“Zack was my choir teacher,” read one line from a six-year-old girl. “But he was more than a teacher. He was my friend. He taught me more than church songs. He taught me about GOD!” The young girl’s letter was filled with doting words and was surrounded by music notes drawn in bright crayon.

In the same area, a large photo collage showcased Zachary’s love for music. The pictures boasted him singing, dancing or acting on stage, but none without a smile.

According to Dan, faith, family, music and art were Zachary’s life and his memorial service filled with lots of music and song deeply reflected those characteristics.

“(Zachary) is such a rare talent,” said Joel Novak, his brother. “He opened up a whole new world to me. I’ve never met anyone close to his qualities.”

In closing, Dan thanked everyone from friends to members of the Anderson and Bloomington communities for loving his son and showing great support. “The community has always supported my family,” he said, adding that Zachary also supported the community and participated in community events such as singing for the Anderson Symphony Orchestra.

“The thing about Zachary was his spirit, his true and genuine spirit. You never knew what to expect, but whatever it was turned out phenomenal.”

To continue Zachary’s good work and outpouring of love, two memorial scholarships have been established, one for college music students and another for aspiring high school music students wanting to attend college.

To contribute to college students, send contributions to Zachary J. Novak Memorial Scholarship fund C/O Anderson University School of Music, 1100 E. Fifth St., Anderson IN 46012. To support aspiring high school musicians, send donations to 1229 Lincoln St., Anderson IN 46016.