I don’t know much about Zach beyond the impact he made on me through the chat feature of our game. I don’t know what he did for work, or where he lived, what he looked like in real life, or really anything biographical about him.

I knew Zach as ABananaSandwich, or “Banana” for short. I met him through a mutual friend in the online game we played, then-touted by my friend as the guy to help us get through a very tough mission. Banana was so patient with my friend and I as he guided us through the battles and did all the hard parts for us. By the time we finished, Banana had fallen asleep. My friend and I found this hilarious — he sleepwalked us to victory.

Banana always had a strict bedtime. He was wildly competent, but if you wanted to play with him, you had to play by his rules. That meant being done by 8:30.

My favorite memory of him is the one and only time he broke this rule.

There’s a highly sought-after piece of gear that's very hard to get. We had to do the hardest type of mission, while doing difficult activities alongside the mission in order to get it. And Banana, in his generosity and patience, guided me and four other players through this mission for three and a half hours. I remember after we failed the final boss at one point, he said, “We’re doing this *tonight*, even if I have to stay up all night. Let’s try again.” It was so… peaceful. And comforting. And confident. It wasn’t a matter of if we'd get it, but when. When we did get the gear at the end, we lined up and took a screenshot of the team with our new gear to celebrate. It’s my most cherished memory of him.

In our community, someone like Banana is referred to as a “Sherpa”: someone who makes the impossible achievable through selflessness, patience, competence, and tenacity. I try my best to pay forward those qualities he showed me as a college student trying to learn a game.  I wish I could do it in his honor instead of his memory.

Per Audacia Ad Astra, Banana. We’ll see you starside.

I played on-line games with Zachary and from that experience knew what a kind and giving person he was. He was always there to help another player acomplish something and that included me. We chatted while playing and from that I knew his love of animals and his volunteer work. My condolences to his close friends and family, I know he will be missed. I miss him as well.

Zach took me to my first Stars game well over a decade ago. I just moved back into town (Dallas) 3 years ago and we got to share memories of bowling, hanging out, and another stars game. He was one of the most kindest people I will have ever known. And when we got to visit his apartment a while back we got to see his love of those kitties. My most hart felt condolences to the family. He was the joy and ray of light so many people need in this life.

James and Janine, I am so sorry for your loss. Zach and I were good friends many years ago, roommates at one point. He was such a kind soul, always willing to have thoughtful discussion about just about anything and not to mention, willing to keep just about anyone company. You’re both in my thoughts.

James and Janine,
Shawn and I are beyond saddened to hear of Zach's passing.  Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.  We are so grateful for the fond memories and good times we shared with Zach; he was a part of our family.  Zach was such a kind, thoughtful, and caring person and will live in our hearts forever.  I pray our Lord Jesus Christ sustain you, lift your hearts, and fill you with His love and peace at this harrowing time.   Please know our heart and prayers are with you.
Debora and Shawn Simonson

So sorry to hear about your son. I’m sure he was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

OBITUARY

Zachary James Gaydos

April 26, 1989 – December 25, 2024

Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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