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Lizzy McEntee
December 8, 2005
Gentry Family-
I know this is very very late. But i was just looking at it tonight and i felt as if i should sign it. Not a day goes by that I dont think of zach.I went to 4 years of elementary/middle school with him and always hung out with the same people and talked but it wasnt until 7th or 8th grade when we got very close. and even in 9th and 10th grade, even though I didnt go to homestead, we still talked very often. and hung out once in a while. He was one of the few boys from summit i still had talked to. I remember when i would hang out with him justin and joey,it was just so clear that they are brothers. Zach was so amazing, funny, sweet, and caring. I just wanted to let you guys know you are in my prayers every night.
I recently lost another very good friend, jordan allen. And, i know for sure zach and jordan are up there together watching down on all of us. They were such similar souls, sweet, caring, never had anything bad to say about anyone. I cant wait till the day they open up the gates. Again, you guys will be in my prayers forever.
-Lizzy McEntee
Joey DeBolt
October 16, 2005
To my buddy Zach:
I miss you man so much. I pray everynight to you. I know that your always with Justin and me as we still are hanging around with eachother talking about you. Zach; Justin and I will never forget about you. You will always be with us untill the day we are all met up again. Sometimes I just look at the phone woundering if you're going to call me to hang out. There is not a day that goes by that I'm not thinking about you. Zach I miss you man... The other day I was thinking and thought that it was kind of strange that in our small addition where we all grew up together, that all 3 of us would be around the same age. I KNOW your in Heaven Zach. I can't wait till the day you, me and Justin all hang out again. I love you.
Your buddy and best friend,
Joey
Lauren Kelly
June 26, 2005
To the Gentry family, to friends of Zach, and to Joey (his "brother"): I do not know what to say exactly, since there is so much, so I will just see what comes to me while writing this. I know this is late, I'm not even sure if anyone, is still checking this. But just a few days ago I had a dream about Zach and felt like re-visiting this. Although it has been a few months, this all does not seem real to me. It just doesn't seem right. The memories I have of Zach are always of him and Joey on the bus, which is where I first met them both. Before I knew who Zach was I referred to him as "The polo model" (because thats what he looked like to me). I met Zach and Joey and from then on out I would never miss a ride home on the bus. After the bus trips were over, Zach and Joey were still in my thoughts. Now all trips are over except my memories, and more and more Zach is in my thoughts. He was such a great guy, simply amazing; I, in fact, cannot think of a fault. So to his family: You raised him very well, and you made him very happy since with Zach there was never a frown. Im so sorry for your loss. To Zach's friends: Live through your memories and remember you will see him again, be happy that you got the time that you had with him, because im sure it was great. To Joey: You are such a great person and though it seems like your other half is gone, you and I both know (since we have talked about this before) Zach will always be there for you, and if it gets hard remember I'm always here for you. Im so sorry for everyone's loss.
I love you Zach.
Lauren
Courtney Dekker
May 31, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
When I first heard the news about Zach I was in shock and just didn't understand. Zach and I were in 3rd and 4th grade together and that's where I first met him. He was always just a wonderful guy with a smile that I don't think anyone could forget. During this past year, Zach and I kind of lost touch and didn't talk much anymore. And when I moved to Georgia we didn't keep in touch, but I won't ever forget him. He's an amazing person who will be truly loved and missed forver. You're family is constantly in my prayers.
"From the beginning of creation, I think our maker had a plan; For us to leave these shores and sail beyond the sand. And let the good light guide us through the waves and the wind, to the beaches in a world where we have never been"
--Courtney Dekker
Katy Harris
May 8, 2005
Gentry family,
I'm so sorry I didn't write sooner. It's hard for me to believe this has happened to such incredible people. God sure does have mysterious ways. Just from taking Zach (and Joey) home from school, Zach made me want to be a better person. He was the most loving person I've ever met. I don't ever remember him having a bad day when I took him home. He's in my dreams almost every night, and even then, he smiles the biggest smile I've ever seen. I miss him every day and I'll always look for him around the corner. If Kate ever needs a ride home from school, I would love to take her home. If your family needs anything, I would love to help you out in any way.
Much love,
Katy
Joey DeBolt
April 24, 2005
My other family: The Gentry's,
I'v went to this guest book several times woundering what to write in it. Well, here goes. Its still had to except the fact that Zach is gone, but what helps me the most is when I get together with my friends and just laugh about all the fun memories we had with him. He was such a great guy, and I always felt protected around him, as if nothing could happen. Zach was always protecting me, I was like his little brother. Well, if you guys want some good and funny stories about zach, just ask.
Laura Walda
April 4, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
I wanted to say that I've been thinking of you all in this very sad time. Josh and Stephanie--I know we haven't seen each other in a long time, but I was always truly impressed and amazed by the devotion you had to your family and I know this must be so difficult. I'm sorry I wasn't able to meet your brother: I'm sure that if he took after his siblings, he must have been an amazing person. May you have some comfort in knowing that your friends and family are praying for you and thinking of you.
Take care,
Laura Walda
Former St. E's youth group member
Sarah Noll
April 2, 2005
Dear Susan and Family,
Not a day goes by that I do not pray for you and your family. I was so saddened to hear about your loss. May you lean on God during your tough times and think of Zachary walking with our Lord. I will continue to pray for all of you.
Stan & Sheila Rich
April 2, 2005
Dear John, Susan, and Family,
May God comfort you and give you strength and courage as you grieve the loss of your loving son and brother Zachary. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Jill Krieg
April 1, 2005
Josh
I’m so sorry for your loss. I wish I could say something more original, but traditional is all I can be right now. Josh, I am so impressed by your strength. If there is anything I can do for you, just let me know. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Maddie Shine
March 31, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss, Although I only knew Zach for a short time, he was such an incredible bright person, always praying to god. He always made my day in the car on the way home from school. He was also a very good friend of my brothers, and we both miss him so much. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Love,
Maddie
Suzy Conyers
March 31, 2005
Dear Gentry Family, I'm so saddened to hear about your familys loss. But also at this same time I feel such a comforting calmness from God that tells me His omniscient love is surrounding your family. I also feel from God that even though so many are saddened at this time for the loss of Zachary that He Himself, is elated to have him home. I did not know Zachary, I am a good friend of his cousin Erin, I can feel the impact that this has had on Erin, and she tells me how faithful the Gentry family is and how faithful Zachary was. I'm so impressed with your faithful family I can only say that this has impacted me and eventually my family also because of the faith and love your family share together, I too wish and pray to have a family like yours; so faithful and loving, How good is He who is blessing me and my family and so many others through your loss. If God has a dictionary, I know He would define the word "family" by descibing The Gentry's. I pray for God to give your family strength to endure, and I know that He will. Thank you for your faithfulness and may God always bless you. a friend in Christ, Suzy Conyers.
Susie Alvarado
March 30, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
Im so sorry for what has happend.. You all are in my prayers and my thoughts. God blessed you with an amazing child/brother and also everyone else with an amazing friend. I moved last year and me and zach started to loose touch and im so sorry i let that happen.. but i will always remember him as a great person who was so laid back and fun but who also knew when to be serious. Alot of my middle school memories have him in them and im so thankful that i got a chance to know him and how wonderful he was and to be able to talk and laugh with him. I know its so selfish to wish he had not left us.. but he is in such a better place now and and he knows just how much he is loved and missed... Zach you were truely amazing and one day i will see you again and what a wonderful day it will be! You are always in my thoughts and prayers...
Meg Patch
March 30, 2005
Gentry Family:
I knew Zach from Aboite and Summit. I moved to California after 6th grade, but I remember him from Mrs. Kirby's English class. He was a very nice guy and touched many people's lives. May he live on in your hearts.
Cristina Lopez
March 30, 2005
i did not know zach really well and only talked to him a few times. he was in my spanish class, but even from the little i knew him, i could tell he was a great guy. i will always admire him for sharing his faith with others and making such an impact on so many lifes. he will be missed by many and his death is a great loss to our school. i will keep your family in my prayers.
Tom Franks
March 30, 2005
I wanted to express my deepest prayers for your family. I will always remember him as a student who road my school bus and was a great boy. I feel for your loss and my prayers are with you.
Tom Franks
Linda Locke
March 30, 2005
Gentry Family, I lost a daughter, so I know exactly how you feel. The first thing my Dad said to me afterwards was, "Everything happens for a reason, and right now only God knows that reason, but someday you will understand too." That sustained me, and has for all these years. I am a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton church, and my daughter, Danielle was in the same grade as Zach, she sang in the choir today at his funeral. Please believe that you will get through this, someday you will smile again, and laugh about a memory of your son. I am so sorry for your loss.
Pam Sontz
March 30, 2005
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the Gentry family. As a friend of Josh, my support and thoughts are with you, and may the memory of Zach be kept and cherished forever.
Nathan Barlow
March 29, 2005
Dear Gentry Family. I am praying for you everyday. I didn't know Zach, but he rode my bus and he seem like a wonderful kid. You will continuelly be in my prayers. God Bless - Nathan
Emily Sery
March 29, 2005
I didn't get to know Zach very well, but he sounded very nice. My thoughts and prayers are with the Gentry family (especially Ally, who is my very best friend). Zach looked like a good boy to hang out with and I am sure that the Gentry family loved him so much. God bless Zach and keep him in God's arms at all times. I pray for Ally and her family and are very saddened for their loss.
Emily Sery
Lisa Richardson
March 29, 2005
John, Susan,and family, We were so devastated to hear about Zach. There is no greater tragedy than the loss of a child. Zach was a great kid, and will be sadly missed by all who knew him! Just take great pride in him and know hes in a better place. Although that probably is no comfort at the moment, time will help you to see it! God Bless, Lisa, Nick, Cameron, and Taylor Richardson
LeAnn Hanna-Laux
March 29, 2005
Dear John,Susan and family, I am so sorry to hear about your son. Your loss is too great for words and my heart and prayers go out to you. Take comfort in knowing that God won't let you go through this alone. He'll give you the courage to carry on and the strength to handle your pain...He'll be with you all the way. LeAnn Hanna Laux
Rita Rodriquez
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I never really knew Zack personally but he was good friends with many of my friends. I saw him in the halls all the time and had him in some classes before. He always seemed like a such nice person. I just can't believe this had to happen to such a wonderful person and at such a young age. I can't even exspress how sorry I feel for all of you. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
RUSS,JOHN, JULIE,MICHAEL WALL
March 28, 2005
DEAR GENTRY FAMILY, OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU. WE ALL MET ZACH A COUPLE OF SUMMERS AGO. WHEN HE AND RUSS PLAYED BASEBALL FOR THE ABOITE BRAVES. HE WAS A GREAT KID TO BE AROUND.I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIS WONDERFUL SMILE. MAY THE LORD BE WITH YOU AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME. YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
Ally Uhey
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentry Family:
I did not really know Zach all that well...he was a fellow class mate who sat in front of me 6th period english this semester...I did not really talk to him much, but I have heard a lot about how great he is. Keep in mind that Zach is now in God's hands and is being taken care of. You all are in my prayers.
Russell Wall
March 28, 2005
Gentry Family,
I was shocked and saddend when I heard the news of Zach... I only knew him for a year from playing baseball with him, but in that year, we became pretty close. Zach was one of the nicest, most caring, people I'd ever met, just a great kid to be around, he was always so nice to me, it was hard coming from a diferent town onto a team where I knew nobody, he made me feel at home. John was also always very nice to me. Words can't describe the sadness I feel for you all. We love you Zach, you'll be missed..
Lauren Wagner
March 28, 2005
To the Gentry Family-
I knew Zach from school. Although I did not know him well, he touched my heart. He was in my gym class this past year and he talked to me every day no matter what. He was a wonderful person and I will miss him along with many others. I know what pain this has caused you because I have lost loved ones also but don't lose faith in God for he is always with you! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Sincerely,
Lauren Wagner
John & Deanna Schleeter
March 28, 2005
Dear John, Susan and Family,
Our prayers have been with all of you through this terrible ordeal. You are a lovely family, and God will be with you always. Our Small Christian Community will always be there to listen and to give you support. Our hearts go out to all of you.
Blessings,
Deanna and John Schleeter
Jim Bretl
March 28, 2005
I am so sorry Sue. I typed the wrong name in this morning. I was trying to do to many things.
Mike Stahl
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentrys
I played soccer with zach and he was the life of the team every time i fell over or got hurt he was their sayin get up little Stahl and then runing down feild. I will miss him very much and i will always see his face and hear his voice i hope u guys do to
P.S Zach i will see you in many years but when i do i will be ready to finish the Game Your Friend and team mate *mike*
Meri Lawhead
March 28, 2005
i dont have much to say...but im sorry for your loss...i know what its like to lose someone close to you...i lost my mother...im here for you kate if you need anything
Joshua Ross
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
I am truly sorry for your loss. I want to send my grievances and pay my regards to the Gentry Family. There are a lot of things I can say, but will never bring back that spark that Zach could provide us with his presence. I, as well as those that knew Zach, were devastated to hear the news. I will never forget what I was doing when I got the call from Zach’s friend Josh Hren. Zach and I were class friends; I met him in math class last year. He always had the attention of the class, funny and strong spirited. I ran into him frequently at church, St. Elizabeth, he never seemed to have a dull moment, no matter how long the Father’s sermon was. Zach was a friend, pal, a helping hand, and he was always there for those that needed him. It seems so recently that the feeling of loss was felt. I too was close friends of JP and Justin. In these times, words can seem so little, but it’s all that I can do to reassure you things will get better. As time passes, all we can do is remember the good times and cheerful memories. Think of Zach when he was sporting that radiant smile. The Gentry’s are in my prayers, God Bless you through these tough times.
-I will be attending the mass @ 11:00 on wed.-
Chelsey Ormsby
March 28, 2005
Gentry Family,
Im so sorry to hear about your tragedy. I was in grade school with Zach. I had a few classes with him as well. He always made me laugh when i was down. He is a great friend, down to earth, and a great atletic person. He will be in our hearts forever, and never be forgotten.
Clarissa Gleason
March 28, 2005
I didn't really know Zach, I saw him around school every day- his locker was down the hall from mine. He gave me my yearbook, but that was the only change I ever had to talk to him. Still, I know that he was a great guy- I heard him talking about God to one of his friends once and at Homestead, that takes a lot of guts. It's terrible that this had to happen to such a great person and your family is in my prayers. Be strong- God's with you.
Todd Ruppert
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentrys,
I knew your son and brother while at Summit. His serious side lended well to his being a good student and a good athlete, his kind and respectful side lended well to his being a good friend, a watchful older brother, and nice young man. Zach always said, "Hi, Mr. Ruppert," each time I saw him in the hallway. It's little things like that the make my day, and Zach was generous with his respect.
I had the chance to work with Zach in Student Council, too. He was a quiet leader, a good listener, and a faithful attender to our meetings. He would do his part in getting meeting information back to his homeroom. I knew I could count on Zach.
During lunch, probably in the spring of his 7th grade year, I remember ribbing Zach about Katelyn thowing the shotput and discuss further than he could do either; he just smiled as if to say, "She probably could." I could tell how proud he was of her.
I know what it's like to love a brother and to lose a loved one. And, I share in your sadness and your tears.
My prayers will be with you all. I'm so, so sorry. God's Peace,
Todd Ruppert
Janet Lindenberg
March 28, 2005
The Gentry Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Zach played soccer at the Fort Wayne Sport Club with my son, Andy. Zach was an excellent player and team mate. He will be greatly missed.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you. I know how devastating and painful this is for you. I will keep all of you in my prayers.
Debra Kirby
March 28, 2005
Dear Family of Zach,
I had Zach in 6th grade at Summit Middle School. He was a good student who always had something to add to the class discussion. He will be sadly missed by many people at Summit. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength and peace.
Wendy Bridegam
March 28, 2005
Please accept my sincere condolances for your loss. I was a member of St. Elizabeth's before I married and a friend of Mrs. Ruth Crippes. You and your entire family are in my family's thoughts and prayers.
Chuck Huston
March 28, 2005
John, Susan, & Family. I learned today of the tragic passing of your son Zach. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. If there is anything at all I can do, please do not hesitate to let me know. The following poem is one of my favorites, I read it at my Dad's funeral, and I hope it gives you just a small degree of solace in this great time of need.
"The tide recedes, but leaves behind bright sea shells on the sand; The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land; the music stops and yet it echos on in sweet refrains; for every joy that passes something beautiful remains."
Jim & Rita Bretl
March 28, 2005
Sue and John,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. We will keep you in our prayers. If there is anything we can do please let us know. May God be with you and your family during this time.
Sarah Butcher
March 28, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
You have always been such an inspiration to others in your faith and in your love for each other. God will lead you through this tragedy, and Zach will always live on in our hearts.
The Butcher Family
Mary Salamone
March 27, 2005
Gentry Family,
As you know Zach was a one of a kind guy. He was a great friend and was kind, funny, down to earth, and lived life to the fullest. As much as I miss him and wishes that he was still here, I'm to relieved to know that he's somewhere great. He has touched many people, including me. Even though he's not physically here for us to see, I know his spirit is still here, living inside everyone. Your son will never be forgotten. Your family is in my prayers..
Bonnie Harris
March 27, 2005
Our daughter is a friend of Sue's
and she was sharing the sorrow felt
in the death of Zachery. Having
been through this ourselves, we
know that a loving family comforts
each other and the family will strengthen each other, but not
without making the communication
effort. Each one will grieve in
there own way and not want to cause
more sorrow for the other. Remembering Zachery with stories
of his life, is one of God's precious gifts. He promises to
carry us when we cannot carry our-
selves and HE WILL. You are in our
prayers.
Dwayne & Sonja Merrill
March 27, 2005
Dear John, Susan and Family,
We are cousins, and it broke our hearts, to hear of your loss. We have heard what a wonderful young man he was becoming. This was a horrific accident. You and your family are in our prayers everyday. If there is anything we could do, please let us know? God Bless Dwayne, Sonja, Dwayne Jr., Sairah, Drayke Merrill
Son of Yvonne (chaon) Dahl.
Leah
March 27, 2005
Zach was such an amazing guy. He wasn't just my boyfriend, but he was a best friend to me. I understand why God would want Zach with him, he was truely an angel. I am going to miss our thursday night O.C. dates. Most of all just his smile and the way he treated me and his love for all of his friends. I don't know how I'm going to go through high school without him. He was loved so much and is already missed dearly. And to the Gentry Family, I love you guys and I've been praying for you. Rest In Peace Zach, I'm staying strong for you love
--Leah, "stinkey"
Larry Hadaway
March 27, 2005
Dear Gentry Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your tragedy. I was on the wrestling team with Zack in middle school. I am also in Zack's grade, he was a really good kid. My prayers are with your family. Zack was will be missed. I'm sorry wish it would not had to happen to such a great guy.
Chris Olry
March 27, 2005
The men of the Beta-Theta chapter of Kappa Sigma would like to express their deepest sympathy for the Gentry family. This tragedy is one that will be felt for years to come. We wish to offer Josh and his family all our support during this time.
Marcia Sherman
March 27, 2005
Dear John, Susan and Family
It broke my heart to hear of your
terrible tragedy. I have wanted to
call you since I heard the news
early Friday morning, but was not
sure if this was the right time.
Please know that myself and all your
friends at Indiana Supply love you
and wish that somehow we could ease
your pain. I only wish I had some
profound words to say to make this
easier but of course I do not. Just
please know that you have been on
my mind and in my heart since I
heard the terrible news. I agree with the family of J P Kindel and
the one thing I know from personal
experience, talking about Zach and
all of your wonderful memories of
him will help you through these
difficult days. John and Susan, I
can think of nothing more heartbreaking than losing a child but I know that your love for each
other, your faith, and your family
and friends will help you through
the days and weeks ahead.
With my sincerest condolences,
Marcia
Angeline Chartier
March 27, 2005
I spent half of this year sharing US History with Zach. I ate B lunch with him and saw him everyday in the halls. He is a dear friend to lose and I will miss and remeber him always. Rest In Peace My Friend.
Ale' Dayton
March 27, 2005
I know Zach from Northwestern Elementary. He gave me my first box of chocolates on Valentines Day. Zach was also my first crush. I moved to Texas but found Zach's screen name from a friend of ours. We started talking and instantly became friends again. Zach was a wonderful person and could always make people smile. My heart goes out to his family through these rough times. Both you and Zach are in my thoughts and prayers.
David, Mary Lynn & Jon Kolhoff
March 27, 2005
John, Susan & Family: We are absolutely heartbroken to hear of Zach's death. Of the hundreds of boys that we have met since moving to Fort Wayne, Zach was one of the finest. You should be so proud of what a fine young man he was which, of course, makes his passing just that much more difficult. You are in our thoughts and have our deepest sympathies and if there is anything that we can do to help in any way, please let us know.
Elizabeth Kehoe
March 27, 2005
It is difficult to imagine any pain more severe than that suffered when someone so young passes. The news of Zachary has shocked our neighborhood community. May you find strength through your faith, family, and friends. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this painful time.
Board of Directors, Staff, and Volunteers of Children’s Hope Hospitality House.
Todd & Heidi Kleinrichert
March 27, 2005
In Loving Memory of Zach:
Our hearts ache for your loss, and we ask our Savior to comfort you in this time of tremendous grief. May He give you strength and courage to continue walking the path He has made for you. Zach's joy, warmth, love & kindness still live in each of you and your precious children. We love you so much! Your brother & sister in Christ, Todd & Heidi
Jo Ann Pauwels
March 26, 2005
My heart was saddened to hear of the Zach's passing. He was one of my students at Summit Middle School. I have many fond memories of the kind young man in my Home Economics class. My prayers are with his family at this time of sorrow.
March 26, 2005
To the family of Zach:
You have been in our thoughts and prayers. We know too well of the shock and pain and terrible heartache that you feel right now. Words are not much comfort and it will seem like the same kind of words, phrases, sentences will be said over and over, again, until they seem to mean even less. However, it will be a comfort to feel the love and shared sorrow from all of your son's friends and from your family. It is a strange and amazing thing.
If I could tell you anything to help, it would be to keep talking about your son, always. And to tell family memories and to hear stories from his friends about Zach that you may not have ever heard. Try to keep your faith in God and know that He is beside you, sharing the sadness and pain that you feel.
Out of all the tragedy of our son's death and the love that we have for him, we try to love each other even more. I know that's what God wants us to do but also what our son would expect from us....
Sincerely, the family of J.P.Kindel
Christine Van Dam
March 26, 2005
I am so sorry for your loss. My parents are aquaintances of yours and we are past members of St. Elizabeth's. My prayers and the prayers of my new CRHP team at Saint Maria Goretti's in Westfield, IN are with you and your family.
Christine and Vince Van Dam
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