Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Zachi Telesha Obituary
Zachi Telesha died April 29 at his Allentown home after a five-year struggle with bone cancer, according to The Express-Times of Easton. His death was confirmed by the Allentown School District and the Allentown mayor's office.
In the midst of his illness, Zachi dreamed up a crime-fighting team called Hero Inc. With help from his school and employees at publisher Rodale Inc., Zachi published a 32-page comic book called "Hero Up!" last year. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to a nonprofit, Angel 34, that supports pediatric cancer patients. The book is available for sale on the group's website.
The sixth-grader said in an interview a few weeks before his death that regular people can do a little every day to make the world a better place - the theme of his comic book.
Zachi's parents and principal called him resilient and inspirational.
"I'm a true believer there are angels that walk among us to make our lives better and Zachi was one of them," said Richard Kern, principal at McKinley Elementary School, calling Zachi an ideal student.
"He wanted to be here. He wanted to learn. He wanted to be a scientist. He was going to find a cure for cancer," Kern said. "He was an inspiration to me. He was an inspiration to the teachers in this building."
Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski said he wants to create a "Hero Up!" day of service and recognition of volunteerism in the city.
"He was just an amazing kid," Pawlowski said. "It would be a fitting tribute to Zachi."
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
225 Entries
Denise Osley
August 18, 2021
I never had chance to meet my nephew Zachi face to face but I was able to talk to him by phone calls and he always seem to be in high Spitits. I love you young man and keep living ur best life in Heaven.
Luis Sabastro
December 16, 2019
Rip i go to trexler now i see your book and posters everywhere even mr anoni dressed up as the super hero from your book! Again RIP
Victor
May 20, 2013
To Zachi's family may your fond memories bring you comfort. God will undo your pain. Luke 7:11-17
How you can show support
May 20, 2013
To the family,so sorry for your loss.Let the hand of God ALMIGHTY be with you.He has said I-I myself am the One that is comforting you people.isah.51:12....gq
MARJORIE HARRIS
May 13, 2013
When a child dies, it is particularly hard for the mother. Thus the Bible acknowledges the bitter grief that a mother can feel. (2 Kings 4:27) Of course, it is difficult for the bereaved father as well. “O that I might have died, I myself, instead of you,” lamented King David when his son Absalom died.—2 Samuel 18:33.
Linda
May 13, 2013
May God's gentle peace fill your heart and comfort your soul today and
in the days to come, I am so very sorry for your loss. As you cherish
fond memories also know that God is with you and will provide peace
and hope in the days ahead.
The Johnson
May 13, 2013
Prayers for this family's tragic loss. I'm so sorry you all are having to experience the death of your child. From reading his story, he was an amazing young man. He is to suffer no more. I hope and pray for comfort knowing he is with the Lord and knows no sorrow.
Mimi R
May 12, 2013
Too the Telesha Family. Wow all those Comic Books! Too bad it had too end with sadness in there Hearts! I know the pain. My Prayers always.
Darius Cox
May 12, 2013
I don't know you but may you rest in peace
Tracey M
May 11, 2013
I don't know him or your family but I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. God needed another angel he called your son home. May he rest in eternal peace. May god be with you all today tomorrow and always. God bless
Denise connolly
May 11, 2013
may god wrap his arms around zachi and show him the light and eternal peace
May 11, 2013
RIP
Steven Kessler
May 11, 2013
God Bless. Great loss.
Cheryl
May 11, 2013
May God bless and comfort you. Hero Up! Day sounds great!
Cheryl
May 11, 2013
May the inspiration be his legacy. Not his short time with you. May God bless and comfort you.
tasha minnicks
May 11, 2013
I dont no you all but his story touch me n hope this candle keeps burning forever n your hearts for him may god bless your family
Melissia Talton
May 11, 2013
God Bless...Zachi made me to realize that if I just do a little bit each day I can make this world a better place...I will remember him daily as Im doing my daily tasks...God Bless
May 11, 2013
May the love of God, friends and family carry you through your grief.
sharon spruill
May 11, 2013
Thank God for special angels like zachi and i am praying for you family
Sandra Rogers
May 10, 2013
I know you love Zachi but God loves him more that's why he took him home to be with him. I pray you will find comfort in knowing he is in the arms of the Lord!
michelle littlemamainga6
May 10, 2013
i am praying for you during your time of your loss
Miss Remy
May 10, 2013
R.I.P Zachi GOD has a special place for you say hi to Jahmir for me that's my twelve year old who GOD needed in heaven in 09..
Steph Tharp
May 10, 2013
What a blessing. How honored you as his parents must be to have had such a couragous son. Blessings to you for comfort.
Iesha Bowles
May 9, 2013
Sorry for your lost may God be with you and your family, your family is in my prayers may gne bless you.
Derrick&Jennifer Smith
May 9, 2013
Rest in paradise beautiful child.
Strengh goes out to the family.
May 9, 2013
SWEET SLEEP LITTLE MAN! SWEET SLEEP!
PRAYERS AND COMFORT TO THE FAMILY.
May 9, 2013
REST IN HEAVENLY PEACE.
Brenda Crittenden
May 9, 2013
Never to hurt again. So sorry for the Family.
Sylvia Lewis
May 9, 2013
So young, but no more pain nor suffering,rip my precious son,,god only takes the best, sincere condolences for the family,
Sabrina Stametz
May 9, 2013
Wow...I watched ur videos Zachi....u r truly an insperation to everyone....the memory u have made on this earth in ur small time is AMAZING! !!!! U WILL ALWAYS B REMEMBERED!!!! Keep ur family stong n let them know ur ok n happier now...no more pain n hospital visits not even to see ur favorite nurses.....watch over them....RIP ZACHI. ...... HERO UP!!!!!
Robert Colquitt
May 9, 2013
I send my deepest condolences to the family.
lisa jarrell
May 9, 2013
another angel got his wing today. God Bless him
Lark Fall
May 9, 2013
He is enjoying self propelled flight with God now for he has achieved angel status.
May 9, 2013
May the God of peace be with the family during this time of sorrow.
Richie & Donna DAmelio
May 9, 2013
Yes Zachi there are angels and you are one of them god now has you.
Cassandra Williamson
May 9, 2013
I didn't know him but my heart goes out to his family!!!!!
Shirley Gordon
May 9, 2013
Another angel got his wings...God bless you all!
May 9, 2013
Losing a loved one is difficult especially when it is a young child. Remember our Heavenly Father tells us through the scriptures that he loves children and will keep Zachi in his memory. Zachi is at peace in the memory of his Heavenly Father.
May 9, 2013
So young so brave so soon to be taken.
Sincere condolences to the family
A friend
May 9, 2013
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU IN HIS LOVING ARMS!! RIP
liz
May 9, 2013
I am so sorry about zachi. such young and tender age. please accept my condolences. please find peace and comfort in knowing that there is a loving God who cares and there to help you in this most difficult time.
thelma briggs
May 9, 2013
Truly an inspiration to many. Will definitely purchase one of his comic books. May God comfort your hearts.
Ms, Alexander
May 9, 2013
To the Telesha family, I am truly sorry for the lost of your love,
BETTY JEAN
May 9, 2013
IT'S ASTONISHING BUT TRUE HOW SOMEONE CAN COME IN AND OUT OF OUR LIVES SO QUICKLY AND YET LEAVE FOOTPRINTS AND
BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES IN OUR HEARTS
FOREVER. MAY THE MEMORIES AND SMILES
YOUR FAMILY SHARED WITH ZACHI HELP TO
CUSHION YOUR GRIEF. WITH DEEPEST
SYMPATHY.
Kelly
May 9, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Phil. 4:6, 7
May 9, 2013
May the peace of God be with you.
May 9, 2013
I lost my son to cancer, he was 11 years old. I know its so, so so, hard to have lost him. I will pray for you and may god bring peace to you at this time and always.
Diane Myers Florence, SC
Kenyotta Elijah
May 9, 2013
I am almost amazed sometimes at how people with so little time on this Earth manage to do so much. This is one of those times.
Although there is very little that any of us can say that will comfort you during this difficult time, I want you to know that we are praying for you. We pray that your family finds comfort in the amount of hope and love that Zachi bought to this world in such a short time. His love was a rare gift in today's time and I am extremely thankful that you allowed us to share him with you. May God bless your family with the peace that passes all understanding. May you find comfort in knowing that Zachi is no longer in pain and that his absence here only means that he is present with the Lord. God bless you.
Jae
May 8, 2013
In his face, I see an angel and a super hero who changed and inspired many. To Zachi's family, like so many I too pray for your comfort.
Christina Roberson
May 8, 2013
God bless this beautiful chid rest in peace
Cheryl
May 8, 2013
I am so very sorry for your lost. Zachi no longer has to suffer. May the many cherished memories of him bring comfort to you.
May 8, 2013
May the bereaved family of Zachi, be comforted by continuing to reflect on the many wonderful memories you enjoyed together. Also our loving Heavenly Father has promised to bring a end to all sicknesses, pains and sufferings that sometimes ends in death. Please accept my sincere condolences.
May 8, 2013
This bought tears to my eyes. Sweet child who wanted to make a difference and he did. May he be at peace. Pam(Tyler,Tx)
lupe vargas
May 8, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss i lost a son with cancer at the age of 29 five years ago so i know how heart broken you feel but be strong for now you have an angel watching over you he will never be forgotten.God bless you.
M.H.G. Sr
May 8, 2013
To The Family,
Zachi is at peace. Think of the good times and smile. For comfort read Ecclesiastes 3:1-11,14,15,17,20,22. May God bring you peace during this time.
Clifton Hunter
May 8, 2013
Didn't know Zachi but he truly is a angel. May God be with the family in their loss. He's in heaven smiling.
pat ward
May 8, 2013
To the family aways remember that love is all around,now that this wonderful young man as become apart of that love he is always there,just reach out and touch him. He will hold you in his arms And always love you. May you find peace,love and joy in your life again.
rana franke
May 8, 2013
RIP sweet child, you definitely made your mark here on earth, now to make your mark in heaven
Robin
May 8, 2013
God Bless You Little Angel. Now you truly have wings that soar; with no more pain or suffering. Dear Lord, please keep this family in perfect peace as they grieve their loss.
Debbie Duke
May 8, 2013
What a remarkable young man! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
lashontae morris
May 8, 2013
I may not no how it feels to lose a child but lost my mother to cancer keep your head up and if u ever see something or smell something that he always. Loved or did his always there to let u no he always cared and he wants to thank you for everything you've done for him in his time of sickness and health. May God bless u and your family.
Nia
May 8, 2013
The death of a child is like a stone, cast into the stillness of a quiet pool ,the concentric ripples of despair sweep out in all directions, affecting many, many people.When one mother mourns ALL mothers mourn! God has you now sweet baby!
Fawn Field
May 8, 2013
Sorry to hear of your loss. I know you have the blessed hope you will see him again! Blessing on your family especially in this time of sorrow.
May 8, 2013
Sweet dreams little angel, there is so much more for you to do in heaven. Please watch over all of us and help us to be 1/2 as inspirational as you
May 8, 2013
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved son. May you find peace and comfort in Psalms 65:2.
Barry Campbell
May 8, 2013
A true hero. Rest in peace.
Jeanette Purvis
May 8, 2013
Rest in Peace sweet Angel.
Brenda L Johnson
May 8, 2013
To Family & Community of ZT
He was an earthly Angel sent by GOD. He has done more in his short 12 years than I down in my 70+life. Yes,! We all here to do something before this life passes. He filled his earthy journey and gave hope to others.
Blessing, peace and love to all.
a Father
May 8, 2013
(Matthew 19:14) Jesus, however, said: “Let the young children alone, and stop hindering them from coming to me, for the kingdom of the heavens belongs to suchlike ones.”
Jesus was saying he will bless children such as Zachi. However it dosent mean that he took him, due to sin and imperfection our young loved one has fallen asleep in rest, no more sufering, no more pain. Jesus to said this, he would ressurection such ones like Zachi Telesha, to the Telesha family please take comfort in that.
rosemary grant
May 8, 2013
May his soul rest in peace with the Lord.I lost my daughter 5 months ago and still feels the loss
G. Johnson
May 8, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
May 8, 2013
This is an angel that we were truly blessed to have walk among us.
d, a, and l hodges
May 8, 2013
Thats for the Memories....the hodges family
May 8, 2013
May this angel now RIP, my condolences to his family and friends.
L H9orton
May 8, 2013
To The Telesha Family:
Sorry to hear of the loss of your dear loved one.
Jill
May 8, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Zachi.. I am a young adult battling bone cancer right now. Now you have an angel in heaven.. god bless...
A Mother
May 8, 2013
May the God who gives peace be with all of YOU God is a refuge for us.
somewhere....
May 8, 2013
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”
? Hippocrates
christina keich
May 8, 2013
I will miss u alot u were a strong little. Boy suzy stay strong hold your head high he is in a better place he is wit my brother he passed the same day I love u and family
patricia lewis
May 8, 2013
God Bless this wonderful family God has added another Angel in Heaven.
Chaplain Judith Smith
May 8, 2013
My heart has been made GLAD and my spirit for VOLUNTEERING has been energized, by Zachi's determination, to live a productive life, to the point of his NEW BEGINNING.
E. A.
May 8, 2013
To Zachi's family and friends. During your time of grief, may you find comfort in Psalms 46:1. "God is our storehouse of strength. We come to him and find help in times of trouble."
Bobby Gordon
May 8, 2013
It's alright young man. Prayer for the family.
May 8, 2013
God bless young Zachi. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this most difficult time.
May 8, 2013
He was an inspiration to many. Rest in peace, Zachi. Take comfort in knowing you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Condolences to the family. Baltimore, MD
The Long Family
May 8, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 8, 2013
I never met you but you were truly an inspiration to all. Rest in Peace little one.
GB in Colonie NY
michelle plakas-kaiser
May 8, 2013
rip
robin bawoll
May 8, 2013
God bless this child and his family
PAT BROWN
May 8, 2013
HERO UP!!!! YOU ARE NOW IN THE ARMS OF OF OUR LORD!!!! RIP MY YOUNG BROTHER!!! YU ARE MY HERO !!!!
May 8, 2013
My sincere condolence , What a wonderful person he had wonderful thoughts ,May the God of tender mercies ,comfort bring the family at this most grieves time
Terri & Mike Patillo
May 8, 2013
Heaven's newest angel and super-hero! God bless the family and friends of this amazing young man.
r lemon
May 8, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Showing 1 - 100 of 225 results
Make a Donation
in Zachi Telesha's name
How to support Zachi's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Zachi Telesha's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored