Family and friends pay tribute to Springfield drowning victim

By Amanda Raus

Tools

By Meghan Backus

Story Published: Aug 4, 2006 at 11:28 PM EDT

Story Updated: Aug 4, 2006 at 11:28 PM EDT

Words of hope, messages of remembrance and dozens of people came together in Indian Orchard tonight to pay tribute to Tyreke Foote.
"We're here celebrating his life. We're not ever going to forget him. It's my baby. I've got him right here on my arm, he's not going anywhere, never," said Tyreke's aunt, Gina Harris.
The 14-year-old drowned Saturday while swimming with friends at the Quineboag Cove Campground. His family thinks he got a cramp while in the water, but they can only speculate what pulled the boy under.
"I miss him, I don't know I think I need answers," said his uncle, Walter Harris. Tonight, Tyreke's friends and family took turns at an open microphone to tell stories of his life and remember him in death. His family says it helps give closure to an all-too-sudden death.
"It shows us how loved our nephew was, it shows us how much support our nephew had behind him," explained Gina. Even in his death, Tyreke is helping others through organ donation.
And his family wants to keep that sentiment going in Tyreke's name. Walter told us, "I want to start a scholarship fund for Tyreke, so another kid can benefit from some of the wisdom he had."

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shasarey smith said on Thursday, Apr 22 at 4:01 PM

this is really sad really, i give all my prayers to the family and friends. i hope you the best cause i know its hard. ;-(

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