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  1. What a beautiful testimonial this obituary gives to Zach’s incredible life. He always stood out in my fond memories of children I had the honor to nurture through my physical therapy practice. My sorrow is deep for this loss on earth, but I rejoice for Heaven’s gain! In my heart, I want to share the incredible impact Zach had on my life personally and as a professional. If one is allowed to speak at his memorial service, might I be so honored or perhaps, I could just express my written thoughts for you personally rather than publicly. May God comfort you in these days ahead as you celebrate his life.

  2. My thoughts are with you and your family at this time; may your memories bring you comfort.

    “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” ~~ Eskimo Proverb

  3. Zach was a bright light, always welcoming and respecting the “older set” at Kitty Hawk UMC. He was beautifully and strongly loved by his parents and church family. My heartfelt condolences to all whose lives Zach touched. His light continues to shine and bless as we remember him.

  4. It is with shock and sadness that I write this note. What an overcomer and success story Zach was and this obituary succinctly honors him. Having interacted with him as a preschooler, I remember him as being a true miracle child. He surmounted seemingly impossible odds. Years later, it was a pleasure to be able to spend time with him briefly as a high school student and learn of his aspirations. May you sense the Lord’s presence as you navigate the coming days. May you also be anchored in the assurance of faith and the promise we have in resurrection.

  5. Janet, I am stunned and saddened to hear about Zack. My heart goes out to you and your family. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything…xo, Judi

  6. Janet – I am so sorry to hear of your loss of Zack. I am thinking of you. My heartfelt prayers are with you and Bill.

  7. Such a short time to share with your amazing son. I was never fortunate enough to meet Zack but he sounds like a son that every parent would be so grateful for and proud of. May God’s love, peace and understanding be poured upon everyone who loved and will miss Zack.

  8. Zach was an amazing young man who I had the honor of meeting during his middle school years. He always had a smile on his face and information to share from his varied topics of interest. He was a kind and caring soul. I can only imagine the beacon of sheer delight he was to his family. My sincere condolences to his family and friends as you mourn the loss of Zach.

  9. Oh, Jan, I am so saddened to learn of Zach’s death. What a remarkable young man!! So brilliant and always smiling! Sending hugs and love,
    Nibs Stewart

  10. Our dear Janet,

    Muffin and I extend to you outr condolences and deepest sympathy for the loss of your son, Zach.

    Your loss is heartbreaking, Janet Our prayers are with you and your family

    Love,

    John and Muffn

  11. Our dear Janet,

    we are just Mel a note extending to you and your family our deepest regrets and the death of your son, Zach

    Our sincerest thoughts are with you, Janet

    Love,

    John and Muffin

  12. SO SORRY TO HEAR OF ZACK PASSING MY PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AT THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME

  13. Janet, I have no words. I am unbelievably saddened to hear of Zack’s passing. My heart breaks for you and my love goes out to you and your family and all of your dear friends who are suffering from sadness. May you be forever comforted in the many memories of the love and good times shared. May peace be with you.

  14. I did not know Zack well but remember him from church. My heartfelt condolences to his family as it is so sad to lose a child. May God bring you peace in the coming days.

  15. I loved meeting up with Zach when he worked at Harris.Teeter. what a sweet young man.
    He was such a fighter.

  16. Janet – I’m so sorry to hear of Zack’s passing. It’s so sad and I’m sure, very hard to bear.
    I’d like to come to the memorial service but I’ll be out of town then. Holding you in my heart and thoughts for a return to peace and a happy life.

    Love, Sherrie

  17. We remember Zach as the young man that loved the stratosphere and beyond! He was launched into achieving many amazing heights by his stalwart family and loving community.

  18. I am so sorry for your loss. I cherish the days I spent with Zach at Kitty Hawk UMC youth group and especially all our time golfing together at The Pointe. He was a dear friend and I am heartbroken by his passing.

  19. Janet, we are SO saddened to hear this news. I am thankful to have known him as such a tiny little fellow and to watch him grow into an Eagle Scout, then see him around the neighborhood. May he rest in peace and may God’s comforting hands envelop you as you journey through this grief. You’re family is in our prayers. With love, Blake, Christen & the entire Buchert family ❤️

  20. Janet and family,
    There are no words. Please know that I lift you all up in prayer for peace and comfort. He will always live in your hearts.

  21. Janet, I am so sorry to hear of the devastating loss of your precious son. He apparently was a very amazing young man who overcame many obstacles. I understand the grief of losing a child…an only child… and I am holding you close in my heart. ❤️

  22. Janet,

    I am so very sorry for the loss of Zach. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the good memories of his time earth side comfort you. Sending you so much love.

  23. Janet,

    my brother told me the news, and I just want to tell you how sad , and how shocking it is.
    In our shared time you did tell me about the challenges you faced , overcame, wondered about, and how you grew from them with Zach.
    my heart , prayers, respect, and condolences are with you… there are no words at a time like this that can comfort your soul, just know that you loved and nurtured Zach more than you’ve ever loved anyone, and in the end….. that is what matters. my prayers are with you, and Zach….. 💔

  24. We are truly sorry about Zack. Although we had lost touch over the years, we are very proud of all of his accomplishments and accolades and we have very fond memories of him! Loved to fish with Zack! Take care.

  25. Janet and family,
    Asking God to enfold you in His faithful love and comfort you with the cherished memories you hold dear. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
    Sincerely,
    Paul and Paula Falacco

  26. I heard from Chris and Jess about Zack.

    Words cannot describe how much we are sorry for your loss.

    my brother and I were both Eagle Scouts and I know how hard it is to achieve that goal. Vigil is the next level above that and is an expression of character as well as intelligence and effort.

    You’ve lost a very good one and I’m sorry to have never had a chance to meet him.

    Yours in Christ.

  27. Janet,
    My heart reaches out to you and family for the loss of your beautiful son Zack. I loved and admired Zack’s wit, intelligence, kind heart and curiosity. We was just delightful.

  28. Janet,
    My heart reaches out to you and family for the loss of your beautiful son Zack. I loved and admired Zack’s wit, intelligence, kind heart and curiosity. He was just delightful.

  29. Remembering Zach as a brilliant and engaging young man;always eager and excited to talk sports with us, especially Red Sox baseball. Our condolences on his passing. Lauri & Dick McAuliffe

  30. My heart is full and heavy to hear this news. While I had lost touch with Zack, I will always remember him so sweetly as one of my first best friends in life. In elementary school, his humor, kindness, and love of outer space led us to each other. I feel so grateful to have known and loved Zack and Im sending him, and your family, a huge hug.

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Zachary M. Owen

August 4, 2024

Zachary McDaniel Owen of Southern Shores, age 29, passed away on August 4, 2024. He was predeceased by his father, William C. Owen, and grandparents, William L. Owen, Jr. and Christine M. Owen and Robert E. McDaniel and June H. McDaniel. Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Janet M. Owen-Rosso (husband, William L. Rosso), uncles, R. Stephen McDaniel and David L. Owen, and cousins, Halley C. McDaniel, Natalie M. Gallagher and Davis L. Owen.

Zack overcame so many obstacles in his short life. His family is grateful to the countless professionals who worked so hard with him on his muscle tone, oral-motor function, speech, ASD and more. He was unique in every way, with bright red hair, a big guffawing laugh, an unconventional sense of humor and remarkable intelligence, along with awkward social and communication skills. His heart was huge. A true math geek, Zack also enjoyed model building, reading, fencing, and anything and everything that would (or could be made to) fly.

Zack was very involved in the Boy Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of 15, and became a member of the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s Honor Society. He graduated from First Flight High School as Valedictorian. He attended the Georgia Institute of Technology, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, and was extraordinarily proud to be “a ramblin’ wreck from Georgia Tech.” He went on to earn his Master’s Degree in AE from Old Dominion University. To keep his Engineering skills sharp, he attended numerous conferences and completed specialized classes.

Zack moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico to accept a job with the Boeing Corporation. He had recently returned to the Outer Banks to look for a position closer to the family he loved on the East Coast.   A memorial service will be held for Zack on Friday, August 16th at 11:00 am at Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church, followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.  In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome memorial donations in Zack’s honor at The Outer Banks Community Foundation or The Nature Conservancy at Nags Head Woods. Please share condolences with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

Condolences

Della Gill

What a beautiful testimonial this obituary gives to Zach’s incredible life. He always stood out in my fond memories of children I had the honor to nurture through my physical therapy practice. My sorrow is deep for this loss on earth, but I rejoice for Heaven’s gain! In my heart, I want to share the incredible impact Zach had on my life personally and as a professional. If one is allowed to speak at his memorial service, might I be so honored or perhaps, I could just express my written thoughts for you personally rather than publicly. May God comfort you in these days ahead as you celebrate his life.

Faye Lewark Daniels

My thoughts are with you and your family at this time; may your memories bring you comfort. “Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” ~~ Eskimo Proverb

Jo Anne Swartz

Zach was a bright light, always welcoming and respecting the "older set" at Kitty Hawk UMC. He was beautifully and strongly loved by his parents and church family. My heartfelt condolences to all whose lives Zach touched. His light continues to shine and bless as we remember him.

Christine Wissman

Janet, I am so very sorry for your loss.

Lynette Crews

It is with shock and sadness that I write this note. What an overcomer and success story Zach was and this obituary succinctly honors him. Having interacted with him as a preschooler, I remember him as being a true miracle child. He surmounted seemingly impossible odds. Years later, it was a pleasure to be able to spend time with him briefly as a high school student and learn of his aspirations. May you sense the Lord's presence as you navigate the coming days. May you also be anchored in the assurance of faith and the promise we have in resurrection.

Judi S

Janet, I am stunned and saddened to hear about Zack. My heart goes out to you and your family. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything…xo, Judi

John Leatherwood

Janet - I am so sorry to hear of your loss of Zack. I am thinking of you. My heartfelt prayers are with you and Bill.

Billy and Ginger Candelora

Such a short time to share with your amazing son. I was never fortunate enough to meet Zack but he sounds like a son that every parent would be so grateful for and proud of. May God's love, peace and understanding be poured upon everyone who loved and will miss Zack.

Kathy Hoffner

Zach was an amazing young man who I had the honor of meeting during his middle school years. He always had a smile on his face and information to share from his varied topics of interest. He was a kind and caring soul. I can only imagine the beacon of sheer delight he was to his family. My sincere condolences to his family and friends as you mourn the loss of Zach.

Vivienne (Nibs) Stewart

Oh, Jan, I am so saddened to learn of Zach’s death. What a remarkable young man!! So brilliant and always smiling! Sending hugs and love, Nibs Stewart

John Bond Gillam, 111

Our dear Janet, Muffin and I extend to you outr condolences and deepest sympathy for the loss of your son, Zach. Your loss is heartbreaking, Janet Our prayers are with you and your family Love, John and Muffn

John Bond Gillam, 111

Our dear Janet, we are just Mel a note extending to you and your family our deepest regrets and the death of your son, Zach Our sincerest thoughts are with you, Janet Love, John and Muffin

LEONARD FRANCIS JR

SO SORRY TO HEAR OF ZACK PASSING MY PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AT THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME

Stephanie Baker

Janet, I have no words. I am unbelievably saddened to hear of Zack’s passing. My heart breaks for you and my love goes out to you and your family and all of your dear friends who are suffering from sadness. May you be forever comforted in the many memories of the love and good times shared. May peace be with you.

Jane Ross

I did not know Zack well but remember him from church. My heartfelt condolences to his family as it is so sad to lose a child. May God bring you peace in the coming days.

Helen Pisek

I loved meeting up with Zach when he worked at Harris.Teeter. what a sweet young man. He was such a fighter.

Sherrie Lemnios

Janet - I'm so sorry to hear of Zack's passing. It's so sad and I'm sure, very hard to bear. I'd like to come to the memorial service but I'll be out of town then. Holding you in my heart and thoughts for a return to peace and a happy life. Love, Sherrie

Bob & Shirley Ruff

We remember Zach as the young man that loved the stratosphere and beyond! He was launched into achieving many amazing heights by his stalwart family and loving community.

Matthew Miller

I am so sorry for your loss. I cherish the days I spent with Zach at Kitty Hawk UMC youth group and especially all our time golfing together at The Pointe. He was a dear friend and I am heartbroken by his passing.

Blake & Christen Buchert

Janet, we are SO saddened to hear this news. I am thankful to have known him as such a tiny little fellow and to watch him grow into an Eagle Scout, then see him around the neighborhood. May he rest in peace and may God's comforting hands envelop you as you journey through this grief. You're family is in our prayers. With love, Blake, Christen & the entire Buchert family ❤️

Evelyn Talbott

Janet and family, There are no words. Please know that I lift you all up in prayer for peace and comfort. He will always live in your hearts.

Bobbie Perry

Janet, I am so sorry to hear of the devastating loss of your precious son. He apparently was a very amazing young man who overcame many obstacles. I understand the grief of losing a child…an only child… and I am holding you close in my heart. ❤️

Morgan

Janet, I am so very sorry for the loss of Zach. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the good memories of his time earth side comfort you. Sending you so much love.

Kevin Dougherty

Janet, my brother told me the news, and I just want to tell you how sad , and how shocking it is. In our shared time you did tell me about the challenges you faced , overcame, wondered about, and how you grew from them with Zach. my heart , prayers, respect, and condolences are with you... there are no words at a time like this that can comfort your soul, just know that you loved and nurtured Zach more than you've ever loved anyone, and in the end..... that is what matters. my prayers are with you, and Zach..... 💔

The Browns

We are truly sorry about Zack. Although we had lost touch over the years, we are very proud of all of his accomplishments and accolades and we have very fond memories of him! Loved to fish with Zack! Take care.

Paul and Paula Falacco

Janet and family, Asking God to enfold you in His faithful love and comfort you with the cherished memories you hold dear. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Paul and Paula Falacco

Ernest C Brown

I heard from Chris and Jess about Zack. Words cannot describe how much we are sorry for your loss. my brother and I were both Eagle Scouts and I know how hard it is to achieve that goal. Vigil is the next level above that and is an expression of character as well as intelligence and effort. You’ve lost a very good one and I’m sorry to have never had a chance to meet him. Yours in Christ.

Lynda Wood

Janet, My heart reaches out to you and family for the loss of your beautiful son Zack. I loved and admired Zack's wit, intelligence, kind heart and curiosity. We was just delightful.

Lynda Wood

Janet, My heart reaches out to you and family for the loss of your beautiful son Zack. I loved and admired Zack's wit, intelligence, kind heart and curiosity. He was just delightful.

Lauri McAuliffe

Remembering Zach as a brilliant and engaging young man;always eager and excited to talk sports with us, especially Red Sox baseball. Our condolences on his passing. Lauri & Dick McAuliffe

Abbie Thigpen

My heart is full and heavy to hear this news. While I had lost touch with Zack, I will always remember him so sweetly as one of my first best friends in life. In elementary school, his humor, kindness, and love of outer space led us to each other. I feel so grateful to have known and loved Zack and Im sending him, and your family, a huge hug.