Friends and family of Brandon Volpi will mark a grim anniversary Sunday at the scene of the crime that stole the young man's life.

Following a mass at St. Anthony's church, his father Danny Volpi will make his way to Les Suites Hotel, where his son was stabbed to death a year ago in a shocking prom night murder.

Friends of the popular 18-year-old St. Patrick's High School student will gather with candles, pictures and other mementos, with organizers asking friends on Facebook to fill the space with memories.

Brandon's father, who was outspoken when accused killer Devontay Hackett was arrested and charged with murder -- with the case still pending before the courts -- was soft-spoken when reached by phone Saturday.

He said he expected "quite a few of Brandon's friends" to show up for the vigil and private memorial service, and acknowledged he'd been "taking some time off from work" as the anniversary approached.

He declined to speak about it over the phone, but in an emotional Facebook post, explained, "The month of June is a month of pain which I have to endure."