2004 - 2025
Zack approached life with creativity, curiosity, and a sharp sense of humor that could draw laughter from anyone. He had a passion for music and visual art, especially designing album covers for musicians and making his own music, often creating beats from scratch and sometimes surprising loved ones by “singing his feelings.” His love for animals, particularly his cat Tonka (and Tonka’s escapades), was a constant source of joy.
As a child, Zack enjoyed swimming, practicing karate, and learning to play electric guitar. As he grew older, he spent countless hours riding his bike around town, building PCs, playing video games and basketball, and later took pride in working on his truck. Time spent with Zack had a way of turning simple plans into lasting memories—the simplest plans somehow became everyone’s favorite memories.
Those who will forever hold him close include his mother, Mary Beth; his sister, Emily; Aunt Jolene and her wife, Beth; Uncle Kevin and his wife, Amanda, and their sons, Conner and Charlie; his brother, Jon Jr.; Uncle Bill Fox of Webster; and Aunt Jean Dalbec of Leicester. He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Joseph B. Dawe; maternal grandparents Mary and Cliff Rivet; Harry J. Fox; Poppa Mick Beams; Aunt Juanita Fox; and Uncle Leo Dalbec, Jr. He also leaves behind many other loved ones, including nieces and nephews, and most especially his girlfriend, Lillie Brooks, who brought him a happiness that was uniquely her own.
He was blessed as an infant to be placed with his grandmother who later legally adopted him, becoming his mother, a bond cherished throughout his life. This experience shaped Zack’s compassion, especially for children raised by grandparents or navigating foster care, a cause that mattered deeply to him.
In honor of Zack’s memory, the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Weriseabove.org, a foundation dedicated to bringing stability and opportunity to children in foster care. Contributions may be made online or by check payable to Rise Above Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 174, Northbridge, MA 01534.
Funeral services are private.
