Students and community members are mourning the death of a former Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School student who died last week in Colorado.

Yossi Monahan grew up on the Island and attended the Chilmark School and the high school before moving off the Island in his sophomore year.

“As we come together to remember and celebrate Yossi, let us surround the Monahan family with love, support, and strength,” the high school wrote Friday in a Facebook post. “In the face of such a profound loss, may we find solace in the cherished memories we hold dear.”

A celebration for his life was planned for Saturday in Colorado. People can also attend it virtually over Zoom, and a there will be a gathering to watch at the Tri-Town Ambulance building in Chilmark at 1:30 p.m. 

Principal Sara Dingledy said Mr. Monahan, who was on the swimming and sailing team, died Dec. 3. Though she only knew him for two years, Ms. Dingledy remembered Mr. Monahan for his kindness. 

“He was just a really thoughtful and empathetic kid,” she said. 

Jen Passafiume, the high school swimming coach, taught Mr. Monahan when he was a child in Chilmark, and then watched him grow into a strong athlete. 

“He was one of the favorite students I’ve had,” she said. 

Mr. Monahan was a member of the first Vineyard swim team to win a league championship, and was known for his breast stroke. About 10 swimmers from the boys and girls teams members swam with Mr. Monahan, and the team had a moment of silence for him at a recent practice. Their first meet in Sandwich is this weekend, the day Mr. Monahan would have turned 18, Ms. Passafiume said.

Ms. Dingledy said many students are grieving the deaths of Mr. Monahan and high school student Waylon Sauer last month. The school is planning to have counselors and other support groups available. 

“There are just so many kids feeling sad,” Ms. Dingledy said. “We’re trying to find ways to bring support in.”