Music and chatter amongst occupants of Howe Hall’s Alliant Energy – Lee Liu Auditorium filled the air as 7:30 approached. Strangers were introduced by their common friends; all of them were there for the same purpose, to celebrate the life of Travis “TJ” Good.

The tone of the gathering reflected a statement TJ’s father, Larry Good, had previously made: “TJ wouldn’t want any of this to be a downer; we need to use this opportunity to celebrate TJ’s life.”

A montage of photos and videos of TJ illustrated his outgoing, talented and loving personality.

The presentation consisted of everything from photos of TJ and friends, his work with Iowa State’s chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers steel bridge team, to videos of him dancing at his laser-lit dance parties and his infamous shrimp walk.

Laughs were shared, as well as moments of silence.

Friends, faculty and Good’s brother proceeded to share their fondest memories with all in attendance.

Beth Hartmann, lecturer of civil, construction and environmental engineering, spoke on behalf of Iowa State’s faculty, and shared her experiences with TJ and how his energy and spirit had impacted her.

“I’m thankful that I was in the right place, at the right time, to cross paths with TJ Good,” Hartmann said.

Hartmann also presented the Good family with a collection of letters from faculty and students.

Justin Schultes, a friend of TJ’s, read the poem, “How Do You Live Your Dash,” by Linda Ellis, emphasizing the way in which TJ enjoyed and cherished his life and encouraging others to live their lives to the fullest.

“So think about this long and hard …

Are there things you’d like to change?

For you never know how much time is left,

That can still be rearranged.”

Other friends shared their memories from their time with TJ and how they’re all able to draw inspiration from the life that he led.

Brandon Good, TJ’s brother, spoke about the roller coaster of emotions that he has gone through in the past week and the love that TJ had for Iowa State.

“Whenever he would come home, he’d say that he’d be leaving on Sunday, but then he’d end up leaving on Saturday, because he wanted to get back [to Iowa State] so bad,” Brandon said.

“I think it has shown that, as much as my brother loved Iowa State, Iowa State loved him back.”

The Marston Water Tower was lit Thursday night in honor of Good.