J.J. Stinson, a sophomore philosophy major, passed away earlier this week while in Switzerland studying abroad.
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A Virginia Tech student— known for getting his peers to sing together and engaging them in debates — passed away while studying abroad in Switzerland earlier this week.
John B. "J.J." Stinson, a Presidential Global Scholar studying at the Riva San Vitale in Switzerland, went missing on Friday. He was a second-year student and an academic junior.
Police found his body at 7:00 p.m. local time, according to Craig Wainner, one of Stinson's roommate at the villa and a junior economics and international studies major. However, Wainner would not disclose where Stinson's body was found. There is no indication of foul play, and police are continuing an investigation of the cause of death, according to a statement from the university.
Police began searching for Stinson after the weekend came to a close — it was personal travel weekend, meaning many students left the area on trips. Students who leave are supposed to leave a note, but Stinson did not leave one before he left.
“Honestly no one knew (where he went)," Wainner said, "We had all asked him, and he said, ‘Hey, I’m just going, just wandering.’ He was the kind of person who just wandered and explored things, he never told us where he was going (for this particular trip)."
Stinson, a philosophy major and Dean's List student, was known for his curiosity, both in terms of exploring and asking big questions.
“He was always inquisitive, always challenging you to think in different ways,” Wainner said. “He liked to put you on the spot, but in a friendly way. He loved to have friendly discussions and debates.”
Wainner said his cheerful personality will be missed.
“He had lots of energy, always happy, always smiling, fun loving," Wainner said. "He was a great friend, and a lot of us will miss him. He’s in our hearts.”
Stinson, of Alexandria, Va., was one of 30 students participating in the Presidential Global Scholars program at the Center for European Studies and Architecture. Students in the program spend spring semester at Tech's Riva San Vitale in Switzerland.
The villa is also being used by students studying architecture. The architecture students were away are are returning tonight local time. All of the Tech students will hold a candle light vigil.
Last night, the Newman Community Catholic Campus Ministry held a prayer service at the Newman House. Stinson was an active member of the community.
A version of this article appeared in the Apr 12 issue of the Collegiate Times.
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Totally unfair. Sorry, JJ.
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I'll miss you J.J., you were a great guy. You made me feel at home at BI despite not even going there. You were the main reason I thought BI would be a great school for me to go to, and I'm sure everyone there will miss you, too. R.I.P.
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R.I.P my friend. he was our SPL for Boyscouts
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This is terribly sad news. This is a crazy world we live in & not all we run across are kind souls. It sounds old & worn out , but it's so important to Always tell someone where you are going , your destination & if you will be meeting up with anyone. None of us are ever truly out of harms way because anything can happen at anytime . Something by nature or something that is against nature . Always tell someone where You'll be . Always. My deepest sympathies to his family , friends & fellow classmates.
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JJ was a fantastic guy. RIP.
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He was a great guy. Always lighted up the room. His heart had this joy that brought a smile to everyone's face he interacted with. rest in peace, praying for you forever and always <3
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Does anyone know if this police report is regarding JJ? http://is.gd/VS51od
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Pretty sure that report was about him, though there are newer, more relevant reports.
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He was a friend of mine and a wonderful person. I am so sad to learn this :'(
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JJ had a great personality to go along with his great mind. He was bright, enthusiastic, and insightful in the class I shared with him. He will certainly be missed. RIP JJ.
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We have known JJ since the days when he played chess at St. Louis Elementary, a great player a smart and good kid. Our son Juan Carlos, who still goes to Bishop Ireton, woke us up last night to let us know about his death. He was obviously distraught by the news. Our prayers go to JJ and his family. We heard there will be at the mass on his honor today at Bishop Ireton HS, 6:30 PM.
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My most sincere condolences to Mr Stinson and Ms. Doherty, JJ's parents, and also to Kerry hi sister. Words are not enough to express the pain caused by the loss of such a dear friend, but I know that he would want me, and all of his friends, to look forward into the future with a smile on our faces and a positive attitude. RIP my beloved sweet caring brother, I will miss you like you have no idea, and I'm sure that everyone leaving comments here misses you and will miss you. It is truly a tragedy what has happened, but in the midst of trouble, I can have peace because I am certain that I will see our beloved friend when I'm called to God's presence like he was. Hang in there everyone,I'm sure that is what JJ would have wanted, and again my most sincere condolences to the family
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For the record, JJ is academically a junior, as per the university's notice. However, he is a second year student, thus I described him as a sophomore in the traditional sense.
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I had a class with J.J. last semester. He always asked the most intriguing questions and had the class cracking up. I'm in shock.... RIP!
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I've known J.J. since St. Louis on the chess team. He made me an ASPL and taught me how to be a SPL. R.I.P J.J.
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miss you JJ- you were amazing and just so personable- always looked up to you
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Taught him for two years at St. Louis Catholic School in Alexandria. Wonderful student, a gentleman blessed with great qualities. Descansa en paz, J.J.
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J.J. taught me how to be a leader/SPL. He was my mentor. He was a good friend and eagle scout. We will miss you J.J. and I hope you are in a better place.
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