Anne Marie Hochhalter, who survived the Columbine High School shooting in 1999, passed away recently at the age of 43. Although she suffered significant injuries, she maintained a spirit of forgiveness and connection, notably bonding with another family affected by the tragedy.
Hochhalter was discovered in her home in suburban Denver, and her family believes her death was due to natural causes related to her long-term injuries. The investigation into her passing has been handed over to the coroner’s office, which previously autopsied the victims from Columbine.
In 2016, Hochhalter reached out to one of the gunman’s mothers, writing, “Bitterness is like swallowing a poison pill.” She sought to convey her forgiveness during this difficult time. At a vigil marking the 25th anniversary of the shooting last year, she reflected on happier childhood memories and emphasized remembering the victims for how they lived.
Despite facing chronic pain from her injuries, Hochhalter dedicated herself to helping others, from those with disabilities to family members and rescue dogs. Her brother, Nathan, spoke of her compassion, saying she was “a good human being and sister.”
Tragically, just six months after the Columbine shooting, Hochhalter lost her mother, who took her own life. In her grief, she found comfort and support from the Townsend family, who also experienced loss that day. Sue Townsend, whose stepdaughter was killed in the shooting, became a close friend and mentor to Hochhalter, helping her navigate the pain and recovery process.
Their bond grew over shared dinners and vacations. Hochhalter found a moment of peace during a trip to Hawaii, where she enjoyed floating in a lagoon, free from pain. This connection allowed her to see the silver linings in the wake of tragedy, as Sue Townsend noted, “This relationship would never have happened if it hadn’t been for Columbine.”
In a poignant exploration of grief, Hochhalter had previously expressed empathy for Sue Klebold, the mother of one of the shooters. She was appreciative of Klebold’s memoir, which aimed to raise awareness about mental health. Hochhalter recognized the struggle of those who lose loved ones to violence and the haunting questions that follow.
Hochhalter once shared powerful advice about bitterness, stating, “It only harms yourself.” She made it clear that her path was one of forgiveness and healing. She attended the 25th anniversary vigil with her brother, who was stuck in a classroom during the shooting, marking a notable step in her journey of recovery.
Anne Marie Hochhalter’s life is a testament to resilience, love, and the profound connections that can arise even in the darkest circumstances.
