The world lost a bright light on February 15, 2024. Although Zac’s life was tragically cut short, he lived every minute to the fullest and accomplished more in 17 years than many do in a far longer lifetime.

There are no words that can fully and properly encompass the amazing, whimsical, brilliant, and beautiful person Zac was, but here are a few highlights.

Zac was a beautiful child who was always smiling and loved making those around him happy. He loved and looked up to his older brother, Jordan, and adored his younger sister, Simone. As a young child, Zac spent a lot of time playing with his siblings, his many cousins, and celebrating holidays at his grandfather’s house. He was always a friend first, feeling deeply what all of those around him needed, carrying that home with him and expressing it in art and writing. Zac was gentle -in all things- to young children, to animals, and to the world.

Zac was a scout from the young age of five and became a BSA Scout in February 2018. He earned 58 merit badges, six Eagle Palms, the World Conservation Award, and earned his Eagle Scout rank. He was awarded the National Award for Meritorious Action for saving the life of two men who nearly drowned while rafting the Brown River. He loved the connections he made while Scouting, and was a founder of the Troop, making it what it is today. The family is so happy to have spent 100 nights camping with him during his scouting years. The time, phone free, in nature is time they will cherish forever.

Zac was set to graduate from Columbine High School in the top 10% of his class. He maintained a 4.5 GPA or greater all four years and would have begun his college career with a year’s worth of college credits. He had offers from every college he applied to, including Colorado School of Mines, University of Denver, and he ultimately committed to University of Colorado’s Engineering program. He was proud of his acceptances and being able to attend school close to home and the family he loved so much.

Zac was an amazing student, who cared deeply for his classmates and teachers at Columbine High School. A truly welcoming and warm school, he felt comfortable and accepted there. He loved challenging himself and working with others on team projects most of all. On a whim, he took a Children’s Theater class sophomore year. He did it for the kids, not for the theater. But that was where his love for the theater began. After that, he worked every show and musical as a techie. He loved lighting and became Light Lead. He loved his Booth Goblins, and we truly believe the theater at Columbine and the amazing teacher, Lauren Wasser, gave him a place he could be himself, feel accepted, and share all of the light he held inside.

Zac had a sharp and witty sense of humor and kept his family smiling and laughing. Any challenge encountered was met with bravery and a smile. Any need that was shared became his to fulfill or solve.

Those who loved Zac the most are committed to honoring his short life and carrying on the legacies he was already building as well as those he will never have the chance to begin or fulfill.