It has been almost four months since the unexpected death of our middle son, Zachary. I am writing this column on behalf of the Junkin family as a thank you note to our community. To all the good souls that brought food to the farm, we thank you. It all tasted delicious and was so much appreciated. In the immediate aftermath of Zach’s death, simple everyday chores seemed so pointless, and time was consumed by trying to make sense of this senseless loss.
To all those who took the time to send cards of condolences, whether you are close friends or not so close, we thank you. Many of these cards contained stories of how Zach’s actions had impacted someone years ago with an act of kindness that was still remembered and appreciated. Most of these stories we had never heard—they are very much appreciated and treasured.
To the 300-plus friends and residents who attended the celebration of Zach’s life, we thank you. It was a night of Zach stories and memories, and it was truly amazing the range of people who were touched by Zach—both older and younger, high school buddies, university friends, people from the various places he had worked, almost everyone came with a story. One favourite and surprising story was told by a close friend of Zach’s, who recalled how the two of them had travelled to Texas when they were 16 to explore the BMX bike parks. Zach had ended up having his picture taken while naked as a jaybird, sitting on the back of a Texas cop car!
To the 500-plus people who donated to the Go Fund Me page that was set up for Zach’s wife, Brooke, their daughter Celeste, and their unborn daughter at the time, thank you. Through your collective donations, an amount just short of $100,000 was raised. That is amazing and is received with gratitude. (Their second daughter, Ginny, was born on November 7, and mom and baby are doing well).
And finally, a big thank you to all the couples that reached out to us who have already travelled the road that we are now navigating— parents who have lost a child—and said, “Junkins, we have your back and when you need someone to share your pain with we are here for you.” Your kind words and willingness to share your experiences with us is truly remarkable.
All of the above acts of kindness have been small stepping stones that have helped to lift us out of this huge pit of despair that we have found ourselves in, and, as life dictates, we will emerge from...eventually.
The compassion and kindness that we have received from our community will always be appreciated and never forgotten.
Marvin Junkin on behalf of the Junkin Family
