Four of our young people have passed….

In Memoriam

So, we’ll go no more a roving So late into the night, Though the heart be still as loving, And the moon be still as bright.

For the sword outwears its sheath, And the soul wears out the breast, And the heart must pause to breathe, And love itself have rest.

Though the night was made for loving, And the day returns too soon, We will go no more a’roving By the light of the moon. Lord Byron

Dino Maefau

Dino was one of the good guys and was one of the original members of this project. He was born in New Zealand and moved to this county as a boy. His Samoan/Maori heritage encouraged him to be fiercely loyal to his family, and the families of his other friends and relatives.

Dino was a father to 18 children, a grandfather and foster father to dozens more, and a veritable “Godfather” to the rest of the Community. He was a provider, and a protector, and a wise counsel to his whole village. He was an inspiration and a friend.

Dino passed in 2009.

Charles “Jello” Kueck

1974 - 2001

Jello was an anarchist, a revolutionary, and a furious defender of other kids on the streets. He was also a certifiable genius. He scored perfect ACT/SAT scores when he was 15, living in a squat, and addicted to heroin.
He moved to Seattle to escape the streets of LA, and became a member of the local and regional “Punk Scene.” He worked with PSKS to help other, younger street kids, before returning to LA. Jello had often told us that he believed that his life was some kind of cosmic blunder. He believed that he did not belong on this planet, and he wanted off. Sadly for us, in 2001 he got his wish. Jello left behind many, many friends and is dearly missed.

Gabriel Solorsano

1983 - 2005

Gabriel always appeared to be a happy, easy-going kid. His bright, warm smile opened many doors for him and helped him make many, many friends. But he was impatient and seemed to be in a constant, desperate rush to grow up. Gabe was literally 17 when he turned 21.
Gabe contracted a devastating infection in his heart, that severely impacted all of his internal organs. He fought back from overwhelming medical complications and tried to live a normal life, but his body eventually succumbed to the debilitating illness. Gabe left behind his mother, his little brother and many friends who miss him very much.

Kyle Lakeside

1993 - 2018

Our young friend Kyle passed last December, after a serious battle with kidney disease. Kyle was a gentle soul, who endured more than his share of suffering in his young life, but will be remembered for his resiliency, his loyalty to family and friends, and his indomitable spirit.
Kyle was a veritable mix of Tom Sawyer and the Artful Dodger. He leaves behind his father, three brothers, and a community of people who loved him.
Godspeed, Kyle.