ForeverMissed
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This site was created in memory of our friend Zach.  He was born on January 2, 1999  and passed away on August 3, 2020. His smile and his joy will stay with us forever.  All who were touched by his spirit will remember his ability to make a friend wherever he went. Zach's circle of love is so wide, we couldn't keep track of it all without your help.  Please share your favorite stories and pics of him here so that we can remember his legacy of joy and friendship.

LETTERS TO ZACH
One of Zachary's favorite things was exchanging letters with his friends.  In the spirit of his thoughtful letter writing, please consider writing him a letter.  His family will read each and every one of them to him.
You may email Zach's parents at: rita_estrada@yahoo.com, paul.rosenfeld@gmail.com

WAYS TO HONOR ZACH- (updated)
In the weeks since his passing, many continue to reach out and ask how they may honor Zachary. The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations be made to the following organizations that were so important to Zach throughout his life:
                                                                                                                        
Animal Assisted Happiness. Zach grew up visiting AAH's barnyard animals. The organization offers opportunities for youth with needs to connect with animals. AAH also visits schools, hospitals, and senior programs. Zach always looked forward to greeting the animals at Mountain View High when they made their bimonthly visits :)  https://www.animalassistedhappiness.org/

Bay Area Friendship Circle. FC provides a warm, supportive, and accepting community where everyone belongs. Zach participated in FC camps and Sunday programs for 15 years, making countless lifelong friends. https://www.bayareafc.org/templates/articlecco_cdo...

Magical Bridge Foundation
Magical Bridge Foundation & MV Post Secondary Program are memorializing Zachary with a "Buddy Bench" at the new MV playground. Zach loved getting together with friends at Magical Bridge, a place where playground fun has no limits on age or ability. He was also proud to volunteer for Magical Bridge as a "Kindness Ambassador," a role that was just perfect for Zach's kind heart. https://give.magicalbridge.org/campaign/zach-rosen...

Via West. Via West provides residential camps throughout the year as well as travel camps. We're grateful that Zach got to visit many of his favorite vacation spots with this wonderful organization. He also loved Via West's summer camps and Altitude Camps where he got to practice independence while having fun in a safe, supportive environment.  http://www.viaservices.org/donate/individual

YDFA. Youth Drama For All has the unique ability to find the best in each individual. Zach participated with drama group over ten years. He made great friends over the years through this wonderful program and loved performing at the Mountain View Performing Arts Center. 
http://www.ydfadrama.org/

DRIVE-BY VIGIL ON SUNDAY AUG. 9TH
TIME: 7:30PM -8:15 PM. Please make sure you arrive to line up no later than 7:45 pm 
START: BARBARA AVE in Mountain View
END: Once you have passed Zach's house turn right onto Cuesta and head homeMany have asked what they can do to memorialize Zachary.  -See GALLERY section for flyer
A small private family ceremony will be held this Sunday with a celebration of life to happen next year when it is safer for his friends to gather. 

August 5, 2023
August 5, 2023
Thinking of you, sweet Zach. We will try to carry your happy positive energy in our hearts always. Love, Debbie and Jackie
August 3, 2023
August 3, 2023
I can’t believe that it has been 3 years since you left! Miss you buddy!
January 2, 2023
January 2, 2023
Dear Zach, today I remember you and your beautiful spirit. I will try to carry your happy, beautiful energy with me and live life more fully in your honor.
Love, Debbie and Jackie
January 2, 2023
January 2, 2023
Happy Birthday Zach A day doesn’t go by when you aren’t thought of or missed. Wish we could celebrate with you.

- Paula
January 2, 2023
January 2, 2023
Happy Birthday dear Zach! Even though we miss you, your bright, joyful energy is felt, always with us and continues to put a smile on my face whenever I think of you which is often. Hope you’re having heavenly fun! Love, Andrea
January 2, 2023
January 2, 2023
Happy Heavenly Birthday Zachary! We all miss you, including Bentley.

Love,
Diana, Caroline, Nicole, Eric, Lori, and Cole.
August 3, 2022
August 3, 2022
We are thinking of your bright, happy energy today, Zach. Your joyful energy is always present.
Love, Debbie and Jackie
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
I so enjoyed looking at all the beautiful pictures of Zach's life. I feel so happy to witness such a wonderful person enjoying his life. Zach was so blessed and we were all so blessed to know him.
Love Jackie and Debbie Parsons
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
Many things remind us of how much you are loved , sending you lots of love!
Alexis , Annie, and Rick Morgan
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
ZA-
Today we honor your love and light, by lighting a candle. You are loved and cherished so much sweet angel. It’s been 1 yr since you transitioned, we miss you beyond measure! I look at Obby ( Rita help Ik I spelled it wrong) everyday and know your watching over Marc , myself and Dillon. You brought tons of joy and laughter to our lives. You are deeply loved and a blessing to all who know you! You and Ivanna are watching over us and we feel you. With a heavy heart and tears in my eyes I’ll say, see you around, never goodbye Zack Attack
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
Rest in peace, dear Zachary. You are still fondly remembered at the adult school. Sending you love and prayers in heaven.
May 11, 2021
May 11, 2021
You cross my mind every day Zach. I miss seeing your Facebook statuses and photos of the delicious meals you cooked. You inspired me to make homemade sushi. I know you would've been so proud!

Diana :)
January 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
Happy Birthday, Zachary. Thinking of your bright smile.
January 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
HI Zach , happy birthday today. I'm thinking of you because we have our birthdays next to each other. I do love you for always . You are my butterfly and we are together as boyfriend and girlfriend moments . Love,
Sofia
August 23, 2020
August 23, 2020
Our memories of Zach are about his love and enthusiasm.
How much he loved going off with his Friendship Circle buddy, how much he enjoyed all the activities and how he lingered behind to savor the last moment, making Rita always waiting for him to say his goodbyes.
We remember his love for basketball and how much he got into the games at the Kids With Dreams matches. Our last memory of him is on the court, focused on the game, eyes on the ball.
With much love ❤️
Lea and Steven
August 19, 2020
August 19, 2020
Zach truly had one of the kindest souls. He never failed to bring a smile to my face or brighten my days. I always looked forward to hearing about his day and bonding over our interests. He was and will forever be one of the most kind hearted, positive and optimistic individuals I have ever met. I am beyond grateful that I was able to meet Zach and become one of his friends. He truly deserves the best. He will be missed dearly.
August 14, 2020
August 14, 2020
Zach played soccer with us on the Green Giants for as long as I've coached the team, and the thought that he won't be joining us again is truly heartbreaking. I always appreciated his enthusiasm, engaging personality and team spirit. I expect I will think of him every time a train goes by during practice. Thank you for your energy and warmth, Zach.
August 13, 2020
August 13, 2020
I first remember Zach when he was the janitor in the play "Hair Gel". What a stage presence! He made us laugh, and brightened our lives. He was friendly to everyone.  At Dance for All and other settings Zach seemed to burst in and brighten the space with an eagerness to greet everyone and share his friendliness. We will miss him! Love to all his family who hold him in their hearts.
August 12, 2020
August 12, 2020
Zach, There is so much love and support going around in your honor. I feel you by my side, and I know you will help me, Ivanna and your Papa find our way. You truly made the world a better place, and your sweet spirit will live on forever. Love and miss you soo soo much, Mom
August 11, 2020
August 11, 2020
If ever there was a human who was contagiously affectionate - it was Zach!! Zach never forgot a face or a name! I met Zach first when he was in Pre K, and was simply amazed that he remembered me by name several years later!! We will miss his kind and endearing nature.
August 10, 2020
August 10, 2020
I met Zach for the first time at Camp Altitude in summer 2018. It was my first day at Camp Altitude and at first I felt a little shy because I didn’t know a whole lot of people, but Zach was one of the first people to introduce himself to me. From that day forward, we formed a special friendship. We exchanged phone numbers so we could text each other and ask each other how our weekends went and when we went on the Camp Altitude Disneyland trip, he helped me get over my fear of going on the Guardians of the Galaxy ride. Zach is the kind of person who would make you feel welcome anywhere you go and he never failed to bring a smile to your face. My thoughts go out to his family at this very difficult time. My deepest condolences

From Hannah
August 10, 2020
August 10, 2020
We saw Zach many times at Kids with Dreams events. Although we did not know him well, we did know that we could always expect to see him smiling and greeting friends. He was always energetically participating in whatever activities were on-hand. I would tell my son, look at Zach and see how he's happy to participate? Although our interactions were not many, we knew him to be a generous, kind person who lived fully and clearly loved and was loved by many. 
August 9, 2020
August 9, 2020
Zachary was a friendly burst of energy at so many of the events and activities that our families enjoyed. Whether at Friendship Circle, Kids With Dreams, or Dance for All, Zach was always ready to reach out to others, introducing himself and making new friends. Our whole community will miss you tremendously, Zach. Your light shines on in each and every person who you have touched with your kindness and friendship.
August 9, 2020
August 9, 2020
Zachary was one of the friendliest people I met in my entire life. He was always asking me how I was and if I was doing OK. He was always there for people as a friend and would come to the Friendship circle councillors to always see how we were doing. He taught us that Friendship circle really is a circle. We were supposed to offer friendship to him but it was he who offered so much of it to us. Even though I now live in Israel and am in the IDF he made sure to always keep in touch with text messages. He'd always send photos too and share with me what he was doing. As a lone soldier I appreciated his messages so much. I'm going to miss him so much.

From Nathan Links (camp volunteer (2017-2018)
August 9, 2020
August 9, 2020
I met Zachary 3 years ago at winter camp and have developed a friendship with him ever since. We spent two winter camps together and although I now live in Connecticut Zachary has kept in touch with me regularly. My best memories of him are that he always wanted to play games or do anything with me at winter camp. He was always the first one to ask how my day was at camp and always had an infectious smile on his face.
Zachary was the most caring person I have ever met. On my birthday he was the first to text me and ask what I was doing. Every time we spoke, my day got better. When I moved to the East Coast he was upset and so was I, but we kept in touch and he regularly sent me pictures and told me what he was doing. I am going to miss my friend Zachary so much

Oren Links (Winter Camp 2017/2018)
August 9, 2020
August 9, 2020
Zach- I already miss your smile and love for everyone around you. Your ability to make everyone happy will never be forgotten.  You were the perfect Spartan Buddy and a role model for all students at Mountain View High School. I will never forget your positivity and love for everyone.  I will miss you and know that you were a bright light in our lives.
August 9, 2020
August 9, 2020
I will always remember Zach as an incredibly outgoing, thoughtful, and lively person. When I first met him at Sunday Circle, he immediately made me feel as though we had known each other for years, and we jumped right into friendly conversations. I never saw him without a smile, and he never failed to put a smile on others' faces. As I read back through my text exchanges with him, he was always interested in how I was doing, and openly responded with what he was feeling as well. I am so sorry for your loss, he will truly be missed.
August 8, 2020
August 8, 2020
We can not imagine the pain and the emptiness you are feeling now, and we want to let you know that we are thinking of you and praying too. We met Zach once and he made us feel like we had been friends forever. His love for people was contagious. We are grateful and blessed our paths crossed, and someday will cross again. Rest in Peace now sweet angel.
Michael, Mark and Chelly  
August 8, 2020
August 8, 2020
Zack is a good friend and a good actor in ydfa. We will carry the memory of him and he is a good older brother to Ivana. he will be miss a lot and he is a good friend to me and my condolences to his Mom and sister and dad on this hard loss. He will be very miss all.
August 8, 2020
August 8, 2020
I met Zach at the Friendship circle. I was nervous on my first day since I didn't know what to expect. Zach was the cool kid everyone wanted to be around. When you walk into Friendship circle you are drawn in by his lively presence. He knew everyone, it was incredible. He walked up to me, eager to know my name, and introduced me to the other volunteers. He made me feel so welcomed and sparked my passion for the Friendship circle. Zach was such a good person, with a beautiful, and curious heart and soul. He was always eager to learn more, to meet people, and was truly happy. Once I graduated, He would always reach out to see how I was doing, and never failed to send me a happy birthday text. He cared about everyone in his life and he is a great example to the world that your heart is never too big. Rest in Peace, my friend, and a true friendship circle leader.
August 8, 2020
August 8, 2020
Sunshine. Zach was truly a sunshine. Every room he entered shined so bright with his presence. He brought light, warmth, and comfort to every place he went. His compassion for people and the love he shows are just one of the many reasons to Love Zach. Working at the Y can be tough at times, but when Zach comes in making a grand entrance, being so happy and excited to come to the Y, he brings joy to the environment. You forget about the struggles and just smile. Zach’s smile is so so contagious, he will always be in my heart. When I look at the sun I truly see Zach because of the warmth and joy he brings to those around him. Rest In Peace Zachary☀️❤️
August 8, 2020
August 8, 2020
Zachary always big smile to everybody. He always 'Hi' to me in YDFA.  I want to give to him big hug. I miss him a lot.  Rest In Peace Zachary.
August 7, 2020
August 7, 2020
Dear Zachary,
You and I had a friendship. You, my friends, and I were grouping together to have activities at many houses of our friends. We had rehearsals and lessons in YDFA and DFA. I met you and came to you at your house for less than twenty years ago. You and I went to learn subjects in the preschool and many grades at many schools. We went to the activities at The Friendship Circle several times. We went for a walk, a movie theater, and a restaurant many times. I requested you on my Facebook almost six years ago. I liked your posts about cooking and making foods. You invited me to the party several times. We never forget you to hug and high five. We are missing you. RIP

Your best friend,
Leo Baykin
August 7, 2020
August 7, 2020
The way I have always described Zach is a ray of sunshine. I never saw him without a smile on his face, and he always brightened my day with a story or a joke to tell. He welcomed each new addition to Friendship Circle with open arms, and was always a friendly face to look for. Zach had one of the kindest, most genuine hearts I have ever encountered. He saw the good in everyone and everything, and he will be missed dearly.
August 7, 2020
August 7, 2020
Dear Zach,
We have loved you for so many years and we love you a thousand more. You make me wish upon a star. I remember when we used to hang out at bowling and going to dances. You were always happy and by my side. I always had you beside me and now I lost you so I have to have you in my heart. You were one of the most awesome, kind and protective friends I had in my whole life. You would always tell me, “It’s going to be okay, Alec.” when I was having a hard time last year. You were always close to me. You gave me the best hugs ever and told me funny jokes! I loved it when we asked my mom to do funny impressions of Bear and the Big Blue House. Remember when we went to Friendship Circle Camp and we met Ben, Gal and Hila? Now that you are in heaven, I hope that your life is filled with baked goods and lots of trains and lots of amor. I hope you see your Grandpa up there and speak Spanish. I will think of you as my lucky star.
Your Friend,
Alec Island
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
I miss you Zach,
we still have each other’s back.
You make me laugh, making jokes about Teletubbies and Sesame Street.
Walk home together with the heat.
Walking to class and say “hey”.
Everyday, day by day.

From Dani
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
I've had the pleasure of first meeting Zachary when he was just 2 years old and he was in sessions with our daughter Katelyn. Over the years I got to witness his transformation into this amazing social growingly independent young man with multiple interests including a curiosity and gift for cooking and baking. I was impressed by his Facebook photos of his creations and told him I looked forward to trying out his culinary skills after the pandemic. He promised me he'd cook for me.

He was happy to have my text info and would express his gratefulness for small gestures like giving him a ride. He never missed sending me text greetings for mother's day or my birthday. I'm so glad that he and Katelyn continued their friendship into young adulthood as they journeyed together through their school years.

Always a kind, friendly, generous soul, I will miss seeing his exuberance in Dance for All and YDFA. He was always there with a smile, high five, and a hug. His presence lit up any room he entered. 

Let's remember him with that wide infectious smile and loving spirit. To his dear parents who did an amazing job supporting and advocating for him, and to Ivana for being a wonderful sister, I hope that time heals and lessens your pain but know that grief is the final act of love. 
My deep condolences for your loss.
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
We feel so fortunate to have known Zachary. He was always so kind and thoughtful and told the funniest jokes. He was always smiling and sincere. Such a great person, so full of life and so caring. He was the best. We will all miss him dearly.
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
My son Colin & I first met Zachary only two years ago. It did not take long to realize what a true gem of a person he was; spreading infectious sparkle wherever he went, always ready to make new friends!
Please accept our deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear Zackary. What a wonderful soul & gift he was to us all.
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
Dearest Zachary,
I was so sad to learn the news of the premature extinguishing of a very bright light at our Adult School. Your warm smile and kind greeting in the hallways really brightened my days as an administrator of the school. 
You will be greatly missed, and I will be so sad not being able to see your warm face in our hallways again. Please rest in peace dear Zachary. I feel better to have known such a bright, loving soul. You have definitely made an impact on my life, as well as on the lives of others who have been blessed to have known you. I know you are in heaven now and hope that brings peace and comfort to your parents and family.
Sending my love and prayers <3
Miss Julie
August 6, 2020
August 6, 2020
The thought of you, Zach, will always bring a smile to my face. I will always treasure the time I spent as your helper and friend at school. Your smile, kindness, determination and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. I’m finding it hard to accept that you are not here now. Heaven gained a sweet young man and I’m sure everyone is eating good with your strong chef skills. Rest In Peace my dear Zach.
August 5, 2020
August 5, 2020
I remember Zach as being one of the first buddies to welcome me to Friendship Circle! I was just about to start at Mountain View and seeing how much he enjoyed Spartan Buddies made me excited to join the club. He always greeted every single volunteer at the beginning of each session and texted us to check in as well. I especially admired seeing him and Justin tell jokes and laugh together because they had such a beautiful friendship. Zach was such an integral part of Friendship Circle and I will miss him so much.
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Chicken Chicken!

January 2
Happy 25th Birthday Zachary!! According to Rita, Zachary's favorite place to eat when he was 3 was Chicken Chicken in Burlingame.  They had Carribean-style jerk chicken that he loved.  When it closed down, Rita and Zach spoke often about their dream to go to the Cayman Islands where they had another location.

Thank you Zach for bringing us to the Grand Cayman location just five days ago! It was fun to celebrate your early birthday by eating this delicious food WITH you! We even saw a chicken outside the restaurant! I know you played a joke on me the night before telling me that I *had* to go there.  Somehow magically the bus dropped us right off at this location.  I know it was your enthusiasm!! 

Zachary, may your vibrant presence and memory continue to bring joy to ALL who know you.  Thank you for sharing your light with us! Much love, Andrea and Isabella
August 3, 2023
From my hike on top of a mountain I am sending you my love - Zach - with the clouds going up to heaven 

Happy birthday Zach

January 2, 2023
You are present in our lives every day, your songs, your favorite color, your favorite character, your smile and your greeting!
SOFIA and I (Francesca)are so grateful to have you as part of our lives 

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