This is a hard letter to write, so instead of rewriting it again and again, I thought I'd type it out instead. I understand that this is a most difficult time in your lives, and that nothing I can say will ease your pain, but I felt an urge to contact you.

I believe that I speak on behalf of all of Anton's friends from Egypt and Europe in expressing our deepest and most sincere compassion for the loss of your son. There aren't any words to express our feelings at this moment, but everyone here in Holland, England, and Egypt is heartbroken, devastated, and speechless....

Many of us found out about what has happened only a few days ago, and as much as we may want to, we are not able to give our condolences in person and say farewell to Anton. Nevertheless, I reassure you that we are all thinking of you and your family every minute of the day.

Anton was a fantastic person. There is no replacing him. He was genuine, honest, caring, open, good. I know many people that considered Anton 'their' closest friend (myself included). He was just always there for everybody... Anton was an emotional friend; someone you could so easily be yourself with. He was one of those rare persons with the nature to make people feel at ease. He is someone that I will never forget... In short; an example of what a friend should be.

I feel that it is too soon to talk of fond memories, but I have heard that all of Anton's friends are collecting pictures and memories as a final homage. I'm not sure if anybody really knows just how many friends Anton had. He had been travelling around the world for years, leaving a trail of friends everywhere he went. I think we will all be surprised at the amount of reactions you will receive for this collection of memories. Each of us could write a book about our times with Anton. There will be a few in there that I want to share with you; pictures included.

I am empty for words in expressing my condolences. Awkward as it may seem, I also thank you for having created such a magnificent soul whose warm friendship I -and so many others- have enjoyed. Our memories of Anton will last forever.

With love,

Hans C. Haverhals and friends