Memorial Held For Drowned 'U' Student
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- They came from her hometown, her school and her college to say goodbye to Jennifer Houle.
Several hundred gathered at Northrup Auditorium for Sunday's memorial service. The building's grand columns were draped with purple ribbons. Purple was the favorite color of the 22-year-old business major who drowned in the Mississippi River.
"This has been an extremely painful time for our family. We know you have been suffering along with us," John Houle, Jennifer's father, said. "We all felt the overwhelming love and support that has carried us through this difficult time."
He spoke from a podium in front of a large screen that flashed pictures of her daughter from happier times in her life.
The images showed Jennifer Houle with family and friends, from locations overseas and on the University of Minnesota campus to the volleyball court she shared with teammates at Stillwater High School. Background music included the Brooks and Dunn version of "You're My Angel."
There were tears shed but also plenty of smiles as moments of her life were recounted by people who knew her best.
"One of the most difficult things for me will be coming to terms with the fact that I won't be able to make any new memories with Jennifer," her brother Mark Houle said. "But I can be totally thankful that have so many great ones to look back on, and I'll cherish every moment we shared together."
Jennifer Houle was a member of Pi Beta Phi, with many of her sorority sisters dressing in black for the solemn ceremony. Others who knew her since grade school showed up in more colorful clothing, matching the upbeat message many decided to deliver.
"Jennifer always wanted to make our lives spectacular," said a woman named Jessica who called Houle her best friend. "Every time I see a shooting star, I will think of her."
Jennifer Houle was last seen in the early morning hours of March 27. Surveillance video showed her alone on the 10th Avenue Bridge before she went into the river, 110 feet below the bridge railing. Her body was found by search teams in the river below the bridge six days later. It's not known if she fell or jumped into the river.
"Jen was an amazing young lady, very vibrant," said Cate Kaler, whose son was one of Houle's friends. "I think Jen would love so many people being here and celebrating who she was."
