Father LaRiviere was a huge influence on my life. His personality with the boys was unique to say the least. I still tell stories about him to friends and acquaintances as I have throughout my life.

One of my favorites was how he would throw a heavy biology book like a basketball to the back of the room, landing on the head of a misbehaving student. That would be followed up with his booming voice: "LEVITY!" "THERE WILL BE NO LEVITY IN THIS CLASS!"

I remember memorizing "The Raven" and "The Rhyme of The Ancient Mariner" for his class. He showed us that the impossible could be accomplished. "TWO HOURS A NIGHT!", that was our homework command. And you did two hours because you knew the consequences if you did not do it. He was extremely intimidating. But it worked.

I got to see his softer side when John Talbot and I were locked up in Juvenile Hall for two weeks for joyriding in a stolen car. Father LaRiviere came to my cell and brought school assignments --Shakespeare. What an incredible experience learning Shakespeare in a jail cell for two weeks! I have loved Shakespeare ever since.

Father LaRiviere spoke kindly to me and heard my confession. I will never forget him.