

You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers...

Rakhi Patel

I’m lost in thoughts and feelings, in memories, in anger, disappointment, regret…

My name is Christian Hodgson, or Hodg, I met Tombol in the spring of 1998 when he came to Germany the first time, taking part in an exchange program between schools from Chicago and Hamburg. We enjoyed two great weeks together, and became friends. It is difficult to stay in touch over the distance, but somehow we managed, and when I came to Chicago for the first time half a year later we continued our conversations for example about an open-house-exchange system for travelers and other interesting stuff. He was so full of ideas, curious in very different fields, and always questioning everything. I was back during the summer of 2000, and I remember he tried to show me the famous Chicago Blues Scene. But I was still underage, and we didn’t get into any places… Finally we found something where the bouncer was not paying attention, sneaked in, enjoyed the band and ordered a drink. I just had a sip, when someone found us, and we got thrown out. It were those moments when one admired his ability to make the best of any situation, always looking at things positively, radiating a very unique, calm energy. The last time I saw him was during the summer of 2004. The night before I had to leave, we went for a long walk after some party, and ended up at the lake, enjoying a Cuban cigar, watching the sunrise. Cuba was one of his dreams, as Brazil was one of mine. There was a lot to learn with and from him, and he could have given so much more…

We spoke around Christmas, but then lost touch. I feel very, very sorry for that. I was and still am in shock about what happened. Why don’t we appreciate people until they are gone? The thought of not being able to speak and laugh with him is very painful. He enriched so many lives, and he was sooo not done yet.

I wish I could be there for the Malik family now. I wish I could have been there for Tombol.

Just sometimes a smile crosses through my tears. It is an honor to have known such an exceptional person. He would be the best to comfort us. It’s up to us to carry on his spirit.

Much love from Serbia,
Hodg / Christian

To my baby brother...

There are no words to describe the incredible pain I feel. You were my little brother, best friend, and confidant. I will never forget our trips to comic book stores and our late nights of baseball card trading as kids. And as we grew older, our talks about our lives and our future. It breaks my heart that your future on this earth was so brutally taken from you.

Your incredible compassion for others and your ability to be so accepting of people (even when others were not) have and will always amaze me. Your positive outlook on the world and your confidence in the good of humanity at such a young age is a testament to your enduring love and maturity.

From the moment I held you as an infant to your growth into a beautiful and talented young man, my admiration and adoration for you has and will never change. My love for you is never ending just as I know your spirit will NEVER EVER die. I love you baby.

Samil

What to say?

Well I don't really know how the fact that one of my favorite people from high school was brutally murdered pass over my radar but I must say that upon seeing the article in the red eye this morning my eyes filled with tears and I could not stop crying. For six stops past where I was meant to get off I sat and wept for Tombol.
I kept saying in my head what was the motive? You know when people die everyone wants to say how great they are and make the person to be, someone with great flaws but in my 5 years of knowing him, of bumping into him, of walking along the lake with him in Hyde Park, of helping him figure out how time worked in AP Euro. I smile when I think of Tombol and I never think that I will ever do anything besides that...physical looks aside (I nicknamed him Supermodel), he was one of the most beatiful young men that I ever encountered. My deepest regrets to those who lost such an amazing kid, and to those who will never be graced with his laughter and smiles. As he would say "Carpe Diem."

Aaron Bowen

Tombol

Malik family-

I am deeply saddened by your tragic loss. Please accept my sincerest condolences, and know you are in the prayers of many.

Rahul Pandhi

A Letter to Tombol

Dear Tombol,

I wake up every morning in disbelief that you are gone and i will not be able to see your smiling face again. I think that is why it has taken me so long to write something on your blog, because i still don't want to believe what has happened to you. Since the day that I found out what happened to you my heart and eyes have not stopped crying. I remember the first time i met you I thought you were the most amazing dancer and we danced the whole night together! That was about two years ago. This past year i was able to know you better as a friend. You were part of my chicago family, and I called you my brother. You would always come to my place to have dinner and play video games with Anthony. I was so amazed by your intelligence, your ability to make friends with anyone, your ability to be so loved by everyone, and your appetite! I will miss our wednesday nights at pizano's with you and the guys doing your "wise guy" talk at our circle table in the corner. I will also miss your hugs that you gave me when I just needed a hug, having a dance partner when no one was willing to dance, and the laughs that we shared together. I will always keep you in my heart and I always share great stories about you to everyone I meet. You were a great guy and you are one of those people that have made a big impact on my life. I am bleseed to have known you, and I hope you will save a dance for me up in heaven.

LOVE ALWAYS

your friend,

Kristina Granados
Los Angeles, CA

P.S. to the Malik family, Anthony, and friends I am truly sorry for your
breaking hearts.

Tombol

Tombol...

When I heard the news...I immediately cried. I am in shock that you were the victim of something of this nature. You were truly an amazing person. You touched my life for a brief period but you will be forever missed. I remember all the times we had fun. Thank you for the laughs. If angels are a real, I know you're one. Rest in peace. I hope you're watching over your family and are guiding them through this rough time.

Vrutti

Malik Family: Condolences

My heart literally aches regarding this tragedy. Tombol will always be the intelligent, sensitive young man with the sweet smile in my history class at Kenwood Academy. Please accept my deep condolences.

Bonnie F. Tarta

My Dearest Tombol

To the Malik Family,

In times like these, it is hard to find the right words to say, but I will try my best to speak from my heart.

Tombol Sharafuddin Malik has left an everlasting impression on my life, and for two reasons. First, for his hand in molding me into the person I have become, and secondly for showing me what true love is (for these things, Tombol, I am
so grateful and I thank you). Tombol has done so many great things and has affected so many lives in such positive ways. He was beautiful in every sense of the word and
through those who care for him and love him, his beauty will forever be.

Malik family, you are in my prayers and in my heart always. Please, take care of yourselves and know that I am here if you ever need me for any reason.

Love Always and God Bless You,
Stephanie Jackson

Samil and Family

Dear Samil and Family,

I am so sorry about this tragedy you and your family are going through now. I live only a mile away from there and to hear that it was your brother made me quite angry. I will always remember you making sure everyone was having a good time or was doing okay if we ever went out down at U of I. To hear that was what your brother was doing really hit home with me. My deepest sympathies and regards to you and your family Samil.

Hardy

Tombol

Samil,

As everyone else, i was deeply shocked and saddened when i heard what happened to Tombol. I haven't seen or talked to you in probably a decade...i'm not sure you even remember me. i'm an old friend from kenwood and i think we lost touch over something really stupid...my fault no doubt. anyway, i have not forgotten you and i just wanted to you to know that i have vivid pleasant memories of Tombol when i knew him as a little guy...our younger siblings were the same age. i took heart in seeing his adult pictures on your family blog. i pray that time does its work in healing your wounds of loss and that justice be served. i'm thinking of you and your family.

take care,
yamani (formerly johnson-taylor)

My best friend Tombol Malik

Tombol was one of my best friends and one of the greatest teachers that I ever had. Since he was murdered I have reflected on the profound impact that he had on my life. Tombol taught me so much about life, friendship, trust, truth, everything, that I know I am an extremely different person from knowing him. Tombol was amazing; it was so fun to be with him because he would make the most out of any situation. If we were going clubbing or just chilling playing video games he would never complain and make sure to have a blast. It was so easy to be around Tombol, I never had to worry about how he would get along with people. Tombol had that special intelligence that allowed him to be comfortable with any type of person. What was even more amazing was everyone else was always comfortable around him. I never introduced Tombol to anyone who did not immediately like him and feel at ease when they were with him. But Tombol was much more than a fun guy to be around; we often debated the ways of the world, politics, power, religion, class, race, nationality, love, relationships, morals, everything. It was refreshing to be around someone who was eager to challenge themselves and discuss their views and ways of thinking in an effort to learn and teach. We learned so much from each other. The mind can do strange things and in one of my deepest moments of pain, anger, suffering, and struggle since this happened, I thought to myself, I need to speak with Tombol, he will have something to say that will help me. I quickly realized it was him that we were mourning and this helped me to understand how important of a man that we lost. Tombol Malik is dead in the physical sense. But he will forever be alive in me and in everyone that he met and knew. Everyone that I meet will then be eternally affected by me, and as Tombol is a part of me, they will be affected by Tombol, and then so on and so forth. I promise that I will strive to uphold the morals, convictions, and compassion that Tombol had and take his characteristics into my life, and this is how Tombol’s spirit will never die.

Benjamin Drake

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

Tombol was an easy child to love, with quick smile and sweet nature that everyone has spoken of. We only knew Tombol as a child, a friend and classmate of our son, Nathaniel. Reading all the messages showed that he remained the loving person he was as a child. We are saddened to think of his years as an adult that we missed and sadder still about all those years ahead without him. We cried with the rest of the community that knew Tombol. We grieve with you and hope that the knowledge of all those who loved Tombol will be of some comfort.

Nancy Schwartz and Tom Granatir

I am so sorry for your loss!

Dear Malik Family,

I have only heard the news today, being on the road a lot I miss all the important news. I knew Tombol for a short time, when I worked with him at Café Florian. I’m not sure if he ever mentioned this but I tried to teach him how to drive and unfortunately I tried teaching him in my car. Let’s just say my passenger headlight was not to happy with him. I have only known Tombol for a short time but many fond memories of him. Every time that the two of us worked together he was all smiles, from ear to ear. He is such a happy person and brings light and brightness to all around him. I am shocked that anyone would do this to him or to anyone. Have faith and my prayers and love go to you all.

Megumi Nozaki

Deepest sympathy

Dear Malik family,

I remember your family from ray school and kenwood, i'm not sure you'd remember me, other than by face. When I first read about what happened i was trying to figure out if i knew tombol or not because the article said he went to kenwood and grew up in hyde park, well everyone knows everyone in hyde park! but then it clicked today when i read in the newspaper about the court hearing. i automatically remembered who the family was. i'm so so sorry about what happened to tombol and my heart goes out to the family. my younger brother is a couple years older than tombol was and also went to ray school, kenwood and UIC, and ironically, my brother looks very similar to tombol. when i looked at his website it almost brought tears to my eyes because i instantly thought, it's like it were my brother. growing up in hyde park as we all did, you can't help but feel connected to everyone even if you don't interact with them. hyde park is such a great community and filled with great people, unfortunately, it lost a great person. i didn't have to know him personally to know that, but just looking at the pictures explains it all. again, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and may your higher power bless you and get you through this time. in the end,those who committed this crime against tombol shall not prosper.

many blessings,

rhonda wormack-khan




"my children teach me everything i need to know about life, and they have made me a better person"

-rhonda RN, BSN

I've Been Waiting...

To the Malik Family,

I'm a friend of Samil's from UIUC. I've been procrastinating writing this. I'm not sure why. Maybe because I knew that by writing this I would be accepting that this tragedy has happened and saying my goodbye to Tombol.

I had the pleasure of meeting Tombol a number of times when he used to visit his Samil in college and also after college when I used to come to Chicago. I've been reading all the letters and they all are so accurate. He was just such a GOOD PURE person. Of course, he was always smiling. The one thing that stood out to me about Tombol, was his RESPECT towards others. From the first time we met, I could see the love and respect he had for his big brother. He looked up to Samil, and I could tell just by the way they acted around each other. Tombol showed me that same respect from the moment we meet. He was always well-mannered and treated Samil's friends as his own. I really appreciated him. I remember an evening a few years ago when I was in Chicago. A large group of us including the Malik brothers were hanging out and enjoying a night in Chicago. It was actually the first I met Sati. Everyone was happy to see him. He was so energetic and full of life. Tombol was everyone's kid brother.

I wish I could say understand what you're feeling, but I can't. No one should have to go through what your family is enduring. You all are in my prayers. My deepest condolences. The focus of thoughts and prayers will also be to catch and convict those responsible for taking Tombol away from us.

I hope these few simple words will help you get through this.

Sunjay Tuli

My deepest condolences...

Samil and family -

I was shocked beyond belief when I heard of this terrible news. I only met Tombol once or twice, but I remember that he seemed like a very happy guy. Samil, given that he's your brother, I can only imagine what joy and fun he must have brought to his circle of friends and family. Having been through loss before, all I can tell you is that your family and closest friends will continue to love and support you through this difficult time. Don't feel bad if you feel like laughing about something - ever - because by doing so you are honoring the memory of your brother. My heart goes out to you and I hope sincerely that justice, peace, and strength in unity find you and your family.

Raj

He had an amazing presence

Tombol,

This small world brought me to meet you in January of this year. Our encounters were brief. It was enough time though to be graced by your warm and friendly presence. We shared laughter and pizza. I am saddened that the busy pace of life has delayed me in learning of your family's great loss, it is not until today that I was made aware of this tragedy. Thus I am late in sharing how I appreciate the beautiful person you were-even to someone who didn't know you for very long. It is obvious to the world now you will live on through the great love and admiration your family and friends share for you.

With great respect and sympathy for your family, I mourn with them for they have endured the loss of an amazing son and brother. Thank you to his family for sharing such a wonderful man with the world.

Rest peacefully Tombol.

With love, peace, and condolences,

Cristina Silva
Chicago, IL.

Rest In Peace Tombol

My condolences and wishes for recovery for the family and extended family of the dearly departed. I went to Ray with Tombol, and had many classes with him growing up. I remember seeing him grow up. And though we werent really good friends in school, I still felt close to him. Through the years, I've had the opportunity to get to know a lot of the people that I went to school with, years later. Unfortunately, Tombol was not one of them, even though I live less than a block from where he used to work at Florian and it hurts to know that now I won't get the chance to really know him. Still, to see and hear how many did know and Love him is a testament to the greatness he was able to achieve in his short time with us, and I believe that the Love and support that people have, and continue to show to him will carry through to the next life. Tombol, may you Rest In Peace, and continue to shine upon us from above.

Love

-Matthew Arnett

Thoughts from Eric Stern (Ray '91)

To the Malik family,

My name is Eric Stern, son of Mr. Stern, and I attended Ray School with Samil. Naturally, I refused to acknowledge that the face on the television screen was that which I had known years before. The last memory I have of Tombol is waiting for him to get out of class with his older brother Samil, Dameon M., and myself. He started laughing when he saw us, and hurried down the stairs. When he reached the ground floor, I grabbed him by his forehead as his arms tried to reach my body. The laughter never seemed to end. Upon hearing and reading everyone's accounts of the kid he was, and the man he grew to be, I was overwhelmed to see that he'd not lost that of his character which was most endearing and honorable. My heart goes out to all the Malik family and friends.

Eric Stern

Tombol

Dear Sati and family -

Sati only informed me earlier this week of what had happened, and I must say I'm still stunned and speechless. And furious. Though I can only imagine what you all are experiencing, please count me among the many who stand with you, if not in physical presence then in our hearts, offering comfort and consolation.

I turned to Julian Huxley (Sati knows why) to find him saying "Operationally, God is beginning to resemble not a ruler but the last fading smile of a cosmic Cheshire cat." Which is I guess what you'd expect from an atheistic evolutionary biologist. It certainly does fit the confusion I feel about all this. Of course, as soon as I start to wonder why, my thoughts go to - but he was such a good dancer! And I laugh at my memories of how woeful you Malik boys are on the dance floor, and how wonderful Tombol could be there. Such a sweet sweet boy - I was lucky to have met him.

with a heavy heart, and sending my love to you all,
Lauren



Lauren E. Brown
Ph.D. Candidate
Harvard University
Department of History
Robinson Hall
Cambridge, MA 02138
lebrown@fas.harvard.edu

Tombol

Dear Malik family,

My deepest condolences on your loss of Tombol. I had seen the news clip when this first happened but the sound on the television was turned down. I thought to myself, what a horrible thing to have happened, and what is wrong with people?--that someone could do such a brutal and vicious thing to another human being? The next day I read the news story at the Tribune online...and I saw Tombol's name. I was stunned, upset, and could not believe it. I met Tombol a little over a year ago when he was searching for an apartment in Chicago with his brother Samil. It only took several dealings with Tombol to see what a sweet and easy-going young man he was. It is incomprehensible to everyone I know how something like this happened. It's simply devastating. I cannot imagine what all of you are going through right now, and I am truly sorry for your loss.


My thoughts go out to all of you,
Renee Leung

Tombol

I am a friend of a friend of Shiera's, and I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. May peace, love, and hope blanket your hearts during this difficult time.

- Natalie

Infinite peace and blessings

My name is Ramon Norwood, I met Tombol probably my sophomore or Junior year at Kenwood Academy. I never became real close friends or anything with him, but I wish I did. I always thought that he was a cool, laid back guy, we spoke about hiphop music and breakdancing etc. I also remember him with the nice shoes and gear all the time, lol.

After I graduated Kenwood in 2000, I would see him off and on at various hiphop concerts around the city. The last time I saw him was last year, I believe and I don't know why I didn't take down his number to stay in touch :( anyway, to those who had the opportunity to be around him often, close friends, and family I would like to send much peace and positive energy as I can in that you heal over this tragedy. Tombol cannot be replaced and I do hope that those that participated
in this evilness, be handled accordingly.

I had not heard of this event till I arrived back in town this week, I saw the pictures of the protest/gathering from last Thursday and I want to say that it was a wonderful thing to see so many people show support and respect for Tombol, his family etc. I was in shock and still am over this.. I can't stop having visions of what went on based off of what I read about the tragedy. Stay strong and keep fighting. Rest in Peace.

Ramon Norwood (radius)
Kenwood Academy Class of 2000

--
Peace, Prosperity and Respect

Tombol

Dear Shiera and family,

as you know, we never met your brother Tombol. But we just became acquainted with you in Germany and of course we are absolutly confounded about what happened to your brother and so also to the whole family. So my girlfriend Kerstin and I decided to write this letter of condolence. Please let us express, that we are very sorry about the death of Tombol. We are sure that nobody can imagine the suffering of a family that has lost a son and brother because of such a terrible event. But maybe it will help you to know, that many people are thinking about you. That so many people are with you.

Shiera, we hope to see you again soon. Perhaps in Aberdeen, maybe in Germany again. From this place we wish all the best to you and your family.

We are sad,

Kerstin Neuser & Axel Richter

My thoughts to you

Tombol....

I met you last week even though I never heard your voice....shook your hand...or saw you face to face. It was an absolute pleasure to meet you and be a part of your life. I met you thru my friend Lana...of course I would of loved to have met you in Chicago ...but I didn't have to be there.... I am now able to see what you brought to life.

I know you bring the feelings that cannot be translated into words, poetry or songs.
You inspire and bring out of peple what we all posses
LOVE.........

And for that.....thank you.

You have made a difference....I admire you.

Myrna

My sympathies

To the entire Malik family,

I just want to offer my sincerest sympathies in this most difficult time. I read the article regarding your beloved son/brother/friend Tombol and was just devastated. Words cannot express my horror & sorrow. I know (from personal experience) that you will get through this, and only time can heal the pain.

I have you in my prayers.

Sincerely,

Traci Davis
Huntington Beach, CA.

Condolences

Dear Shiera and family-

My deepest sorrow on your loss of a son, and brother. I knew Tombol as a little boy - watched a movie with his big sister in Hyde Park theater, and even a baseball game on Farmer's field. Because I too grew up and spent a long time in hyde park, I feel the interconnectedness of the community, and its pain and loss. May you find strength in solidarity and staying together.

All the best,

Stephan

My deepest and sincerest condolences

Dear Samil and the Malik family,

I apologize for not writing sooner, but I just learned of the tragic event today. I've met Tombol a couple times through Samil, including most recently this past January. Eventhough I don't know him personally very well, I always remember his smile and his genuine love for life and for others. In a way his life touched everyone he encountered, even if he didn't realize it.

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.

Sam Skariah

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:

Human Resources Development Foundation (Anti-Violence Fund)
222 South Jefferson Street
Chicago, IL 60661
Care of: Evelyn Willis, CFO

*Please make sure that all donations are earmarked for the Tombol Malik Fund.

Sympathy

Dear Shiera and Family,

I just found out what happened, I've been away in the US for travel. My deepest sympathies for your tragic loss.

Yours,
Ken

Condolences

Shiera and Family:

Lisa let me know about your tragic loss. I am deeply saddened and sickened by the senselessness of Tombol's death. I took the opportunity to read some of the entries on your blog and am truly heartened to read about the impact Tombol made on so many lives in his short, short time on this earth. You have been in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to be.

Rebecca (Becky) Murphy

Dear Shiera and Malik family

Dear Shiera and Malik family,

I'm on the other side of the world, in Australia, and feel so sad that I have not been there in Chicago during this terrible time to help give my condolences and share the sorrow in person. I never met Tombol, but I have had the privilege of meeting Shiera several times, and from what our dear friend Eve tells me he shared that same sense of vibrant intelligence and engagement with life that you, Shiera, have in such abundance. No words can describe the sense of outrage at this senseless tragedy. The only consolation is that we human beings have an amazing capacity to survive and recover if surrounded by love and compassion and friendship - and in this sense I know you are well blessed.

Love and peace,
Russell

Prayers and Thanksgivings

To the Malik Family:

Yesterday at the Memorial, with you, we thanked God for the life of Tombol, your cherished son and your beloved brother. May he live on in all of our hearts. And may he rest in peace knowing what joy and wonder he brought to all who knew him. Thank you too, his family, for bringing Tombol to life and for guiding him through it within your circle of love. Now that he is within the arms of God, may we continue to stand with you in your sorrow and in your loss. Your strength and your courage as you brought us all together from many different worlds and faiths in memory of Tombol has shown us that God, by whatever name we call him, is the God of us all. May God be merciful and just. And may the Peace of God be with you.

Julie Less (Daniel Rogers’ Mom)

Tombol

Dear Malik Family:

I hope that time has started to soften the shock of Tombol's death, if only a little bit, and that in the future you will be able to enjoy the memory of his life with you more than you feel the pain of his loss. I'm sorry I was not able to be at his funeral. You should be proud that he was able to touch all the people who did come, and all the people who have sent the condolences posted on your website. Reading those, and reading the descriptions of him in various newspaper articles, I wish I had gotten to know him even better than I did. I thought he was a great guy, and obviously tons of people felt the same way, from those who knew him intimately to those who had met him only briefly. You should add that knowledge to all the memories you have of him, because your whole family obviously deserves some credit for the man he became, and was becoming.

I'll cut this short before it gets bogged down in a morass of cliches. I am thinking of you, and of Tombol.

-wta

My Deepest Condolences

To the Malik Family,

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to you. Since the moment I heard about this I just could not believe it. I graduated from Kenwood with Samil and I just want to say that I will keep your family in prayer during this very difficult time. Tombol's spirit will forever be a light of hope to everyone who knew him. My thoughts will remain with your family.

Valerie Moore

Tombol

To the Malik family,

I remember Tombol as a sweet little boy tagging along with Shiera and Samil years ago. I recall how close the Malik siblings were, always looking out for each other, especially their darling youngest brother.

This tragedy has touched me deeply from afar -- I can only imagine the great pain, anger and frustration your family is experiencing now. The tragedy and injustice are almost too much to comprehend. Please know that countless others are grieving with you in the loss of your baby brother and son. Tombol and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Lori Palfalvi

Tombol

I’m so grateful for this forum to read and share stories about Tombol…to celebrate and venerate Tombol. It inspires me everyday; reading about how wonderful he was and how there were so many others who got to experience that.

I remember Tombol always appreciated what was different about me…he appreciated the idiosyncrasies/ quirks in people…their true selves... Not the facade/image of perfection people seem to need to display. Tombol appreciated “the individuality” of each individual. He would seek out what special thing each person had to offer…despite their faults. Most people don’t have that patience. But I think he needed to see the good in people.

If someone was in a bad mood, Tombol would take it upon himself to cheer the person up…whether that meant he would look like a complete idiot in the process. That didn’t matter. I remember laying my entire depressing story on the table the first day I met him and him not backing down. That wasn’t enough to scare him away. I think it actually endeared him to me, that I wasn’t afraid to appear human.

Whenever I meet someone new I google them, in an attempt to see what they've accomplished, or at least what the world has to acknowledge. I remember a few years ago I didn't find anything about Tombol. But I knew that someday that would change. He just had so much to say and could say it so well. He had a way of expressing himself that forced you to listen, maybe precisely because Tombol never forced it on you.

I've googled Tombol everyday for the past week. And what I've found now is what saddens me the most: His legacy (at least for the world who didn't ever meet him) is overshadowed by this tragedy. Now he’s the “Tragic UIC Student Who was……..” He had so much more to offer the world than being a victim. He'll never get the chance to bring his magnanimous dreams to fruition. He'll never get a chance to save the world...all the things I (genuinely) believe in time he would have done.

Tina P.

Sorry for your loss

Dear Shiera and family,

I know words are of little comfort however, I am truly sorry for your loss. From reading the entries on the blog one can tell how much he was loved. Be strong.

Christian Rumple

Our Heartfelt Condolences...

Dear Shiera and Family,

We don't know where to begin to tell you how deeply saddened we were to learn of the tragic death of your beloved brother Tombol.

We send our deepest sympathy to you at this time. Shiera, it has always been clear how much you loved your brothers and your baby brother.

You are in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you peace.

With Love,
John, Brenda, Rebecca Murphy and family

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

I, like many others, will hold you in my thoughts and prayers. I feel like I know you all, through the very special friendship my daughter had with Tombol. I attended the vigil with her, and I saw and heard how many lives he touched. I have read the beautiful comments of those who knew him, and those like myself, who feel they did. Tombol was a special young man who touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be missed, but not forgotten. Even those of us who didn't know him will carry a part of him with us as we continue his legacy of love and understanding. This loss is tragic and so unnecessary. I for one plan to live life as Tombol would have. I will be a better person because of him. Let friends and community members support you during this time of grief. We care.

Karen L

My Deepest Condolences

To the Malik family,

I want to express my deepest condolences for your loss. I knew Mantis Matulis from Bradley University, and was sick to my stomach when I heard the news. This is a terrrible tragedy, and I will never forget Tombol as long as I live, even though I have never had the oppurtunity to meet him. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Sincerely,

Dan Lewin
(Cleveland, Ohio)

Tombol

Shiera, Sati, Samil, Karen,

I've avoided the blog thinking maybe it's not true and maybe next time i visit chicago tombol would be even taller.  i don't know what to say... he was beautiful and gentle and the most mature "kid" i ever knew.  who didn't love that guy?  who doesn't?  i'm praying for you all every day and telling stories about him to everyone who will listen.  anyone who knew him will never forget.

Sam and Sean

Tombol Malik

Dear members of the Malik family,

My name is Diane Hill.  I attended highschool with Tombol but unfortunately I didn’t have the opportunity to get to know him personally.  However, he stood out.  Every time I saw Tombol all I noticed was a huge smile and his eyebrows.  A lot of my friends were friends with Tombol and they speak highly of him.

I really wish I had all the right things to say to heal your pain.  I can feel and see the pain in my friends and I can only imagine how you must be feeling at a time like this.  I want to express my deepest condolences to you.  And I would like you know that the Malik family is in our prayers.

Diane M. Hill

Kenwood Academy Class of 2000

Sincerest and heartfelt condolences for Tombol

Dear Uncle Sharaf, Aunt Karen, Shiera, Sat, and Samil,

Since we heard about the tragic passing of our dear brother Tombol we have all been grief-stricken. All of you have been and remain in our thoughts and prayers and we are so relieved that all of you can finally be together. There are no words that can express the sadness and outrage we are feeling at such an inexplicable act of violence. I’ve been reading the blog entries everyday and find solace in the fact that Tombol was a very much loved and highly respected individual; most people live their whole lives and do not earn the kind of respect that Tombol has in his short time with us. For that, I am extremely honored to be a part of his family. May he rest in eternal peace. I pray that you remain strong and persevere. Justice will prevail! God be with you always.

The Taha Family

(Mysoon, Taisir, Dalal & Omar)

Tombol

Always I shall treasure the memory of our precious time together when you drove from Chicago to Roanoke to be with your grandfather and me.

This last surreal week with your Uncle Jon has bound us with your friends as well as fast friends of  Shiera Sati and Samil.

Love always, Gran(Muriel Brobst)

With my deepest sympathy

Dear Malik family:
I only had one opportunity to meet Tombol (at Aliya's new restaurant) but based on that meeting and everything that I have heard about Tombol it made my heart break when I heard the news of the tragedy.  It is disgusting to me that something like this could happen to such a good person for simply showing human kindness.  And possibly even more troubling is the fact that the murderers are out on some freakish technicality - what else is it but wanton cruelty?  I am truly, truly sorry for your loss and hope that time and prayer will heal your pain.

Tombol's spirit will live on forever!

Sonia

Condolences

Dear Sharaf,Karen,Sheira, Sati and Samil,

Nothing can be said that will match the deep sadness, anguish and even rage that one feels at these moments. Yet, you all must feel infinitely worse, and I  sincerely prey to God to bestow his eternal serenity upon you and may Tonbol's soul rest in eternal peace. We havn't seen Tonbol for years but when I saw his photos, it is as if I had seen him a short while ago, so charming, so radiant! ... Let all of us be strong and together, until we see justice take its course.

Elfadil, Hind, Elfatih, Atheel and Mohamed Elmalik.

Tombol

Dear members of the Malik family,

this is to express my and Ada's condolences about the terrible tragedy that has happened to your son and brother. We couldn't believe that such unbelievably terrible attacks can happen apparently to anybody and anytime. Even our little one, Alexander, age 8, was very sad about this tragedy, although he can of course hardly grasp what this means. We haven't gotten to know you personally yet, but we want to let you know that all of Patrick's family is very close with you in this tragic moment.

With warmest regards,

Ada, Alexander, and Jürgen

Tombol

I wish I could say that I had the opportunity to meet Tombol. From everything I have been told, he was a true pleasure to be around. My friend Lana has shared with me so much about him, which I am sure is just the iceberg of how much he had to offer. It is funny because every time Lana recalls an anecdote that involves Tombol her face lights up and she cannot help but smile. This speaks volumes about his personality. He enhanced her life with his presence and I am thankful for that.

To Tombol's friends and family, I wish I knew the right thing to say. I am not even sure that there is a "right" thing to say in situations like these. What happened is horrific and I am so sorry for you all. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Shawna

Tombol

To all the Malik family with my deepest condolences and great sadness.

Shiera let me know what happened to Tombol and I still don’t know what to say to you all about something so unimaginable. Words are utterly inadequate in response to such loss.

I have read the reports and am shocked to hear of such brutality.

The contrast with all the stories of Tombol couldn’t be more stark.

I am thinking of you all and praying that you find comfort in all the love for Tombol that comes from everyone who knew him.

I never met him and yet I can feel how much he was loved.

Shiera is a wonderful friend, and a very special person and I have met Samil and your father so I know what a lovely family Tombol comes from.

He was young, he was good and this should not have happened.

I hope that justice will be done.
 

With all my love from Bronwen

Family tragedy

Dear Malik family,

we heard with great sadness of your family tragedy. Our thoughts are with you.

Eddie Hyland and Brid

My deepest condolences

To Samil and family,

I want to express my deepest condolences to you. It is really so very tragic and unfortunate and I want to say my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope your family can find strength in this trying time.

Amish Shah

You Will Never Be Forgotten, Tombol!

Dear Malik Family,

My name is Damany Dillard of Los Angeles, California and I attended Ray School and Kenwood High School with Tombol. He was dear to me and will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace.

Damany Dillard,
Ray School Class of 1997
Kenwood Academy Class of 2001

My condolences

Dear Malik Family,

I wanted to offer my condolences on your tremendous loss.  I had the pleasure and honor of meeting Tombol while Samil and I were roommates at the University of Illinois.  There was just something special about Tombol that I don’t know if I can truly describe.  He was so warm and such a pleasure to be around.  He seemed to enjoy life so much, and life was better with him in it.  The thing that I will always remember about Tombol was his big smile and infectious sense of humor.  Words can’t express my sadness for your loss.  You are all in my prayers.

Jason Oliva

Rest in peace, good friend

Hello, my name is Frederick J. Penman Jr. class of 2001 Kenwood Academy. To say a name like Tombol Malik it makes you think that this young vibrant male could have went on to win the Nobel Prize for Peace and maybe humanities. I met Tombol during my freshman year of high school at Kenwood Academy and right there I knew that no matter where we go in life he will still be one of my dearest friends. Tombol knew what to
say and say it so eloquently.
--
Frederick J. Penman Jr

Tombol

Dear Shiera and family,

I received the email with the terrible news today, and I am deeply shocked. I want to offer my sincere condolences and I am really at a loss at what to say. I want to let you know that I am thinking of you and wish you all strength in this terrible moment.

Alex

Tombol

Dear Karen, Sharaf, Sati, Sheira, and Samil,

We just heard of your loss and are profoundly shaken.  Our hearts go out to you.  We will never forget Tombol following after Sati and Seth and Ed as they played baseball and football back behind the Drexel apartments.  Tombol would laugh and laugh—he was such a happy child.  And Sati would protect him (and Samil) fiercely—the best big brother someone could have.

After reading all the postings and news articles, nothing really makes sense except for the outpouring of love for Tombol—he obviously earned it.  We too send you our love and pledge to do what we can to make this world a more compassionate world, a world with less and less senseless violence, a world where Tombol could live in peace.

Yours with deepest sympathy,

Steve and Jody Nelsen

Tombol

Shiera and Malik family,

It is very sad news to hear about the death of your brother. I can only hope that you and your family can find strength in each other and your friends. All I can offer are my condolences.

Declan

Condolences

Dear Sharaf, Karen, Shiera, Sati and Samil,

We have been grieved hearing the painful tragedy that happened to our blessed Son, Al Malik Tombol. Our heartfelt condolences to you all, May Allah bless him.

El Shareef Mustafa, Hassiba El Zubeir El Malik, Ahmed El Idrisy, Walaa, and the family from Sudan.

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

My heart goes out to you.  Tombol and I worked together at Cafe Florian.  He had an innocence about him that people were instinctively drawn to--he was everyone's surrogate little brother.  Shiera, as an older-sister, I think of you especially during this painful time. When I would give Tombol my "sisterly advice", he would always smile and tell me to relax, reminding me he already had a big-sister at home.  Although we've never met, Tombol talked about you so much I feel as if we have.  He was so proud of you. I feel privileged to have known Tombol.  My prayers are with you all during this time of loss.

- Eve Kelly

We will always love and remember Tombol...

Shiera, Sati, Samil, Karen, and Dr. Malik -

It so hard to find the words to start.  I have mourned, yet there is still a part of me that wants to wake up from a terrible dream.  If there is ever a time that I wish I wasn't so far from home, it is now.  We all go back so far...growing up on Drexel Ave. together and sharing so many memories and wonderful times.  I have always and always will consider you the extended family that we never had in Chicago.  Even as we all got older and went our ways (Shiera and until recently, me), whenever we came back to together, it was as if we were never apart.  I have a feeling that although the physical distance may remain the same, this will bring us closer than ever before.

Like the pieces of a puzzle, you are each so different, but complete a perfect whole together.  Tombol was the baby - that final piece.  And although he his gone, I know the Malik strength will help you to continue on.  Tombol wouldn't want it any other way.  He was truly unique - a one and only - and the lives of those he touched will never be the same.  I know mine won't; I was blessed so long to have known someone so special.  Charismatic, respectful, caring, warm, gentle, fun, smart, compassionate, genuine...all the words people have used to describe him and there are so many more.  We could make a dictionary alone of words to describe Tombol and only wish that more people would model after it.  Take comfort in knowing that he is looking down on us and smiling in that warm, sweet, unforgettable way.

Tombol, "T-Bone" - you were taken from us entirely too soon.  We love you, we miss you, and we will never forget you.   May you rest in peace and may JUSTICE BE SERVED in your name.  Until we meet again...

Love always,

Miriam

I am very sad

I am saddened by the sudden loss of your son Tombol. I ask God to bless him and forgive us all .....my prayers to you all for this painful ..but I ask heaven from God to him.

Your brother, uncle Khalid

Dearest Tombol

Dearest Tombol~

It has taken me a long time to find the words to express my sadness and disbelief over what has happened. I still don't think that these words will be sufficient to express the loss and pain I feel inside. I have been truly blessed to have had you in my life in one way or another for the past few years. I will always remember the good vibes you constantly generated to those around you and your handsome, outgoing, easy to talk to and funny nature that was so contagious and intriguing. I loved how you loved people, dancing, traveling, and a good sense of humor. I remember the numerous times spent watching Conan or Chappelle's show, especially the Rick James episode, and laughing until our stomachs hurt. You are still one of the few guys I've met that loves to dance as much as I do. I would look forward to going out with you because I knew you would dance, I have that image of you dancing imprinted in my memory. You were the guy, kind, thoughtful, gentle and funny, that I assumed I would know forever. Although we didn't keep in touch frequently, I always imagined running into you somewhere around Chicago. I still find myself looking twice at people or waiting for you to walk through the door at Florian or Sonotech and I imagine I will do that for sometime. It is hard accepting that someone is no longer physically around, but I feel your presence every time I remember the time we spent together. Although I am outraged and deeply saddened, I know your light shines in all of us and will help to bring justice so that you may rest peacefully. Tombol, you are loved and will always be in our hearts.

Sincerely,
Hannah Breed

Tombol

To The Malik Family,

I am deeply saddened by your loss. I did not know Tombol personally. My sister was friends with him and through the stories she told me I felt like I knew him. I was shocked when I heard the news about his death, I felt like I had lost a friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

Sincerely,
Erin L.

Dear Shiera, Sati, Samil, Mother and Father,

We have known you all at least 25 years and have known Tombol since he was a toddler. I've watched him grow into a fine young man, polite, gentle, kind, smart -- just a wonderful human being. My pet name for him was "baby Tombol" since he was the youngest. I am greatly distressed, grieved and very angry at what happened to him. Tombol did not deserve this. May God bless you dearest Tombol and rest in peace. Family, be strong.

Love,
Dianne

Tombol

Hello. I didn't know Tombol, but I just read about what happened and I'm terribly sorry to hear it. I'm a UIC student, so to think that this happened on the same campus that I know so well makes the thought of it that much more pressing to me. I just wanted to say that my thoughts are with you, and with the whole family.

Rich Ranallo

My thoughts and prayers are with you

Dear Shiera, Sati, Samil, Karen and Dr. Malik,

My heart has been aching since the first moment when I learned about Tombol's death.

Shiera, you and I have known each other for so many years, and along with our friendship I have been honored to have met your wonderful brothers and lovely mother. I remember Tombol as a little boy. He was so sweet and your love for him seemed overflowing. I remember Tombol as a young man, too. I was so happily surprised to see him when he delivered for the Florian. It seemed as if he had grown two feet! He was always sweet and we spoke many times and exchanged news about this and that whenever we saw each other. Whenever I saw him, I thought about you Shiera.

Shiera, Sati, and Samil, my heart goes out to you. The wonderful closeness that you all share is so beautiful and has brought me to tears many times throughout this past week. You inspire us with your grace and dignity in the face of this tragedy.

The many friends present at the vigils are a testament to the love and friendship that Tombol had for the people in his life. The many warm and heartfelt memories that were shared, I'm sure are a mere fraction of what those present wanted to share if they could only put to words their thoughts at such an unbelievably sad time. Memories and tears were mixed with outrage at such a violent passing for such a gentle and kind soul. I believe justice must and will prevail.

Tombol is in my thoughts and prayers and those of my
mother, brother and sister.

With my love,
Eve Tselepatiotis

1993 Rangers

This is how I remember Tombol: when I look at this photo of the 1993 Rangers -- Little League Champs that year of the HydePark/ Kenwood Baseball League -- I remember how Tombol and my son Daniel used to trade off in right field on that team, each as anxious as the other to be put in the game and send the other one back to the bench.....and how Tombol had the most cheerleaders when his sister or one of his brothers would come and sit in the stands -- never with the moms as we sat next to each other near the bottom -- but high up at the top, set apart in their teenaged-ness grinning at their little brother. Tombol's Mom and I marveled at our equally tall-and-skinny-all-elbows-and-knees sons as they increasingly moved away from awkwardness to better and greater skills in pursuit of their 7-inning dreams. Whenever Tombol dived after a long after a long-distance fly coming his way, he always came up smiling. Whether he had run up close enough to reach the ball or not, he always leaped out as far as he could hurl himself -- seemingly for the pure joy of throwing his body through the air!..... I guess we should be thinking now that Tombol has finally found his wings.....Oh my!... "Fly Tombol! Fly!"

Daniel's Mom (Julie)

To The Malik Family

I am very sorry to hear about your loss and I would like to extend my deepest condolences. Although I only met Tombol a couple times when he would visit Samil,I knew that he was very kind and respectful person. I am very sad to hear about his passing. I wish you all strength with this situation.

Chirag Shah (Cake)

A wonderful person in Tombol

I attended Ray School with Tombol and heard of the tragedy on the news. When I heard the name and saw his face, tears instantly filled my eyes. Tombol and I have not been close and only spoke on chance occassions in Florian or downtown, but my reaction only tell of the type of person he was and the impact that he was able to leave on so many lives. Looking at the many messages that people have left for him also fills me with tears. Its so hard to believe that such cruelty exists in our world... but unfortunately it does.

To Tombol:
You were a special person to many and you will be greatly missed. As you look down on us know that the warmth of your smile will still continue to make others feel well. Everytime you smile looking down on us, someone will feel it.

Anthony you were a great friend to him and I remember so well how inseparable the two of you were at a young age. Not many people have that bond.

To the Family:
Even at Ray Tombol loved to rant on about his brothers and sister. EVERYONE knew who you guys were, and I know there is a hole there that he once filled. Stay strong and remeber that Tombol will continue to make sure that your lives are blessed.

May your Soul Rest Tombol,
Leslie Grooms

Love & Support

I can't honestly say I knew Tombol very well. In fact of all the years I shared with him at Ray and Kenwood I don't know that we ever held a conversation. Nevertheless the more I see, hear, read and ruminate I am more and more compelled to tell you all that I'm thinking. The fact that I didn't know Tombol is irrelevant. The fact that such a beautiful person was caught in the path of such heinous acts, let alone trying to help someone, stirs a pain in me I have never felt. I have found on this page far more in the outpour/cry of love, support and more than fond memories than I would ever need to know to see that the Malik family has raised a genuinely outstanding person. A young man of great character, compassion, love, kindness and gentle sophistication. Someone received as a blessing in all the lives of those he touched, however large or small. I am wholeheartedly thankful for his life and that this world was ever able to have seen him at all, as people of such quality are most unfortunately a rare occurence. He indeed will be greatly missed, but far more remembered. I realize that there are no number of condolences or arrangement of words I can offer to help ease what you're feeling in such a difficult time, yet I can't accept not trying.

Lean on your faith. Rest on it not thinking but knowing the fact that Tombol's life has had many purposes, impacts, and influences which have served as a light in the lives of others as well as a milestone in a more divine scheme of things. Look to the Heavens for a greater understanding and a deeper healing. Unfathomable as it may seem in the midst of everything, both wait for you there. I pray that you might find comfort in knowing that even complete strangers like me were not beyond his reach and that you have mine as well as the Neal & Tuggle families' boundless love and support. Your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Respectfully,
Bradley Neal
KA c/o 99

May Tombol's Memory Be Eternal

Dear Malik Family,

I had the honor of getting to know Tombol in 2000, during our study abroad in Hamburg. That trip is one of the most memorable times in my life and Tombol has a place in a lot of my memories. I remember some of the first conversations I had with Tombol. We both mentioned our brothers quite a bit and realized that we shared an extra special sense of closeness with our siblings. I'll also never forget browsing through a music shop in the airport when we were on our way home. Tombol told me to get a CD his brother had recommended...I took that CD out yesterday and listened to it. They say that some people live to be a 100, but never really live a single day. This site is a testament that Tombol truly lived life to the fullest. When someone dies, Greeks say: "May his memory be eternal." I have no doubt that Tombol's memory will be eternal. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

My sincerest condolences,

Eleni Giannakopoulos

Shiera and Malik family

I met Tombol twice when he visited Shiera in Dublin - and once properly, when I had the privilege of sharing dinner with him last New Years Eve.

I was struck by the fact that he was very gentle but equally charismatic. He was someone special but amazingly modest about it all. ... We all had a fantastic night that night - I went away and told people that I'd met Shiera's brother who was a genuine nice guy. I really meant it and am lucky to have met him.

Sincere condolences to Shiera and the Malik family

Ronan, Dublin

Tombol

Please accept my condolences for the untimely passing of Tombol. I know his life was a blessing to family and friends. My thoughts are with you.

Sincerely,

Tiffany Fendick

To the family of Tombol Malik

To the Malik Family,

I loved Tombol and I still love him. Words can't express how much. I met Tombol freshman year of Highschool and he has been my best friend since. He is one of the people i stayed very close to after highschool. From the corniest jokes we cracked on eachother to late nite conversation about our lives,Tombol and I had a very wonderful friendship. I considered him as a brother. I have been so blessed to have encountered his beautiful spirit and because of the type of person Tombol was, it always made me wonder about the family he came from.He talked about you constantly with so much love and integrity and pride. Instead of talking about his death, i want to honor his life. He touched so many people with his spirit, his wisdom and most of all his love. These qualities that he possessed will stay with me as long as I live.I'm going to miss him...God Bless You!

love-
Kiara Shackelford

Known him little, respected him a lot... Tombol was a true gentleman.

Dear Malik family,

I heard of the violence at UIC a few days ago but I didn't know that it was Tombol that was attacked that evening until today when I read his name on a news site. Tombol was a good friend of mine when we went to Harold Washington College here in Chicago. He was a very unique individual in how he treated others with a level of grace and compassion that is unheard of these days. I used to share with him stories about my times in Sudan and Egypt, and even though he didn't know much about home, he seemed strongly attached to it considering how interested he was in knowing more. I wish I had the opportunity to go with him to Sudan someday. Even though my wish is no longer a possibility, I plan to make a charitable donation to the poor children of Sudan when I go back in December.

With my deepest condolences,

Ahmed A Hassan

Tombol

Dear Tombol,

You were one of the few people in my life whom I felt a unique connection with. I could go months without seeing you, and then when we hung out it was as if we just talked the day before.  Thank you for always being there, for being so kind, so compassionate, and so caring for everyone, especially those less fortunate.   I was always amazed at your optimism; no matter what obstacles lay ahead you were always so calm and rational.  My only regret was not investing more in our friendship.

Tombol, I believe no act of love will ever be lost, and you had plenty of them. I miss you.

Your Friend,
Andre

From Tombol's Computer Teacher at Ray School

Dear Samil, Shiera, and Sati,

Samil, you were in my son Eric's class at Ray School, and of course I remember Tombol as the little brother tagging along behind.  Later I taught him in the computer lab at Ray, just as I did Samil.  That was a long time ago, he would have been in 3rd or 4th grade.  Eric and I were both shocked by the news last week; we knew immediately who it was.  We can't even imagine what you guys are all going through.

You are in our thoughts.

Warmly,

Allan Stern

Tombol

Dear Karen, Shiera, Sati and Samil,

Terry and I send you our sincerest sympathies. We are heartbroken over Tombol’s death. Terry and I loved Tombol. We have never, ever forgotten those early years when he and Owen were practically inseparable. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Love,

Kathy Anderson

Tombol

Dear Shiera, Sati, Ammo Sharaf and the rest of the Malik family,

There are no words to describe how I feel. What kind of world are we living in where senseless violence takes away such a beautiful and kind hearted person... As you all know I've never met Tombol personally but I feel as if I've lost a family member myself... I've had a hard time handling this news and I wish I could be there to grieve with you... I'm glad you are all together and that Ammo Sharaf was finally able to get out of Cairo...  please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Warmest regards and my most sincere condolences.

Always,

Omar Elwaleed Taha Elmalik

Condolences

To the Malik Family,

I was one of Tombol's classmates at Kenwood Academy. I knew Tombol only casually, but his kindness and his sense of humor always filled the classrooms that I was fortunate to share with him. At a time when words seem so inadequate, I pray that the love of God would comfort you and would draw your family even closer together.

May God Bless You,

Gabrielle Parker

Love and condolences to you

Dear Sati, Shiera, Samil, and Mr and Mrs Malik:

I was deeply saddened to hear of Tombol's passing tonight from some Kenwood friends here in New York. I
attended Ray and Kenwood with Sati and also knew Shiera. I remember Tombol as a gangly, adorable kid
much like the one in the photos on your website, with the most infectious smile. It sounds like he grew into
a wonderful young man, and I'm devastated to hear that he is no longer with us. I am sure that his warm
spirit lives on.

I wish you much peace, strength, and love.

Amy Hundley
Kenwood '91

Tombol

Dear family,

I was stunned and saddened by the passing of Tombol.  I was his 7th grade teacher at Ray School and remember Tombol as one of the sweetest, gentlest students I ever taught.  He was extremely likeable, endearing and kind.  My heart and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Mary Cobb

With sympathy

To Tombol and the Malik family,

I heard about the story in the news and it tore me apart.  I actually have never met Tombol, but by the way people describe him, I wish I could have had the chance to meet him as he has touched so many people's lives.  Mr. and Mrs. Malik, Samil, Shiera, Sati, I am truly sorry for your loss and I know this is hard for you, as well as all his friends.  You are all in my prayers.  God will keep him safe in heaven, insha'Allah. Tombol, rest in Peace.

May God bless your family,

Huda Dabbouseh

A few words of condolence

As I am too far away to attend any of the events physically, I want to use this way to express my dolor about the tragedy and my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Tombol.

I have met quite a few people in my life, but it rarely happened to me that someone invites me at the first meeting to stay over at his place for a weekend, then drags me out to the best parties in town and introduces me to all of his friends. The weekends in Chicago were certainly one of the best time I had during my stay in the United States. Most of that was due to the great company of Tombol and his friends. I always hoped to get the chance to give back a part of this hospitality and friendliness. Maybe in Germany or England during the next academic year.

The description of Tombol in the papers as a nice and peaceful guy falls short of the reality. Tombol was an outstanding, deep and wonderful personality. A person who increased the worthiness of the world and life of the people around him. Someone who cared so much about his friends and whose passing away is an irreplaceable loss to them.

from Hanoi, Vietnam
Le Tu Duc

Tombol

To the Malik Family,

My name is Malaika Martin. My heartfelt prayers go out to you. I went to Kenwood with Tombol and had many classes with him. We often sat next to each other because my name was right after his on the rooster. I remember Tombol as the witty and handsome guy that always kept you smiling. Tombol was a special person and I am happy that I got to experience him as a part of my life. I may not have been one of his closest friends but Tombol still has had an impact on my life as well as many others. May God bless you and give you peace.

Malaika

Malik Family

I never had the opportunity to meet Tombol, I only knew of him that in itself has changed my life. Tombol had an ambiance about him which was truly inspiring. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you, your family, and everyone who knew Tombol.

Justice will be served!!!

Peace be with you,

Katie

Missing Tombol

I went to high school with Tombol. He was a great friend with a huge heart. His face was so warm and full of love that it put you in a happy place.  I will always think of him and smile. I would see him occasionally in Hyde Park at looking at him smile always brighten my day.

Condolences,

Evita Allen

Tombol

To the Malik family,

I only met Tombol twice but I picked up on the warmth that radiated from his smile the minute we were introduced. He seemed like a genuinely good guy, and from what I hear from his friends, that's exactly what he was. All the condolences in the world can't express my sorrow for your family. You're in my thoughts, prayers and in my heart.

Nicole Frehsee

To the Malik family in remembrance of Tombol

To the Malik family in rememberance of Tombol,

I first met Tombol when he was 16 or 17. I had the pleasure of working with him at the Florian for several years, but more importantly he was my friend. He was such a goofy kid.He was the guy who would say the
same joke over and over until someone laughed. I would often crack up so hard, I thought I would pee my pants. His jokes were usually terrible, but it was his determination to get a reaction that got to me. I always told Tombol he reminded me of "Fifel" from the American Tale move. Not only because of the hat he wore everyday for a year,but he would just look at you with the most ridiculous expression in his face.

More recently we would see eachother out on the town.Whenever I saw him,my girlfriends would say "who is that gorgeous guy?? Please introduce him to me!!" This to me was funny because like many of my friends, I
thought of Tombol as a little brother. However it is undeniable that Tombol was just coming into his own as a smart,kind,humorous,and handsome young man. He was taken from us too soon,and my heart breaks for everyone affected by this loss.

It is obvious Tombol was blessed with such a beautiful and strong family. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with them now and always..... I love you Tombol, and I am honored to have known you.

always, Kelly Hartford

thoughts and prayers

Dear Malik Family,
I was Tombol's computer teacher at Ray School for a number of years. I'm unspeakably sorry for your loss. Tombol was a true treasure. I had a baby, stopped teaching, and moved to the Washington DC area soon after Tombol graduated from Ray.  There are a number of students who I often think fondly of and wonder how they are doing. Tombol was always one of those I knew was having a special impact somewhere.  He was  one of those kids who everyone knew and loved.  He was always positive and willing to go the extra mile for a friend.  He was just so sweet and easy going it's such a loss to all who knew him.  Thank you so much for sharing everyone's thoughts and prayers; it is some small  solace to know how well he was loved by all who knew him.

Yvonne Whittier

My Condolence To Your Family

I remember when Shafi and Shiera were friends,  Sati was playing with the boys in the neigborhood and Samil and Tombol were just babies.  Our family is very, very sad for your great loss.

Katrin Threet
Glendale,  Arizona

WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY

TO THOSE I LOVE and THOSE WHO LOVE ME

When I am gone, release me - let me go for I have many things to see and do. You must not tie yourself to me with tears, be happy that we had so "many" years. I give to you my love, you can only guess How much you gave to me in happiness. Thank you for the love you each have shown but now it is time I travel alone. So grieve a while for me, if you must, then let your grief be comforted by trust. It's only for a little while that we must part, So bless the memories with your heart. I won't be far away, for life goes on, So if you need me, call--And I will come. Though you cannot see me, or touch me, I'll be near and if you listen with your heart, you will hear, all my love around, soft and dear, and when you must come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and wave

"HELLO"

via the Angel Tombel

With love & prayers,
Theo's Mom & Sister
(Carolyn & Nicole)

Tombol

Dear Shiera, Dear Malik Family,

It's so hard to find words. We didn't know Tombol but we are deeply moved and we are so sorry. We wish to express our sincere condolences! Shiera, our thoughts are with you and your family!

Susanne and Olli from Berlin, Germany

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

My name is Olivia Griffith-Garrett and I use to attend Ray School with Tombol. I didn't know Tombol personally, but just from being on this site. He was and is loved by all his family, friends and acquaintances. My prayers are with your family.

Olivia Griffith-Garrett

Ray Class of 1995

My favorite Sox fan

One of my fondest memories of Tombolaya is when we went to a White Sox game in 2001. I’d hung out with him many times within a group context as we’d known each other from Ray days to Kenwood and beyond, but that was the first one on one. I was amazed at just how well the conversation flowed and how similar we really were. I could talk with him in depth about sports, hip hop, politics – anything. He was educated, charming, chivalrous, athletic – he was the kind of guy every girl wants and most guys aspire to be. I was going to ask him to a Sox game later this season. I don’t have to worry about him not being there in flesh, because he’ll definitely be there with me in my thoughts.

In an effort to try to make sense of all this, I continue rely on my mantra of “Everything happens for a reason.” When I think of what this reason could be, I hope that all the accounts of his life and the way he lived will show others how to truly have as positive an effect on the people they encounter as Tombol did.

Malik family: You can be proud of the way Tombol lived his life. I feel privileged that I had the opportunity to know him. I’ll keep both you and Tombol in my thoughts.

With Love,

Jeanelle Sims

Tombol

I had the pleasure of calling Tombol one of my friends throughout grammar and high school.  I am furious at the way we've lost my him, one that always had a smile on his face and never had any enemies.  I remember going to Florian with my friends Darryl and Erik just to see him (well I just thought he was so cute) and chill on the weekends.  I will miss seeing him coincidentally on 53rd St. or at random get-togethers.  Although Tombol is gone, he will always watch over his Hyde Park family with a smile and kind heart.
 
Love Always,

Lisa Laws

Tombol will be missed...

I went to high school with Tombol. He was truly special and unique. I am greatly pained to hear that such a horrible thing happened to such a wonderful person. He was always happy and kept a smile on his face. He was so mature and use to give great advice. I remember one year he wrote in my high school yearbook, that it is better to keep to yourself and stay out of trouble, than to strive to be popular. He received attention because of the good qualities he displayed not because of trying to fit in. He had such in impact on my life that I used to talk about him to my sisters. He was loved by many, and will be missed.

Mourning,

Evita T.

My Condolences

Samil and Malik Family:

I met Tombol a few times when he visited Samil at U of I.  He was obviously a very special person - very gentle and sweet.  I offer my deepest sympathies for your loss.  His death was senseless and terrible and I cannot imagine the pain you must feel.  My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Sweta

This is the Tombol we know and love...

Tombol

To the Malik family and all of Tombol's friends,

I never had the chance to meet Tombol, but I am with you in grieving his loss. I am outraged with you at the release of his murderers. I am hoping with you that justice is ultimately done. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

The vigil last night was powerful, beautiful. The diversity of friends and supporters that attended says so much about Tombol, the kind of open and loving person he was: able to reach out and connect in world that wants to isolate, suffocate, violate.

I send you peace, hope, and love in this time of grief and outrage.

Yours,
Tanuja

with all my heart...

Tombol's family-

My name is LaToya Jones. Tombol and I were very good friends since the seventh grade at Ray School Rm. 307. Later in high school we became best friends and shared many late night conversations daily and exchanged more than enough witty sarcasm. It absolutely broke my heart to realize that I will never again encounter his beautiful spirit, but I marvel at the more that great times we shared, and it calms me to know that the loved we shared was always real no matter what. In this time of silent sorrow, my entire heart goes out to you guys because I loved Tombol very deeply, and it is impossible to love Tombol without being grateful from the family that he belonged to. I call him my sweet love, and he is.

I love you guys, and may peace be unto you

LaToya Jones

Thoughts to the Family

I am a Kenwood Grad Class of 1991, my older sister Class of 1989 and little sister is Class of 2001. I remember Tombol from Cafe Florian in Hyde Park. We all swore he was so handsome! My sister (c/o 2001) said he went to Kenwood with her, so that added to his appeal.

It is very hard to lose a family member or friend. Our condolences to the family and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts....

Aletta

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

My name is Christina Thomas and I grew up with Anthony and tombol. I attended Ray and Kenwood. I am currently in New Orleans and was very shocked and angered to hear about Tombol's passing. The Ray class of 96 is an extremely close group and we have lost too many. Althought Tombol is gone, he will never be forgotten, his laugh will always be heard through out the hallways of Ray. You are in my thoughts and prayers

Christina

Condolences and Prayers

My name is Michael Brown. I went to Ray School with Tombol from 3rd grade to 8th and we were pretty tight. During lunch time, we always managed to get into something. I can remember when we were In 7th and 8th grade, Tombol would walk with me after school to pick up my little brother Matthew pre-school. Since I stayed in Hyde Park we even hung out after school together.

The one thing that made Tombol special was his humor and wit. He was never a follower and was cool in his own way. Every time we ran into each other we would talk for hours, just catching up on what was going on in our lives. It is really amazing how many people knew Tombol and how many lives he touched. Tombol was truly a good friend and kind person, he will always be missed.

Our condolences and prayers to the Malik family.

Michael, Lurie and Matthew Brown

my thoughts and prayers...

To Samil and Family--

I had heard the story in the news, but Melissa helped me make the connection to you, as I had didn't realize it at the time. I can't even put into words my sympathies. I have a brother, and the thought of losing him is beyond measurable pain. This is truly senseless and I am shocked people as vile are even allowed to walk the streets.

Nothing can ever make up for this loss, but cherish all the memories you have and visit them every day. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I truly hope that all the support around will provide you with the strength you need to get through this difficult time.

Please take care...
Biny

Comment on Tombol's tragic death

Our two sons, Michael and Erik, grew up in the Hyde Park Neighborhood and knew Tombol. Michael, in fact, worked with him on occasion. Our family is shocked and saddened by what happened. Please accept on condolences. We will keep you all in our prayers.

Clifford J. Treese

my condolenses

hello Malik Family,

My name Anwar Burt and I wanted to let you all that tombol was a friend of mine and one of my favorite server while he work at Cafe Florian. We shared many memories and his presence is deeply missed. I have you all in my prayers during this trying time

tombol

Dear Maliks,

I almost don't know where to begin, but I will try. It has been an honor to be with you in this terrible time, you are an incredible family. While I was riding in the car last night with you I was moved by your love for each other and the deep understanding that siblings seem to share. I want to say that you are fortunate to have each other but I also feel that the special bond between the three of you cries out for your lost brother, like something that is perfect and is now missing a piece. It's hard to imagine the horror of loosing a loved one so young and in so violent a manner. When I lost my father I felt both that it was both an undeserved loss and that somehow it was fated. That all the paths of our lives converged on this event and then spred out from it, but it didn't have to happen. This should never have happened to Tombol. I am so sorry and I hope I can be of some comfort as you deal with this tragedy.

Much love,
Ariel

Hi,

My name is Darcel Clayborne and I attended Kenwood Academy with Tombol. My heart and prayers goes out to your family for such a terrible lost. Tombol will always be remembered.

Thank You and God Bless,

Darcel Clayborne

Tombol Malik

Deepest sympathies for your family during this time and hoping you find comfort in the lifetime of special memories of your brother.

Sandra
New York, NY

Thinking of you and praying every day.

Dear Malik family,

When I heard the messages on my answering machine about what had happened to Tombol, the first thing I thought about was how it could not be possible. I'm sure that anyone who knew Tombol would say that he was not the kind of guy who would be in that type of a situation. I knew Tombol since I was nine years old. We went to Ray School, Kenwood, and Harold Washington together. Sati, I do not have enough words to say how sorry I am about this, and how unfortunate this is for you and your family. James, Kitty, and Wyllys are all thinking of you and your family. I have many wonderful memories of Tombol and how supportive he was as my friend. I will miss this big gentle giant. I will always remember the times we spent at Florian, and at Sonoteque where we listened to reggae music. I will remember all of the wonderful and kind words that he said to me and I will never forget him.

love, Leonie Mann

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

I hope you will accept my sincerest condolences during this time of loss for your family. I never had the opportunity to know Tombol other then hearing his name from my friend Lana, but I did have the opportunity to meet Samil and Aliya when I came to Chicago in April. Due to the horrendous circumstances of Tombol's death my mind is numb and I feel lacking anything of true solace that could be said to you all. However, know that Samil and Aliya, you are in my thoughts and I wish you and your families peace.

All my best,
Nancy Vitello
Denver, CO

Tombol

My name is Suheily Natal and I went to Ray and Kenwood with Tombol. I can't ever remember a time when Tombol wasn't smiling. I am so incredibly sad about this. My prayers continue to be with you.

deepest sorrow

With deepest sympathy I send this to you. I am a junior at UIC and a friend of Tombol. I met him my freshman year. He was such a sweet boy. He was a great person. I wish you strength and hope, that he will most certaintly be in a better place. May God be with you, may God help you understand this tragedy.

Most respectfully,

Farah Shakir

So very sorry...

My heart goes out to all of you in this time of sorrow, outrage and pain. Mere words can not even begin to express how sad and disheartend our entire family is over Tombol’s horrific death.

My very best regards to all.
Love,

Charly

Condolences

Dear Family,

My name is Amy, I'm a friend of Dianne Yurco's. I was acquainted with your mother through Dianne, and have met her, and some others of you, at Dianne's place a couple of times.

I am so sorry to hear this devastating news. Words fail entirely.

If I can be of any assistance to you, I hope you will call on me. I live in Hyde Park, I have a car. I know Dianne is away. If I can help out with rides or in any other way, I would like to.

I keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Yours in sorrow,

-Amy

We are greiving ...

with you all. I was blessed to know Tombol at the Park Grill. He clearly demonstrated a big heart and pure family values. We knew him as a friendly team player who understood the value of "making people happy." He'll be missed. My prayers are with the family.

Mario Ponce
former General Manager, Park Grill at Millennium Park

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

I smile when I think of how we used play in that big old yard in back of your building on Maryland and the tot-lot after school and all summer long. Sati, Shiera, Samil, Molly, Jay, Heather, Danny and I.

In 7th grade something happened to Sati. Girls lost their minds over him. He became this hottie! I could tell he wanted to run for his life from some of them. I recall when Tombol was a lump in his mother's tummy and then when he first began walking. He grabbed EVERYTHING he could reach. Shiera and I used to play with him and say, "What a happy little guy he is." He had the most infectious laugh when he was little. (I hope that carried into his adulthood.) I can see that he grew up to be happy and very loved guy.

Tombol will be greatly missed.
You are in my prayers Malik Family.

Shafi

Tombol

Samil and Family

My name is Gina (Cervantes) Egeland I am formerly of Chicago and am currently living in Iowa City, IA. Samil, you will remember me as your manager several years ago at the Structure store on Michigan Avenue. I was reading the Chicago Tribune online on Sunday when I came across the article regarding the tragic death of your beloved brother Tombol, my heart dropped when I realized through quotes and later pictures in the paper that it was indeed your brother. I have been thinking of all of you ever since, just cannot get you out of my mind. I am so sorry for the loss that you are experiencing, I have two brothers and although they live on opposite ends of the country, cannot imagine what my life would be without them. I wish that I could be with you tonight at the gathering that you are holding to express your outrage that one of these individuals has been released on bail, as I am outraged as well, I will be there with you in spirit. I can see from all the letters from friends and family on the web-site you created for Tombol that he was a very special person, I know I would have liked him as I instantly did Samil when I hired him on so many years ago. Through the strength of your family and friends you will get through this dark time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.


God Bless,


Gina (Cervantes) Egeland

deepest sympathy for Tombol...

Dearest Malik Family,

I met Tombol only a couple of years ago dancing around from scene to scene. He has always been one of the nicest guys I've met. We would joke around more than anything, never serious, but he'd watch us girls in a protective manner...always a safe-keeper.

I am so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful and endearing brother, son and friend. His spirit will forever grace us and remind us to stay gentle. I can only hope that this horrible event will find the justice it deserves. Know that all of us stand next to your family and that when you call on us for comfort or help, an army will be waiting.

Peace be with you,

~Anna~ Medakovich

from his librarian at Ray

Dear Malik Family,

It was my honor and priviledge to know Tombol every year that he was at Ray School. At the school library, I see children over a period of years and watch them grow and develop. Tombol is one of the people that I knew as a student at Ray who made a lasting impression on me. He loved his friends, especially Anthony. He loved baseball. He loved coming to the Library and just talking, sometimes skipping lunch recess to do so. He was always part of whatever was going on, but he had a gentle, reflective streak and he enjoyed coming to discuss his feelings, his hopes and his dreams in a quiet place.

Leslie

Tombol Malik

Dear Malik Family:

I want to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I was a friend of Tombol, we attended Kenwood High School together.

Very truly yours,

DeAnna Rose Foster

Condolences

To the Malik family,

I didn't know Tombol, but I play soccer often with Sati. I just wanted to express my sympathies for your loss. What happened to him was truly a tragedy, and my prayers are with you.

--Eric Sun

condolences

I wish all of you love, faith, and comfort.

Danny Gordon

Tombol

Our family was heartbroken to hear and read about Tombol and the horrific circumstances of his death. We are friends of the Straus family, and had met and seen Tombol with David on many occasions. Our daughter, Rebecca, was a year behind him at Ray, and remembers Tombol with great fondness. Words are never adequate for such circumstances, but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We hope that you can find some peace in your memories of such a fine young man.


The Nichols Family

Tombol

I do not believe I had the pleasure of knowing Tombol, but what a shame for what seems to be a good person. My thoughts and well wishes are with the Malik family, and may God rest Tombol's soul. I pray that justice will prevail to the monsters that did this.

Nicole B.

Sincere condolences

To the Malik family --

I did not know Tombol but I wanted to express my sincere sympathy and sadness over such a tragic and needless act of violence.

Tombol appears to have been one of God's chosen soldiers. It's the loss of what could have been for Tombol that makes me the saddest of all -

I hope you will all find the strength to carry on soon --

David Gariano

My Condolences to the Malik Family

My condolences to Tombol's Mother and Family, I did not know your family, nor Tombol. As a mother I feel your mother's heart breaking, as a sister, I also feel the brother's and sister's heart breaking. But rest assure that God will prevail and bring justice to this injustice. Man might not punish this injustice, but God will prevail and bring
comfort and justice where it is needed the most. Put everything in God's hands and you will find peace. Remember that there are loving people in this world that care about you and feeling your pain as their own. God Bless you and give you strength in the days to come.

Angelica,
Elgin, IL.

Thank You Tombol

Thank you, Tombol,

Thank you for always making us smile and laugh! Thank you for caring about poverty,homelessness, and suffering in the world. Thank you for putting others beforeyourself. Thank you for being kind, considerate, and compassionate. Thank you for always being polite. Thank you for thinking outside the box. Thank you for living your life with conviction and purpose. Thank you for being principled. Thank you for respecting all people. Thank you for wanting to make a difference. Thank you for making me think about my own brothers each time I saw you interact with yours. Thank you for giving so much joy and love to your family. Thank you for being an example to all of us. Thank you for being the sunshine in so many lives.

Jim Thiede

Tombol

I knew about this senseless act of violence, but was unaware that the victim was Tombol until I saw his photo. The only way I can adequately describe the way I felt was numb. I worked with Tombol three years ago, and though it was only for a few short months, I always remembered his sense of humor, intelligence and the way he carried himself with a sense of purpose. I still cannot believe that this happened. As evident by the fact that I only "knew" him for roughly 90 days and his passing has affected me in such profound fashion, you can rest assured that your son and brother was truly a special man.

My most heartfelt condolences.

Blair Borgia

Tombol

Dear
Shiera, Sati, Samil Mom and Dad,

My heart goes out to you. Tombol was such a sweet gentle sole and loved by everyone who knew him. I love you all and my thoughts and prayers are with you. I can not imagine the pain and sorrow you all are feeling. Watching you all grow up was a pure joy for me and I will miss Tombol his sweet smile, wonderful sense of humor, how respectful he was towards others and how helpful and caring he was towards people and animals. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Love you all
Christine Bailey

Tombol

My name is Toska Palmer. I didn't know Tombol but felt compelled to read this story posted. Life can be so unfair at times but know that Tombol is in a better place. I know that there's nothing that I or anyone else can say to ease your pain, but know that Tombol is looking down on us wishing that we could have as much peace as he does right now.

Justice will be served.

Tombol

Dear Malik family,

I wanted to offer my condolences during this difficult time. May Tombol's soul rest in peace and may you find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.

I knew Tombol very well. From the minute I met him, I knew he was special. He had smile that would melt your heart, laughter so infectious that your sides would hurt. He was a kind and gentle human being, who made everyone feel special. You should be proud of the son you raised.

He will never be forgotten by the people who loved and cared about him.

It is difficult to comprehend how people behave these days and take away innocent lives. I hope that justice is brought to those animals that committed such a vicious and cruel crime.

Jeannine Colaco

Tombol

I didn't know Tombol. We went through Kenwood eleven years apart. But I knew Sheira from that time and I knew a little about your family. Since Tombol's death, I have learned a lot more. The courage and compassion you all have shown in the face of indescribable tragedy is inspiring. I am amazed by the effort you have put forth to create space for friends of Tombol, and all people who deplore acts of senseless violence, to express their feelings and speak their piece. The result, such an outpouring of affection and sadness, speaks volumes.

My heart goes out to you.

Joe Asbury

Tombol

I was so distressed to hear about Tombol's death and to experience with Mike the terrible unfolding of the details of his senseless death. To witness how Mike and Erik have been affected by this loss I am aware for the first time what a wonderful presence he was in their lives. My heart goes out to you all.

Jean Treese

My condolences

Hello Samil and family,

This is Cory Swafford(from U of I) and I just learned
the tragic news. I want send my deepest condolences
to you and your family.

Cory

Tombol

I do not know you, but after seeing the first dreadful news report of Tombol's attack and death I have not been able to get this horrific senseless tragedy out of my mind. I can only imagine the sorrow, anger, and emotional turmoil you are going through. With tears in my eyes, I read the many posts on the web site you have set up for Tombol, and he was so loved. Everyone speaks of him with such admiration. It is easy to see in your pictures how close and loving your family is. I do not understand why this happened, but as a mother myself I felt inclined to write and express my heartfelt sorrow for your family. I hope with time, and the wonderful memories you have of Tombol, the pain will lesson. I know it will be a hard road, but just reading about Tombol tells me he would want those he loved to live out their lives in the same joyous way you did when he was with you. He will want you to carry on for him just as he remembers life with his family and friends. I know there is not much I can say to relieve your sorrow at this time, but I hope it helps to know so many people are praying for Tombol, his family and friends.

Just a stranger who cares,
Nancy

Tombol...

Tombol, it was a privilege to have known someone as genuine, down to earth, compassionate, and funny as you. The world needs more people like you.

We send our deepest sympathies to the Malik family.

-Alan & Sadie

Prayers

To the Malik Family,

I don't know your family, but I can tell that you are very close. I read about the senseless tragedy in the newspaper and normally just keep on going with my life. As someone with two siblings I couldn't help but feel your sadness.

I just wanted to let you know that my family will offer our deepest condolences and prayers to your family and hope that your brother rests in peace.

Sincerely,

Bruno Dacanay and family
Chicago IL

I'm sorry

To the Malik Family,

My name is Daniel Rogers and I went to Ray school, Kenwood Academy and played Baseball with Tombol for a few years when we were kids. I'm terribly sorry to hear what has happened. My mother Julie Less passes on her condolences as well. You'd think we'd be beyond such pettiness in this world. There is so much that I would like to say, but then again there is nothing that I can say. So, I will just leave you with my thoughts, prayers and the wish that you all can find some measure of peace despite this tragic occurence.

Daniel

Sympathy goes out to Tombol's family and friends...

Dear Malik Family:

I never knew Tombol or anyone from your family. I live in Palos Park and read all about the tragedy in the Tribune and Southtown yesterday--my face was tear streaked by the end of the article. I have not stopped thinking about this incident since I first heard about it. My sympathy and thoughts are with all of you who knew Tombol. I am sickened by what happened...and outraged that a bond was set. I have been discussing this incident with all of my friends...and we are all truly upset by this tragedy. I cannot begin to imagine how the family and friends must feel. This has made me remember what a cruel world we live in--justice must be reached in this case! Know that Tombol's story is spreading and uniting strangers together...though I never knew him, he has definitely still touched my life.

My prayers are with the Malik family and friends.
God Bless,
Shannon

My condolence

My name is Dr. Shelby Wyatt. I am a guidance counselor at Kenwood Academy. I was one of the counselor who worked with Tombol or "Malik" as I called him when he was a student at Kenwood. I'm in utter shock. I learned of this tragedy while vacationing in Baltimore. My sincerest prayers and offers of condolence is extended to each family member and friend. I have found memories of Tombol, especially as he tried to get me to pronounce his last name Malik (short a sound) instead of Malique.

Dr. Wyatt

tombol my friend

Hello

My name is Kevin Lakin i have know Tombol since 2001 through Ben Drake and i got to say he was always happy and having a good time with life. I also DJ and for the past few years Tombol and crew would support me by showing up and being the life of the party. When i heard aobut this inhumane act i thought this city has gone crazy cause it just lost most of it's mass appeal without Tombol. I just really want your family to know that there is a lot of love from many people young and old that will deeply miss Tombol, and his smile and that your family will stay strong and make the best out of the situation. You have all the love in my hart as if i was another son. please accept these kind words into your hearts.

Love
Kevin A Lakin
A.K.A DJ EMO

Tombol

The family and friends of Tombol,

I met Tombol through mutual friends about three years ago. Three of the most memorable weeks of my life were spent with him enjoying the beaches and festivities of Brazil. We traveled through Rio with a carefree attitude, taking in the times and adventures. For the duration of the trip, we were able to experience the beauty of life. We stayed with about 12 people in a three bedroom aprtment. Instead of complaining, Tombol slept outside in a hammock every single night, and left more space for everyone else. That was the kind of person that he was. Although his life was ended by a savage act of violence, nothing can take away the times that people shared with him or the legacy that he leaves us with.

Vincent Goldstein

We Will Miss U!

Dear Malik Family,

I am sorry for your loss. I know words could never fill the empty space in your hearts. Tombol was an amazing guy. His smile brought happiness to everyone. My sister and I will never forget the times he made us laugh. He will be truly missed.

Miriam

My Condolences

Malik Family,

I want to send my deepest condolences. I cannot begin
to describe how shocked and hurt I am right now. May justice prevail.

Sincerly,
Brent Nikolin

Tombol

My heart and prayers for Tombol and his family-

I am so lucky to have known Tombol. He was the lil big heart man of the crew from the Florian. He always had your back, he knew and spoke the truth, and he kept us laughing ALL the time. I have to know that things were better when he was around...my prayers
and heart go to the Malik family. - Patrick Brown

Remembering Tombol

When Tombol was about 9 years old he accidentally saw my mom in her bra. I remember him immediately covering his eyes and ducking his head. For as long as I knew him, Tombol always exuded that same aura of child-like innocence. Tombol’s wondrous eyes absorbed only the splendor of the world around him. Tombol translated that splendor it into a brilliant smile that he so generously shared with us. His smile exuded a joy and vivaciousness beyond description. I wish I could cover my eyes and duck my head in response to this horrible tragedy. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Only the good die young.

Rachael S.

Tombol

Tombol always seemed so happy and funny whenever I saw him in the hallways at Kenwood. He and my brother graduated in the same year and he and I both are saddened at the news of his passing. When my brother learned of his death, he was out with friends and could not bring himself to dance knowing what happened. So thank you to his family for nurturing the gift that was Tombol and my family's prayers are with you.

Nicole and Alvin Black 3rd & family

Tombol

Tombol, my brother, my friend.....you are with us always and forever.

We miss you.

Ed

Little Brother

Mr. & Mrs. Malik, Shiera, Sati, and Samil

We offer our deepest sympathies and prayers for your family. My name's Theo. It was never spoken, but I felt that it was a mutual feeling between Tombol and I, that he was like a little brother to me. His loss has affected me in a way that I would have never thought possible. Trips to New York and working together at Florian are only a small part of the memories that I'll cherish. Tombol's approach to life and new experiences was one of wide-eyed curiosity. His sense of humor and quick wit were his trademark. He was one of the most mature young men that I ever had the good fortune of meeting. His physical form may no longer exist, but his spirit remains.

Love you little brother,
Theo, Melissa, & Miles

My condolenses

The Malik Family,
Ever since I met Tombol on the varanda in me and Ben's apartment in Brazil, I noticed that we saw the world through the same light. He was a visionary with an incredibly strong character that never stopped fighting for justice and truth. We would talk about how the world needed to be changed and how we would change it. When there was a moral dilemma he would help me look at things objectively to see what was the best thing to do. He would be most appalled by what happened Sat. But Im sure he would still have faith. He became one of my best friends in in only two years of knowing him. I will never forget how he inspired me to never lower the bar on whats right and
whats wrong. I remember how important it was for him to ensure that his sister had a good time when she visited and that everyone treated her with respect. He put her and his other family members before everyone and I regret greatly not being at the vigil. I send my deepest blessings to the Malik family. Throughout the day, and mostly when I go to sleep, I shake my head in disbelief so as to wake myself up from this nightmare. He has changed me and will be in my heart, wherever I go, forever.

genuinely,
alex

Big Smiles

Smiling! BIG SMILES! I mean HUGE! That is how I remember 4 year old Tombol tagging along behind his big brother Sati at Hyde Park Soccer club games. When I saw Tombol just over a year ago at the Café Florian… he was smiling! Tombol is smiling in all of the pictures on your BLOG. When I think about Tombol, and not the horror of this tragedy… I cannot help but SMILE! I know Tombol is watching over us all… and I bet he’s smiling!

My deepest condolences…

Erik Treese

Big Smiles

Smiling! BIG SMILES! I mean HUGE!

That is how I remember 4 year old Tombol tagging along behind his big brother Sati at Hyde Park Soccer club games. When I saw Tombol just over a year ago at the Café Florian… he was smiling! Tombol is smiling in all of the pictures on your BLOG.
When I think about Tombol, and not the horror of this tragedy… I cannot help but SMILE! I know Tombol is watching over us all… and I bet he’s smiling!

My deepest condolences…

Erik Treese

Please be strong...

please be strong, and carry on Tombol's light within yourselves. I pray for peace in my city of Chicago, and in the world.

signed,

an aquaintance of Anthony Popelka, he knows me as Skulken from TZT.

Remembering Tombol

I knew of Tombol through my brother fred who graduated from Kenwood in 2001. As i returned home from out of town on Monday, my brother called and said Tombol had been killed. I was sadden by this news and thought how could a person murder such a nice person as Tombol. He was a bright young man with a promising future. To the Malik family i am sorry for your loss and you will be in my contiunal prayers. The memory of Tombol will always be with me and. I know the Kenwood Academy Alumni who knew Tombol are sadden by the loss but know we must not forget the times we had at Kenwood. For his memory will live on.

Respect in Peace Tombol
Donald Penman

To Tombol

Tombol-

I remember the first time I met you ... it was on your birthday this year. Aliya had told me so much about you and Samil, I was excited to finally get the faces with the names. I remember feeling instantly accepted, you were just that kind of person. You just had a way of making people feel that they were worth knowing. You would go out of your way to make sure that everyone had what they needed ... was comfortable ... having a good time ... it was who you were, you couldn't help it. You turned out to be one of my favorite dance partners ... me you and Aliya @ Sound Bar love those pics!! It seemed like whenever we would hang out there was some sort of dancing and just ... happiness involved, I mean, people were just happy around you. I feel so lucky that I got to spend that evening with you and Paul having drinks and talking about films ... you had great taste in movies and a hilarious NY Italian accent that you would throw out at just the right time and make everyone laugh, it never got tired, it was always funny. You were so passionate about your trip to Egypt and my mom had just gotten back, I remember how interested you were in her experience and thinking ... wow, this human being is so incredibly special. I'm not sure that you had any idea how much I looked forward to seeing you, even though I know you know now and that, in a way, is comforting.

Thank you for letting me know you for the brief time I did ... I will always remember your life and celebrate your incredible spirit.

With all the love I have-
Lana

tombol, rest in peace

Dearest Malik Family,

Ever since my nephew Anthony was a little kid, I have always heard the name Tombol. Tombol was like a brother to Anthony, an integral part of his life. I have a feeling that many people felt this way about Tombol and that is a wonderful tribute to him and to you, his family. Please know that we are all feeling your pain and sorrow during this horrific time and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Words cannot express our solidarity with you. Living so far away, I feel so helpless as I cannot be there for my nephew during his great pain and sorrow. Therefore, I can only pray that the heavens and angels give you all the strength to carry on.

With deepest regret and sympathy,
Annie Popelka
Madrid, Spain

Tombol

Samil: When I first heard the news about Tombol I did not make the connection that he was your brother until I saw your picture in today's Tribune. It's a terrible, senseless tragedy.

Katey and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Warm regards,

Bob

quotes

Yesterday I learned that Tombol loved Charles Dickens. As I fumble to come up with my own words to describe the many memories and feelings I have about Tombol and his family, I thought I would turn to Dickens for some help. Here are a few quotes that speak to Tombol’s kindness, generosity and beauty—and how much he is loved.

“A loving heart is the truest wisdom.”

“Charity begins at home, and justice begins next door.”

“Cheerfulness and contentment are great beautifiers and are famous preservers of youthful looks.”

“Friendless I can never be, for all mankind are my kindred, and I am on ill terms with no one member of my great family.”

Gin Kilgore

our heartfelt thoughts are with you

Dear Karen, Sheira, Sati, and Samil,

John and I are so sorry and saddened by the news of Tombol, and he, along with each of you, has been in the forefront of our thoughts these last few days. He was such a nice kid, and from all accounts he had become a wonderful young man as well. I feel guilty for not having made more of an effort to keep in touch. In spite of that, we often think about all of you and the good times that we had together. I can still hear Tombol's infectious laugh and see his playful eyes as he was thinking of a "trick" to play on someone. Our lives are richer for having known him, and we'll cherish our memories of him always.

Love,
Trinda and John

He Was One Of My Best Friends

My name is Anthony Roberts and Tombol was one of my closest friends. Since high school, he was one of the few people in my circle that I can say that I truly loved. I'm still not quite wrapping my mind around this whole thing because we had made plans to do radio show and clothing line in the near future and now its like...I offer my deepest sympathy for Mrs. Malik and all of Tombols siblings. He will truly be missed

Anthony Roberts

Your Son & Brother

To the Malik Family,

I would like to express my sympathy during this challenging time. I hope the many thoughtful words that you have received from people you know and those you don't will offer you comfort. The world we share is a complicated place and tragic events sure appear that the world is turning upside down. May you be surrounded by the love of your family during these days. Know that the citizens of Chicago are thinking of you. Your son and brother truly had a wonderful spirit and a great sense of humor. To the parents, you did something right in how you raised this fine citizen of the world. Please feel proud in this.

With Compassion,

Steven Cohn
Skokie

Tombol

Hello,

You don't know me, but a friend of Tombols informed our web community as to what happened, and I'd just like to extend my condolences.

Bret C.

Tombol

I met Tombol through mutual friends back in Kenwood. I noticed immeadiately he had an aura of kindness around him. We saw each other once more last year through his best friend, we could not shut up about old days in high school.He will be missed very much he was one of the people that defined Chicago in my eyes. I wish strength and comfort for his family, know that he is safe now!

Gone 2 soon but never 4gotten
R.I.P Tombol
see you when I get there
Justin K.

Tombol & Friends

My Deepest Sympathy

Dear Samil and Malik Family,
My heart is very heavy with sadness for your great loss. Although words cannot take away your pain, please know you are in my thoughts and being lifted up in prayer. I pray God's peace and comfort be with you.

Love,
Shana Pearson
Kenwood Academy Class of '95
University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana Class of '99

R.I.P. Tombol

Many things that happen in life seem unreal and totally unexplainable. Unfortunately, the world can be a very ugly and scary place at times. To the Malik family, I would just like to emphasize that Tombol represented the opposite part of the world. He was an exemplary young person and someone who served as a symbol for how young men should be in the world today. He was very kind, compassionate, and loved to laugh and have fun. He was the type of person that people wanted to be around. Since I first met him at Ray school all the way through the last time I saw him this past February, I never once had anything negative to say about him or saw him act in anything but a positive manner. Though we were not the closest of friends, I always knew that Tombol was a unique individual and a shining example for his friends and those around him. In the difficult time to come, I hope that the Malik family finds solace and peace in knowing that though Tombol was taken from you far too soon, the impact he made on those that knew him can never be taken away and will never be forgotten. My mother and I extend our most heartfelt condolences.

-Adam D

Tombol

We will miss you...

Tombol always made me smile whenever I saw him because he had the type of personality that just radiated throughout the room. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Love,
Afshin Shiraz

In memory of Tombol

This is a poem I have taken some comfort in. My most heartfelt sympathies go out to your family.
Aviana Bowie

***********************

The Peace of Wild Things

When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least soundin fear of what my life and my children's lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds. I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

— Wendell Berry

Tombol visiting Samil at U of I

Deepest Condolences

Dear Malik Family,

I don't know you nor did I know Tombol, but I was deeply moved upon reading and seeing news reports of this tragedy. I can't say I know what you are going through, but my heart and prayers truly go out to you. Tears alone don't express it, but I am grieving for you and the world to have lost a good, kind-hearted individual such as your son and brother. My 23-year old sister and I are very close, and it sounds like we share a similar relationship as your family and Tombol. You have my sincerest sympathies and prayers...Chicago is hurting with you.

Henry Heisler

Sympathies

We don't know each other, but I wanted to extend my deepest sympathies to your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Matt S.

Tombol in NYC for the Rocksteady Anniversary

Tombol

Tombol was one of the kindest, most considerate people I have ever known. When I first met him, I was instantly drawn to his humor and his quick smile. We used to talk politics and family and he even tried to educate me on music... once. He always spoke so warmly about his family, he made it clear that you were his foundation. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful human being with all of us. I hope that you can take some comfort in the knowledge that he will never be forgotten. Forgive another cliché, but to know Tombol was to love him.

Peace be with all of you.

Virginia Anderson

Tombol in Brazil

A special man

To the Malik family,

I had the privilege of first getting to know Tombol as a co-worker at the Park Grill, and ultimately as a friend. Talking with him, we both were interested in photography, travel and everything in between. His curiosity and drive for knowledge was amazing. He strove to succeed and honestly, nothing stood in his way. I am going to miss his laughter the most. He was, is, a special person that will ALWAYS have a place in my heart. I thank all of you for having given the rest of the world a chance to get to have known him. My prayers are with you.

Eileen Black

Thank you to all those that attended the speak out

Here are some pictures from last night...

View Pictures




Thanks to Erik Treese for the pictures.

WEDNESDAY 8PM, JULY 13TH

TO ALL THOSE WHO LOVED TOMBOL, FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CONCERNED PEOPLE WHO WANT TO SPEAK OUT AGAINST BOND BEING SET FOR HIS TWO ATTACKERS PLEASE JOIN US AT:

1535 S. SANGAMON (AT THE END OF THE CUL-DE-SAC) 8PM, WEDNEDSDAY,
JULY 13TH

Chicago Sun-Times Article


PLEASE BRING SIGNS, CANDLES, AND ANYTHING YOU THINK WILL HELP EXPRESS OUR DISTRESS

PLEASE DIRECT QUESTIONS TO: FAMILY.MALIK@GMAIL.COM

Dancing as usual...

Tombol-my student

To the Malik family,

I am greatly sorry for your loss. I had Tombol as a student at Kenwood Academy. He was everything an exceptional student should be: bright, good-natured, a contagious smile and a sense of humor, well-behaved and he could articulate his thoughts. I don't know why bad things happen to good people, but I do know that I can celebrate his life.

May God bless your family with comfort and peace.

Paul Brush

Malik Brothers

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

Amid all the terrible stories on the news – Iraq, London, Africa, Afghanistan – the tragic story of Tombol’s death and your loss leapt out and broke my heart. In truth, violence is never “global”: It happens to one person at a time. I’m so very sorry for your sorrow and pain. I pray that someday there will come a time when the joy you have in remembering Tombol will overcome the pain of his loss. May God be with you.



Grayson VC

Tombol

Our Life With Tombol

I met Tombol very recently just a couple of times, but he left a lasting impression on me. It was very fun and easy to talk to him, I just remember a tall, handsome, smiling sweet guy. My heart goes out to his family and friends, I can see what a great loss he will be for many.

Tina Shah

Family & Friends

Tombol

Dear Malik Family,

I am very sorry for your loss. I heard from Winston and Ed on Sunday. I know Sati, of course, from back in the day, but I remember Tombol from around the neighborhood and from seeing him play basketball a couple of times some years ago at the U of C Field House. I know few words can be consoling at this time, but I simply wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Best Wishes,

Gabe

Tombol dancing...

My Condolences

My Name is Alesea. I attended both Kenwood and UIC with Tombol. Words can't express the hurt and sorrow that I feel. Tombol was a smart, amazing, and unique individual with a smile like no other that no one will ever forget. It was always a pleasure to be in his presence. Tombol ... You were an angel in disguise and will truly be missed but never forgotten! May justice prevail and peace be with your family.

Samil, Tombol, & Aliya

to Samil and Family

Samil & Family -

You, mehb, amir, and all the other guys have always been like brothers to me at U of IL - guys that i wouldn't have to see or hear from everyday to know that i am close with... I can't imagine the pain you must be experiencing with the loss of a brother, friend, and companion at such a young age... but i would like to send my condolences to you and your family at this very difficult time.

I remember having met your brother when you lived down there and within minutes i felt as comfortable with him as I did with you the day i met you...it is a senseless tragedy and I send my prayers to you and your family during this difficult and trying time.

Regards,

Terrence M.

Tombol

Remembering Tombol

To the Malik family,

Please accept our deepest and heartfelt condolences. We can barely begin to imagine the shock and sorrow you must be feeling. We want you to know that Tombol will always be remembered by those who knew him. The memory we choose to hold in our mindseye is the image of a skinny smiling boy whose warmth was palpable and endearingly genuine. The joy of the seemingly inseparable friends, Tombol and Anthony, whose laughter filled the Drexel alley will always ring in our hearts.


With deep sympathy from your former neighbors.

The Shaw Family

Tombol & Friends

I'm very sorry for your loss

Dear Malik Family,

Tombol and I were in German II together last fall at UIC and I loved his company. Joking around with him, although not all that productive, was the best way to keep our heavy eyelids open in the not-so-early morning hours.

We had a great conversation on the train ride home on the last day of class. We both had somewhat rocky semesters, but his attitude was still so encouraging. He was willing and even excited to move on, looking forward to some time abroad as his greatest motivation to plow through his last years in school. He had such a glow about him, it was hard not to follow suit.

Tombol was a wonderful person and he will truly be missed. My deepest condolences to you.

Sincerely,
Christine Beggan

Shiera & Tombol

Tombol..

After such a senseless loss, we are haunted by things we can’t understand and look for answers that might never come. May time help you find solace in memories that bring peace and fill your hearts with pride. We are all privileged for having had the opportunity to be connected to someone as wonderful as Tombol. When you need to borrow a little brother, I’ll share mine.

With deepest sympathy,
Kala S

Tombol & Samil

My prayers

I personally did not know Tombol but I went to college with his sister Shiera. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.


Bhavana T

Tombol & Patrick

Condolences

I am very sorry for your loss.
Ed P.

Tombol

As a mother, a sister and a person I am so sorry for your loss.  I don't know your family and I never knew Tombol - but I am a parent that has lost a child and I am one of 15 siblings that has lost a brother to an act of random violence and I know and understand your pain.  Nothing I can say will make your pain go away - just know that I and my whole family are deeply sorry for your family.  Our hearts break for you and our tears flow for you.  We wish you Peace.
 
The Perkins Family

to the family of Malik

Hi my  name is Gloria Vega, I live in Texas.  I was reading the news in nbc5 and I read the story.  Tears just filled my eyes.  I am so sorry for what happened.  Justice will be serve.  I know this must be painful but just remember he is in a better place.  I don’t know your family but my prayers and thoughts will be with you and your family. I am 21 years old and have a twin brother and I know that if something like that would happen I wouldn’t be able to survive.   You have a person that cares deeply here in Texas.  God Bless you and your family. Again my prayers are with your family.

Sincerely,

 Gloria D. Vega

sympathies

Dear family,
 
I am very sorry for you loss of your son and brother.
May God be w/you in this time of sorrow. 
 
Regards, RK

Tombol Malik

The Malik Family,
Ever since Tombol and I began to trade computer games in grade school I realized that he was a very warm, calm, and funny person unlike most any that I knew. I was jealous how he always seemed so relaxed and happy whenever I saw him. I would like to thank him deeply for welcoming me to Ray School and for continuing to be my friend ever since. I would also like to thank you for providing me with a great friend of his caliber. You have the right to be truly proud of your son, he was an extraordinary person who now lives through the model he has set for everyone he has known. I extend my deepest respect and sympathy towards your family and friends; Tombol is most certainly missed.

In dynamic peace,
Bernie R

Remembering Tombol

My name is Kelli Ward and I went to high school with Tombol at Kenwood and I wanted to send my condolences to his family.
 
Tombol was an amazing person and a great friend. He was always willing to lend a helping hand when he could and was a truly genuine person.   I will always remember Tombol for his sense of humor, his love for music, and his ability to befriend any and everyone.  
 
Tombol will always be remembered. 

Hello

My thoughts and prayers are with you.
 
Scott K.

Tombol

I am very sorry to hear the terrible news.  I remember Tombol coming up to U of  I to visit Samil and playing Twisted Metal 2 with me.  RIP.
 
Robin