Family, friends remember Vabulas

Family and friends of Peter Vabulas gathered in Goddard Chapel for a memorial service yesterday evening to share recollections of an intelligent and kind young man who was quiet but made lasting impressions on his friends and teachers.

The memorial service was led by University Chaplain Fr. David O'Leary. "Peter was loved, and that love will not die," O'Leary told those gathered in the chapel in the opening prayer. Catholic Chaplain Ann Penick then read the 23rd Psalm.

Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering Susan Ernst said Dean of the Colleges for Undergraduate Education James Glaser was working to have Vabulas' degree awarded posthumously. "Everyone here expected Peter to be here at Tufts, finishing his studies," Ernst said. "Sadly, he is not."

Dean of Students Bruce Reitman thanked those who tried to save Vabulas' life, administering CPR before the paramedics arrived on the scene. "You gave the very best effort anyone could," he told them.

Political science professor Vickie Sullivan, Vabulas' advisor and professor for two classes, remembered him as quiet in discussions but always able to impress his fellow students with his insights. Sullivan taught Vabulas in a senior seminar in which he participated as a sophomore. Vabulas had been registered for one of Sullivan's classes this semester. "In his absence, he will be there," she said.

Vabulas' friends and co-workers from the gaming store in Davis Square where he worked remembered a friend with an excellent sense of humor, and they told stories about times he left them laughing or joined them in games that lasted for hours. "The man I knew was funny, warm, and caring," his boss said.

"His kindness was innate within him," his father, Jerry Vabulas, said. "It wasn't just added afterwards." His parents shared stories about traveling with their son, and letters from elementary and high school teachers who remembered Vabulas' intelligence and kindness.

"His life was short, but full," his mother said. "He had a wonderful life."

Vabulas' family started a memorial scholarship in his name at his high school in Port Washington, NY, where he had excelled in the Science and Math Olympiads and had been a member of the state champion Academic Decathlon team. The scholarship will go to a student who is deemed "most improved." So far, the family has raised $19,000.

To contribute to this fund, checks can be made out to "The Port Washington School District" and marked "In memory of Peter Vabulas." Donations should be sent to: Peter Vabulas Scholarship Fund, c/o Seungwon Vabulas, 56 Soundview Drive, Port Washington,NY 11050.