remembering Chaz

My son, Chaz Legere, was indisputably a special and unique person with a generous and kind spirit that became apparent at a young age. As early as two years-old, he exhibited love, compassion, and kindness to those around him, especially other children. Chaz was a child who would share his toys with others even if it meant that he went without. I recall one Halloween when Chaz was four, instead of greeting homeowners with an expectant “trick or treat” he would excitedly call out “Happy Halloween” (the candy was an afterthought). Chaz was comical, endearing, and engaging.  As Chaz grew older, it became apparent that he was the peacekeeper.  In situations when conflict would arise, he was the guy who stepped in to help settle the matter. He had a way of reassuring everyone that things would work out and always found a way to bring humor into the situation. It was Chaz’s comical nature that people were attracted to. Chaz was easy to be around.  

Throughout his Junior and High School years, Chaz was much loved by his friends and peers. He was known as a funny guy who always had something positive and uplifting to say…more likely he would crack some clever joke appropriate to the conversation. Wherever Chaz went laughter followed. 

When the news of his passing was announced on Facebook, within 24 hours there were over 200 responses, most of them recalling Chaz’s great sense of humor and what a cool, kind, and loving person he was. He had a positive impact on everyone who knew him. As Chaz’s father, I believe that Chaz would have gone on to have a profound impact on those around him, making this planet a better place to be.

Part of the goal of this foundation in Chaz’s name is to help people who may have lost loved ones unexpectedly during the grieving process. We want to be of assistance to families whose lives may be affected by alcoholism, addiction, and perhaps even mental health struggles. We believe that Chaz would have supported such an endeavor that would allow us to carry on his positive impact and influence in the world. 

While we as his family, are unclear what kind of afterlife may exist, we all take comfort knowing that his amazing spirit has moved to a better place, and perhaps that spirit can continue to be loving influence on those who are missing him and on those who never had the benefit of meeting and experiencing his remarkable charisma. 

One of Chaz’s favorite activities was playing hockey.  A sport he began playing at the age of six or seven, through youth hockey, high school, and eventually played for the University of Northern Colorado hockey team.  He was still playing competitive hockey at the time of his passing. Chaz played for the Boulder Bison Hockey Club during his junior and high school years. He developed a close relationship with his teammates and coaches. I recall a team meeting in front of the players and their families, where he was recognized by his coach of three years as the hardest working, most unselfish player on his team. At an age when most kids want the puck to shoot and score themselves, Chaz would frequently pass the puck to a teammate giving them the opportunity for glory instead of taking the shot himself.  This remained a quality throughout his hockey career.  

This was Chaz. He was considerate of others. He brought humor into the world in which he left so suddenly. He has left a void that we intend to fill through the Chaz Legere Recovery Foundation. 

Leo Legere