James Patrick Zak ’97

James Patrick Zak ’97 died unexpectedly at his home in Buffalo, New York, on January 28, 2015, the College recently learned. Born on March 15, 1975, Jim left his native Buffalo to attend Dartmouth, where he majored in environmental and evolutionary biology. He was active in crew, cycling club, the Ledyard Canoe Club, and Camera Club. Jim also was a member of the coeducational undergraduate society Panarchy. Classmates said Jim had “such a wonderful smile” and described him as “generous” and “always fun to be around.” Will Taylor ’97, Jim’s freshman and sophomore lightweight crew teammate, described Jim as someone who embraced life: “I remember Jim sneaking out at night while we were in Georgia for a week for spring training, to paint ‘Dartmouth Crew’ on a massive bridge. That daring was evident in the way he competed. He was confident, fearless, and inspired people. He was also thoughtful, kind, and capable of deep sincerity.” Jim was survived by his companion, Amanda Lombardo; father James and his wife, Theresa; siblings Joshua and Alisa; niece Sophia; and nephews Rocco and Bruno.