Montco Community Mourns As Beloved Teacher Dies Suddenly At 35

ROYERSFORD, PA — The community is reeling following the sudden death of a local high school Spanish teacher who was just 35-years-old.

Zach Stewart, who taught 9th graders at Spring-Ford Area High School, was training at his gym, Precision Jiu-Jitsu of Spring Mount, when he passed away. Friends said his death was due to an "unknown previous medical issue."

Stewart leaves behind two young sons, two-year-old Harrison and two-month-old Everett, as well as his wife, Karena.

"Mr. Stewart was a good friend, an excellent teacher that connected with all students, a tremendous employee dedicated to the language department, a committed coach, and an amazing father and husband," the school district said in a statement mourning him on Tuesday. "Because of our close school community, his loss touches so many in our district."

Stewart graduated from Ursinus College in 2005, where he played rugby and wrestled. He very quickly found his calling, and went on teach at Spring-Ford for 13 years. He became an active and influential member of the local martial arts community, and taught jiu-jitsu at his gym.

"A father, partner, teammate, and teacher, Zach made a tremendous impact during his short time on Earth," the Ursinus College Men's Rugby team said in a note remembering Stewart.

Online, former students remembered Stewart as a warm and compassionate person, with more than one calling him "probably my favorite teacher ever."

A GoFundMe campaign launched to create a college fund for Stewart's two young children has already raised more than $45,000 as of Tuesday morning.

The funds raised through the campaign will also help create a scholarship for a Spanish student at Spring-Ford.

Further details on the scholarship fund and a celebration of life will be provided in the coming days.

To learn more about the campaign and donate, see here.

Image via GoFundMe