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ZACHARY WELLS Obituary

ZACHARY JAMES WELLS KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine - We lost our beautiful son, brother, nephew, grandson and friend Zach in the early hours of Dec. 20, 2012, to the pristine waters off the coast of Maine. Zach was born on March 14, 1991, in Burlington, to Stephanie and James Wells. From the moment of his birth, Zachary made his presence known. He was a force to be reckoned with, a bright light whose laughter and love were extinguished all too early. The gigantic space that Zach filled is now a void left to be furnished by the multitude of memories held by those who knew and loved him. Zach cultivated relationships and his many friends were of great importance to him. He loved an adventure and cherished the memories of the varied expeditions, road trips, and outings he shared with a variety of friends, all while eagerly awaiting and planning the next big trip. In the limited years he was with us, Zach accomplished much. A 2009 graduate of Champlain Valley Union High School, he flew a plane at 16, went skydiving at 18, and sailed on a tall ship to ports around the world. He drove solo across the country, checking in with his friends scattered along the way. He was fortunate to visit several different countries around the globe by land and by sea, and had an insatiable desire to learn about other cultures and connect with people from all walks of life. Zach's creative eye captured images from his travels and we are lucky to have a collection of his photographs that bear witness to his experiences. He became a certified scuba diver and looked forward to continuing his need to explore in a new venue. In his early years, he was a swimmer, biker, soccer and lacrosse player, but his enduring sport was snowboarding. While he had wanderlust, he was always happy to come home to family and the hills of Vermont. Zach faced a significant medical issue at the age of 16, and despite the inevitable fear, Zachary demonstrated courage, strength and grace while managing the problem. The extent of love shown to Zach during this time forever changed him and brought clarity to what is important. Perhaps because of his health trials, Zach showed remarkable compassion and no hesitancy toward helping those who struggled. Whatever the need, Zach seemed happiest when he could lend a hand. Zach's passion for the water recently brought him to The Landing School in Maine, where he was very happy to continue to expand his knowledge of all things maritime. His hope was to continue his exploration on the water around the world. Zach has an extended and loving family and he valued time spent with them. He was beloved by his parents, Stephanie and Jim, his sister, Alexandra, and brother, Nathaniel, all of whom will miss him so very dearly. He is a much loved grandson of Milton and Joan Victor of Saco, Maine, and Janet Wells of South Burlington. He was recently predeceased by his grandfather, Robert Wells. Reunions are a constant in our family and Zach cherished the time spent with cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. He is survived by David, Lolly, Zoe, Calista and Helena Victor of Seattle, Wash.; Peter, Mimi, Luc and Eliott Victor of Ellsworth, Maine; Cristine, Rob, Ryan and Katie Reynolds of Albany, N.Y.; Mike, Olga, Mae, Nolan, and Wesley Moriarty of Lincoln; and Joan and Tom Hughes of Branford, Conn. Above all else, Zach was about unconditional love. He taught it, accepted it, offered it, and we ask that you keep him alive in your hearts. A celebration of Zach's life will be held at the Charlotte Congregational Church at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013. A reception will immediately follow at the Old Lantern in Charlotte. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a fund which is being established in Zach's name. Contributions may be made to the Zachary James Wells Fund, c/o Jeffrey Small, CPA, 72 Pine St., Burlington, VT 05401.

Published by The Burlington Free Press on Jan. 3, 2013.
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Dear Wells family, I didn't know Zach and I don't know your family. But I feel linked to you now. First, my sincere condolences for your loss. From what I've read, Zach was a special young man. My prayer for your continued healing is being sent now and always.

Yesterday, 11/11/18, I found a card in the Newark airport. It was a thank you card of sorts with a quote and a poem and a message to loved ones from you family. And there is a handwritten note from from you to a woman named "Amy". This treasure is tattered and worn and even taped back together. Clearly, it is a beloved remembrance that Amy carried with her on her travels. I want to find Amy and return this to her. Can you help me find her?

Casey McClurkin

November 12, 2018

I remember Zach as a young man always looking for life's next adventure. He was loved by those that knew him. He will always be remembered by that big smile and kind gentle nature. To my daughter Lily, he was a friend and crew mate on the SV Concordia, sharing so many memories. I met Zach in Malta and will never forget the impression of meeting a true blithe spirit. When the ship was lost at sea, Zach was the first of Lily's friends to call me and share heart-felt emotions of concern. He remained a caring friend. We may say farewell fellow traveler, but you will always find a safe harbor in our hearts.

Michael Kline

January 23, 2013

The Wells and Victor Family are in our prayers. Zachary will be remembered for the joy he brought to his family. I know it's difficult at this time but God gives us the strength to endure the time until you are together again.
Much love, Angela and Francis Lombardi

Angela & Francis Lombardi

January 11, 2013

Our heart goes out to you and your family. You are forever in our prayers.

Scott Primiano

January 6, 2013

Steph and Jim,
Bev Willsey spoke to me today after church and told me about Zach. I feel such a heavy heart for you and Alex and Nathaniel. I cannot imagine what it must feel like to lose a son. We lost our young nephew 2 years ago and the grief is so difficult. I only hope he will come to you in your dreams as my loved ones have come to me. It has been very reassuring. It sounds like he was well loved and a light to many. May you find small moments of light and joy through the support of your family and friends in the coming weeks and months.
Love, Linda Dufford Jewett

January 6, 2013

Our family is greatly saddened to read this news. Our hearts are with you. Dru, Alana, Piper & JP

January 6, 2013

We are so saddened and sorry to hear about Zach. We have been praying for your family every day since we heard of Zach missing. We remember Zach from our days in Charlotte and always admired the love and closeness of your family. We send you love and strength at this very difficult time.

The Jenson Family

January 5, 2013

Jim, Strphanie, Allie and Nathanial,
Zake touched so many people and his memorial was a beautiful tribute to a very special old soul.

Bill, Karen and Colin

Karen Doris

January 5, 2013

Sincere sympathy.

A Friend

January 5, 2013

We are so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers your way. May memories of Zach help you during this difficult time.

Karan,Eric & Brianna Champney

Karan Champney

January 5, 2013

Zach was my guitar student and it was obvious from the first lesson that this was a young man who knew what he wanted and how to get there! His easy and bright smile, I will always remember, which would light up a room. Zach and I also shared our love for the water and boats. I used to be a sail-maker and I also traveled around the world on a boat. We would dream of the far away places, but always agreed that Vermont was the best place in the world. My 26 yr.old son is also named Zachary, and Zach and I would laugh because he knew how much I loved to say his name and how easy it was for me to remember! May we all live life as Zach did. My heart felt grief and sorrow goes to his family and friends. We were all blessed to have known such an amazing young man. May peace be with you during this time of sadness.

Sallie Mack

January 5, 2013

I am so fortunate to have met Zachary in my short time in Burlington. He was such an amazing friend and such an adventurous soul. I am so deeply sorry for your loss, and all of ours. I have learned from all of Zach's stories and endeavors to live life to the fullest.

Caitlin M

January 4, 2013

I've been blessed to work with so many wonderful young people in my life, but Zach was a standout. Please know he'll always hold a special place in my heart and accept my deepest sympathy.

Bob DeColfmacker

January 4, 2013

We are so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. May your wonderful memories of Zach sustain you during this difficult time.

Bob & Deb Gurwicz

January 4, 2013

My son is a second year student at The Landing School and knew Zach. Our family followed closely the daily updates since Zach went missing. Our hearts are heavy and we are so sorry for your loss.

Caroline Geishecker

January 4, 2013

I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember Zach from his Charlotte Central days and I know we have lost a very special young man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sheila Fazackerley

January 4, 2013

Shipmate..."Godspeed, Fair Winds and Following Seas"

Robert Brill Jr. USCG (Ret)

January 4, 2013

wonderful obituary. i only wish it did not have to be written. my heart is so so so sad. my love and thoughts are with all family and friends. i will miss zachary. what a rich life. what a great loss. xo xo katherine

katherine arthaud

January 4, 2013

Zach, You were a true friend to my daughter , Courtney on the SV Concordia. I felt reassured knowing her watch was supporting her and you were a large part of that. I was fortuate to meet you on one of your trips to Ontario and enjoyed our talks. My sympathy overflows to your family, I trust they take comfort knowing that you did what ever was in your heart, a truly brave and commendable way to live!

Isla Viscount

January 4, 2013

This is so tragic, it goes far beyond breaking heart. I am so sorry for your loss.

Tim Crowley

January 4, 2013

Jeff

January 4, 2013

My heartfelt condolences to your family.

Heather Fitzpatrick

January 4, 2013

Zach donated his time and went skiing with a group of students I work with at CVU High School. His compassion for the students was always there. His demeanor with the students was a joy to watch. The students in the class used to argue over who would get to hang out with Zach on the mountain. I had to schedule time for each student with Zach so each student felt good. A touch of light for these students......My sympathy goes to the family. A truly nice young man.

Gary Jedinak

January 4, 2013

A bright light extinguished too early indeed. My heart goes out to all of Zach's family during a very sad time. Peace and love.

Joyce Basilone

January 3, 2013

Words can't express what a great soul we have lost. Zach was a very special person, so true and dedicated to himself and others. I feel so lucky to have had him in my life. My heart goes out to you, Stephanie and Jim. You did a great job.
Dina
S/V Concordia

January 3, 2013

The love of his family and friends will keep him forever in our hearts. My thoughts are with you. I am so very sorry for your loss.

Keilani

January 3, 2013

We felt so honored to have Zachary and his father spend time in our spiritual garden in Branford, CT. My heart goes out to his parents as we, too know the depth of grief and sorrow that comes with loosing a beautiful son. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
JoAnn and Richard Everson

JoAnn Everson

January 3, 2013

We all had the pleasure of meeting Zach when he came to the Landing Store. I made him breakfast at least 3 times a week and he was always so happy when I remembered what he wanted without him having to say.
He was always so polite and always had a big smile on his face.
I'm so sorry for your loss but I'm also sorry for the world for not having such a great person around to brighten everyday

Cheryl Killian

January 3, 2013

We are so sorry for your loss. We so enjoyed meeting Zach and your family in Malta. Our deepest sympathy and our thoughts are with you. Dianne & Martin Wood (Natasha's parents)

Dianne Carruthers Wood

January 3, 2013

Hey beautiful family. I'm sorry....so sorry.
I can see him leaning back in my kitchen chair, smiling this huge smile. I am holding on to this.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Bridget Nardiello

January 3, 2013

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I was fortunate to get to know Zach while teaching on SV Concordia. He, along with you, his family, will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Kate Braedley

January 3, 2013

We at CVU who remember Zach fondly are stunned and saddened. Please know that we are thinking of the family at this time and for long after. God Bless.

Andre LaChance and many others...

Andre LaChance

January 3, 2013

We are so very sorry for your loss. Our son is in Zach's program at The Landing School, and we have been following this closely. We have all been praying for a better outcome, and our hearts are broken as well. Please know that we are thinking of you all and sharing in your pain.

Winn and Jill Carroll

January 3, 2013

and so we wave farewell as you sail away,
knowing that in our hearts you will never be truly gone. thank you for sharing your light with us,
for your sparkly eyes and earnest enthusiasm.
our hearts will ache though you wouldn't wish it to be so.
Go peacefully on, knowing that your affection was clear and your love and friendship was a gift you offered generously.
So long, sweet boy.

January 3, 2013

I met you Stephanie when you came to our door
on Langsford Rd. with your friend. Speaking briefly with you, listening to a low flying plane
and now reading about what a great guy you have lost has been difficult for a stranger, My thoughts are with you and your family forever. Sarah Pinkerton, Cape Porpoise, ME

January 3, 2013

Zach brought a great light into this world. He certainly taught me to be more adventurous, light hearted and kind. What an amazing boy!

January 3, 2013

Our hearts and prayers go out to you for the loss of your son.God gave him to you, even though it was for a short time.Now he wanted this special young man home with Him again.Zachary's loving tender ways to his family and friends will go on forever.He is with God now but one day you will hear something or see something that reminds you of him and will be so proud of him over and over again.We will be praying for your family and because of who and what he was,you will have peace through him and with him.

Carol and Harry Hutchins

January 3, 2013

Please know that we are thinking about all of you every day, and that we love you so much, sending our love to you all, Sincerely Mary, Doc and jess

January 3, 2013

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU DURING THIS SAD TIME.

JIM & DARLENE

January 3, 2013

Please except my deepest sypathy and my prayers for your family through this hard time. My son knew Zachary through the Landing School and has many wonderful things to say about him. He will always be missed and loved by our son. My prayers are with you all..

Jennifer Schaefer

January 3, 2013

Jim and Stephanie,
No words can describe my shock at hearing of this tragedy! Zach was a GREAT young man, with a winning smile and personality...I'll always remember him for that. My thoughts and prayers are with you Alex and Nathaniel.
Shep

Dan Shepardson

January 3, 2013

Jim and Steph, I was concerned when I first heard the story on WCAX news that Zach was missing. Now I am greatly appreciative to have known Zach even a little bit in his earlier life. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and the family. With much sorrow, George.

George McDonald

January 3, 2013

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