GRAYSLAKE, IL — A 15-year-old Round Lake boy who drowned in the Chain O' Lakes is being remembered as a beloved student-athlete who brought joy to those around him.
Brayan Monzanga, a sophomore at Grayslake Central High School, was a three-sport athlete who played football and basketball and ran track. Family, friends and school officials remembered him for his kindness, positive attitude and ability to inspire others, according to the Lake & McHenry County Scanner.
Monzanga was on a boat with friends when he either fell or jumped into the water on July 13 while in Myers Bay on Pistakee Lake and did not resurface, authorities said. A large multi-agency rescue response searched the area before his body was recovered, and the Lake County Coroner's Office later determined his death was caused by drowning.
"When he didn't resurface, his friends jumped in and tried to find him," Covelli said. "Unfortunately, they were unable to."
A GoFundMe was set up to support Brayan Monzanga's family as they navigate the unexpected costs and emotional toll following his death. The fundraiser, which has brought in more than $70,000, will help Brayan's father, Andre Monzanga, with funeral expenses, lost wages and other urgent needs while allowing the family to focus on grieving and honoring Brayan's memory.
"Brayan Monzanga was an amazing 15-year-old who touched the lives of so many in his life. From his neighborhood to his schools, sports teams, and our community, he was loved by all. He was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, and a friend to so many," according to the GoFundMe.
His family said Monzanga, who was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and moved to the United States as a young child, will be remembered for his "high energy," humility, smile and love for his family, according to the article.
"Brayan brought joy to the lives of so many and left a lasting impact on families, friends, classmates, teachers, teammates and the Grayslake community," his family said.
Brayan was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and moved to the United States with his family when he was 1 year old. His family said sports were one of his greatest passions, and he spent his time playing basketball, football and other activities with friends and teammates, according to his obituary.
He was remembered for his high energy, humility, charming smile and ability to inspire those around him, according to the obituary. His family said Brayan's kindness, respect for others and love for his family left a lasting impact on classmates, teachers, teammates and the Grayslake community.
"Those that knew Brayan will always remember his big goofy smile. They will remember his ability to always be respectful to anyone he met and will remember his love for his family," according to the obituary.
Funeral services for Bryan were held Friday and Saturday.
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