Ashburn Man Killed In Crash Remembered For His ‘Spirited Energy’

ASHBURN, VA — Those who knew 39-year-old Simon Chang said he had “a gift of blessing those around him with his encouraging words and humor,” and to honor his memory, friends and family have set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to benefit Chang’s son, Benaiah.

Chang, an Ashburn resident and special education teacher at South Lakes High School in Reston, died after the motorcycle he was driving crashed into a wooded area near the 4900 block of Alliance Drive in Fairfax. Police said a groundskeeper discovered his body the evening of Aug. 22 near the wreckage of his motorcycle. He was originally reported missing Aug. 19.

The fundraiser, which has raised more than $10,000 as of Tuesday, was launched in lieu of flowers or other memorials, according to the GoFundMe page. Donations will directly benefit the “healthy growth and development” of Chang’s son.

“Simon will be remembered for his spirited energy and enthusiasm. He had a gift of blessing those around him with his encouraging words and humor. His laugh was contagious and brought people together,” according to the GoFundMe page. “He served God with passion and sacrifice wholeheartedly as a missionary for International House of Prayer. He had a passion to positively influence the youth as a teacher and basketball coach for South Lakes High School. He was dearly loved by those who knew him.”

South Lakes issued a statement Saturday saying the community was "mourning the death" of Chang. "Mr. Chang was as a beloved member of the Seahawk family," the statement reads. "He will be remembered for his positivity and dedication to our staff and students. He will be greatly missed. We have been in contact with Mr. Chang's family to offer our condolences and support."

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SEE ALSO:

Missing Ashburn Man Dies In Fairfax Motorcycle Crash

Police Request Help Locating Missing Ashburn Man