We’ve know Zeek since his birthday. Always treasured him since we share the same birthday. He’s a year younger than my daughter,  Samara, so they were buddies. She played basketball ball and Zeek ran track so of course the kids were good friends. I remember getting “updates” from Dijon on Zeek’s track accomplishments after Sunday Services. We loved hearing how Zeek was a beast in long distance running. D and I would chat about how well Zeek ran at the Junior Olympics (a few years), and I’d share about Samara’s balling skills. Zeek was a beautiful spirit, a true jokester that could light up any room. He was truly kindhearted. This is one kid you could rely on in a clutch. Although time and life slightly separated the bond Samara and Zeek shared, he came through for us in the end. On a short notice, he agreed to accompany Samara to her Senior Prom. On that same day, he had a track meet in Santa Maria and of course he was late to our Pre-Prom party because he had qualified for the finals in his heat!! But, he made it in time for food and a few pictures before heading to the prom. That’s admirable for any person,  but a teen who honored his Commitment speaks volumes.

When he decided to attend San Jose State, my family welcomed him with open arms. My dad would take him out to eat, call him, and bring him home for home-cooked meals. He was family. My dad and brothers were looking forward to attending his track meets and accomplishments 

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Bishop and Hodge Family