On Jan. 17, 2025, the Hoban community gathered in Barry Gymnasium to celebrate the life of senior Alexander Lin, who passed away on Jan. 1. Alex was a beacon of light at Hoban, leaving a lasting impact through his academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to service. Doors opened at 5 p.m., allowing friends and family to come together in remembrance. At the entrance, Brother Dennis Bednarz distributed Mass programs and bracelets crafted by Alex’s Model United Nations Co-President, Erica Leslie. Upon the Lin family’s arrival, many offered their condolences and support. Members of both Hoban and Seton Catholic School, Alex’s alma mater, attended the service in a symbolic display of his profound and lasting influence on both communities.
A Celebration of Faith and Friendship
The Rev. G. David Bline, assisted by the Rev. Alex Susai, CSC, celebrated the remembrance Mass. Leslie and longtime friend James (Tad) Holzapfel served alongside them.
- First reading: Given by Math Club Co-President Mateo DeCola
- Petitions: Led by teacher Jenilia Kostko and Math Club Vice President Alexander Haran
- Gifts: Presented by Seton alumni Ryan Baxter and Kamran Ensley, along with Hoban classmate Owen Jackson
- Eucharist distribution: Conducted by Seton alumni Samuel Kosko and Gabriella Peinkofer, as well as Hoban classmates Sophia Davis and Kevin Elliott
Bline’s homily centered on the concept of 天堂 (Tiāntáng), the Chinese word for heaven, a place of eternal peace. He spoke of how Alex was his parents’ heaven on Earth, and while their loss is immeasurable, God’s grace will bring comfort. Hoban Principal T.K. Griffith delivered a heartfelt speech, honoring Alex’s contributions and presence within the Hoban community. He concluded with a poem, adapted to reflect Alex’s deep involvement at Hoban. Principal Catherine Perow then invited Alex’s parents, Li Wang and Yang Lin, to the stage, where they expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support shown for their son.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Alex embodied Hoban’s core values with every step he took. He was an academic leader and a compassionate servant, always striving to better himself and those around him. His achievements included:
- Senior Leader of Project HOPE
- Captain of the Academic Challenge team
- National Merit Commended Scholar
- Cross Country and Tennis team member
- Math Club Co-President
- Model United Nations Co-President
Inspired by his experiences with Project HOPE, Alex was accepted to Northwestern University, where he planned to major in Urban Sociology. His ultimate goal was to return to Akron and work to uplift marginalized communities.
A Prayer for Strength
Seton friends Samuel Kosko and Joseph Sanchez composed a prayer in remembrance of Alex:
“Dear Lord,
We ask and pray for You to send our strength and love to Your son, Alex, now seated at Your right hand. We pray for his family, that they know this community stands with them in their time of loss and grief. We pray that not just our class, but our entire school community, can help carry some of their burden. We have faith that Alex rests in eternal life and glory with You. We ask this in Your name, Amen.”
May God grant us all strength and peace during this difficult time. Alex’s light at The Castle will shine forever.
