I first met zach when he was a sweet and shy 14 year old. He was a good friend of my best friend's little brother and was always with her family.
Fast forward a few years and he became my cousins boyfriend. He quickly was a favorite among my family, becoming especially close with my brother and now husband. He was there for my cousin during the passing of her mother and was always helpful with her son. He earned the nickname "Stepdad" because he was so good with helping take care of her little boy.
Everyone was disappointed when Zach and my cousin broke up. But that didn't stop my brother and husband from staying good friends with him. He would still come over to my parents house when she wasn't around and everyone was always happy to see him. Teasing him that he should get back together with her so we could see him more often!
To our surprise, several years later they would do just that- move in together and even get engaged.
We have so many good memories of Sunday dinners, traveling together, inside jokes, long talks, and celebrations. Too many to recount. He was considered part of the family- long before he and West decided to get married.
Not often do find someone who fits in with everyone in your family- without even trying... and a part of our family will never be replaced.
I have convinced myself this past year that Zach had been traveling for work, because to admit to myself that I won't see him again is too hard. Too hard to recount all the things he missed this year, including the birth of my son.
I miss his caring heart, sarcasm, and him asking me for advice. I know we will meet again one day. Family is forever. I love u Zach.
-Ash