Erin Louise Zion

I am sad to hear this news. I knew Erin when I was a student at the GTU in Berkeley. We in a few classes together. I looked her up because I just bought a book written by Fr. Joseph Eagan, SJ, which she helped him write. I lost touch with her after I graduated from the GTU. I will pray for the repose of her soul and for her family.

You are a different part of the universe now, Erin. To Erin's family and friends: Erin was a vibrant and beautiful person. I knew her years ago, and was in a creative writing class with her. I can't succinctly explain why I felt the need to look her up now, but I did, and I am extraordinarily saddened to learn she is no longer walking among my fellow humans. I am so very sorry. I still proudly display one of her works of art in my living room. Love to you, Erin, and peace to all who were fortunate enough to know you.

I attended East Syracuse-Minoa High School with Erin, though she graduating after I did. We happened to maintain a mutual friendship through another friend that we were each close to.
Erin was a kind, sweet, loving, and gentle lady. Erin was extremely bright, yet no matter how "down" she was she always had more compassion for others who were struggling.
Rest well Erin..

I didn't know Erin personally, but I did retain some impressions of her. She was a year ahead of me in high school. I used to pass her in the hallway and see her unusual outfits and admire her expression, which seemed striking and humble at the same time. She seemed like an artistic and deep soul. She was not a typical silly teenager you find in high school. She walked alone most of he time, but I remember a slight smile showing on her face as if she was keeping some kind of marvelous secret. A hint of mysticism seemed to be there in her presence, a kind of fearlessness. I admired that.
As I read some things about her here, I realize we were probably kindred spirits. Never really got to know her, though. My great misfortune. A lesson to me to stop holding back and reach out to people in the present moments.
I am very sorry for her family's loss. I especially know her mother Mary who has always extended so much genuine affection, interest, and support to me personally over the years. Erin was very fortunate to have such a dedicated spiritual practitioner as a Mom. It's probably helped earn her a good spot in heaven. Please accept my sincere condolences.

I did not know Erin personally but know the great parents who brought her into this world and raised her. She must have been very bright and loved God very much, like her wonderful parents, so devoted to holy Mother the church. May she spend eternity learning and enjoying our beautiful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Erin made an amazing impression in me without even meeting her in person. We talked through emails for our work and with her kindness and intelligence she gave me the confidence to start in my new job a year ago. I work from Bogotá (Colombia) and she was always kindhearted and willing to help me. My heart is full with feelings of gratitude with her. May God bless her family during this time of grief.

Erin's passing is a great loss. I worked with her closely for two years during my tenure as the Convener for the Art and Religion Area; Erin was the area assistant.

She was brilliant student, who had planned, to investigate inscriptions on tombstones for her dissertation. A highly unusual topic to be sure, but Erin saw the potential to expand our aesthetic and religious imaginations.

We communicated shortly after Fr. Michael passed away. She asked if I would be attending the memorial service; she also explained the reasons for her withdrawal of the doctoral program.

We have lost a bright and shinny light.

Ronald Y Nakasone
Fremont, California

I've been struggling all week to believe this terrible news. Erin was one of the liveliest people I know. I am truly blessed to have known her. Sending my love to all who are mourning. May the peace of Christ be a comfort to us all.

My prayers are with you and your family. A donation has been made to the East Bay SPCA in honor of Erin.

Erin was a brillliant, creative, extraordinary being. She was a shining light at the GTU and we were blessed to work with her. She is in our hearts forever. Deepest heartfelt condolences to the family.

Kathleen Kook
Dean of Students, GTU