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02/01/2018 11:00 PM

'Ethan, We Love You'


Residents gather at the Guilford Green to remember Ethan Song. Photo by Pem McNerney/The Courier

On a frigid evening, hundreds of residents gathered on the Guilford Green to honor and celebrate the life of 15-year-old Ethan Song, a young man friends and family described as brilliant, funny, honest, and true.

The tolling of bells, prayers from the reverends of the First Congregational Church, and stories from friends and loved ones marked the vigil held on Feb. 2, two days after Song died of a gunshot wound. Friends and classmates of Ethan's spoke of his quick wit, his dedication to his friends, his competitive spirit, and the lasting effect he has had on so many in the community.

Ethan's father, Mike Song, addressed the crowd and thanked the whole community for the outpouring of support.

"You might wonder what impact that [a text or call] has on someone who has lost a child and I will tell you, it does make a difference," he said. "It's a moment where you stop the grieving for one second and go, 'Oh that person cares about us'. It's a point of light."

Song then asked the crowd to turn their eyes to the sky and say, 'Ethan, we love you'. As a chorus of voices answered his request, one thing was clear - Ethan is loved and will never be forgotten.

Funeral service details have been released.

Calling hours will be Sunday, Feb. 4 from 3-7 p.m. at the First Congregational Church on 122 Broad Street. The service is Monday, also at the First Congregational Church, at 10 a.m.

All are welcome.