Dear Maya and Lolo,
I had so wanted to attend the service for Emil, but right before then was a death in my own family and I had to leave town. I am sure it was a beautiful ceremony as you were surrounded and comforted by your friends and family who loved Emil. The photos brought back fond memories of your family’s time at MSNV, and appreciation for all the years since then as he became a young man. My heart goes out to you during this time of such sadness.
Very fondly,
Betsy Mitchell
0
Emil overlapped with my older son on the ACHS swim team. I took a lot of pictures for the swim team and mostly interacted with him through my camera lens. My memory is that he was kind and a little reserved as an underclassman despite being one of the best swimmers on the team.
After he passed, I volunteered to make a slideshow for his service in order to help out Maya and Lolo. They were stalwarts of the swim community in Alexandria, and I wanted to help them in a small way so that I may make a contribution.
After making the slideshow, I have a more expansive view of Emil's life ... or at least a view of his life provided by the pictures. I saw a young boy who was never afraid to show joy and love to his family, friends and dog. Adolescence caused him to retreat a little into himself, which I think he slowly outgrew. The photos of his later high school and college years show him returning to that person with a warm, unguarded smile and a sparkle of love in his eye. I saw love for him in the faces of his teammates and friends as he grew into a young adult. He seems to have been such a rock of dependability in all aspects of his life and relationships.
I extend my deepest condolences to Emil's family, friends and teammates.
"Just walk fearlessly into the house of mourning, for grief is just love squaring up to its oldest enemy. And after all these mortal human years, love is up to the challenge." — Catherine Burns
0
I swear Emil smiled even when he was underwater! The world has lost a true light- my heart goes out to my fellow swim family the LaSidas with whom I shared many laughs on the pool deck. Emil (and your entire family) made a lasting impression on us all; he can never be forgotten. The Donovan family (AAC and Holy Mackerels)
0
2022, Alexandra Sportsman's Club
Emil Athlete of the Month (and Year) 2022 Alexandria Sportsman's Club
— with
Emil
1
We were so sorry to hear of Emil's passing and send our deepest condolences. We are part of the Wahoos family, and when I told my 13 year-old daughter, Clara, of his death, she grew quiet and said that Coach Emil had taught her how to do breaststroke when she was little. Then a few years ago, Coach Elisabeth was teaching Clara the finer points of diving and she said that Coach Emil had taught her and now she was passing it on. Coach Emil lives on in all those who were fortunate enough to know him and we are grateful we will have the opportunity to celebrate his amazing life with you this week.
0
Dear Maya, Lolo and Lutfi,
My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. There are no words for such a loss. I hope love and beautiful memories bring you moments of peace.
Sending you love, comfort, and peace as you hold Emil in your heart forever.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Sra. Ingrid (MSNV)
0
I was deeply saddened to hear about Emil ’s passing. I remember him from our swimming days when he was just a little boy. Even though our families weren’t very close, we shared those moments together supporting our kids, and he always held a special place in my heart. Please accept my heartfelt condolences — my thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Samrawet.Helms
0
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I met Emil at 6th grade orientation, and we became fast friends. I am thankful that I got to know him at GW and TC. I will never forget him. He will be greatly missed.
0
Sending love and peace from the Velasco and Kent family. We are so sorry to hear of Emil's passing. We remember him as a strong, kind young man who was dedicated himself to his athletic growth while helping to strengthen others. Seeing your family at the Old Town Pool each year was a blessing. We are grateful to have known each of you and are holding you in our hearts.
0
My deepest sympathy. My twins and youngest, Roxie, were grateful to have known Emil’s sweetness and coaching. I am so very sorry for your loss, Maya, Lolo and Lutfi.
0
I'm so sorry for the loss of such an amazing young man. I had the pleasure of being his Chiropractor in middle school and high school and really enjoyed treating him. He was always so thankful and would just bright up after his treatments with a big smile. I pray for everyone to find peace and love. What a wonderful young man.
0
My deepest sympathies go out to the Lasida family. Emil was a much beloved student at our kung fu school. He brought so much joy with his smile and carried himself with so much dignity.
May you find peace and comfort in this difficult time.
0
It's hard to capture the impact Emil had in words. As Emil's friend, his magnetism and charm always impressed me. His kindness and humility alongside with his sense of humor made him a cornerstone of community. He was a galvanizing person that everybody rooted for, both in general and in the pool. Emil's had an innate ability to bring joy to all those around him, those around him would be smiling and laughing, including me. I will remember and miss Emil's legacy of kindness and virtue.
1
We will always remember Emil for his warm smile and kind nature. He was an important part of our children’s summers with the Wahoos in Alexandria, and those memories will always hold a special place in our hearts. The joy he brought to others will not be forgotten.
0
We were incredibly saddened to hear about this. Emil was an outstanding young man, and a great teammate and friend to both our sons. Our hearts hurt for the LaSida family.
0
Share with others
Donate in memory
