OAKLAND – Zachary Elijah McRae, 17, of Oaklan, died Friday, March 18, from injuries sustained in a car accident.

He was born June 14, 1987, in Aurora, Colo., the son of Colleen McRae. At three months old, he moved to Maine, where his loving parents, Michael and Michelle (Strom) McRae adopted him.

Zach was a fun, loving young man who enjoyed spending time with his large, extended family and his many friends. He particularly enjoyed the recent family vacations to the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Las Vegas, and was looking forward to going to Hawaii this coming summer.

He enjoyed several types of music, and had played guitar since he was a toddler. When he was in kindergarten, front row seats at the BB King concert with his dad will always be treasured.

Zach’s largest passion in life were the 13 years he danced at Studio One for Dancers. He idolized his instructor, Mr. Scott (Stevens.)

Zach spent many hours skateboarding with his friends at parks throughout Central Maine.

He is survived by his parents of Oakland; two brothers, Matthew and Joshua Cote; grandparents, Sandra Steward of Florida, and Paul Strom of Massachusetts; and great-grandmother, Ruth Libby, of Oakland.

He is also survived by his biological mother, Colleen Sturgis and her husband Rick, and their children, Tanner, Brianna, Sam, Tony, and Ricky Sturgis, all of Auburn. He leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him.

He will be greatly missed by many, many friends, especially his girlfriend, Jess Dudley, of Waterville. His dog, Jasmine, will be lost without him.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, John and Edith McRae; an aunt, Eileen (McRae) Cote, and her husband Dana Cote; and his beloved uncle, Patrick McRae.

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