On Friday, July 9th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve honored the life of one of their own, colleague Killian James Azueta, who unfortunately passed away in 2020. The marine reserve management held a special memorial in the presence of Killian’s family and friends ending the event with the launch of a patrol boat named ‘Gordo’ in memory of Hol Chan’s former park ranger.
The boat will bear a placard with Killian’s picture. The Hol Chan group believes this is a way to keep him sailing as Killian was a lover of the sea, his daughter, family, friends, and community.
Hol Chan’s Chairman Ian Pou gave the welcome remarks opening the special event. Pou noted that it took days of preparation, and to finally hold the event was a testament of kindness they share with everyone. “We welcome the Azueta family and friends and thank them for allowing us to make this recognition,” Pou said.
The formal part of the memorial saw Hol Chan’s Technical Manager Kirah Foreman, former Hol Chan’s Executive Director Miguel Alamilla, and Area Representative for Belize Rural South, the Honourable Andre Perez, sharing memories of Killian. Foreman described him as someone very outgoing, always willing to go the extra mile and a young man with a good sense of humor. Alamilla said Killian was a special ranger, colleague, and friend. The fallen ranger was also said to be cautious, dedicated, and very optimistic about the work Hol Chan carried out.
Perez remembered Killian as a responsible and optimistic person. He said that the former Hol Chan ranger was concerned about his shift when he was admitted to the hospital, a day before he passed away. He loved his job and loved being out at sea. Perez said that Killian’s legacy would continue because he did well while serving his community.
Perez then invited the Azueta family to the podium, where they were presented with the boat in honor of their beloved Killian. Perez popped open a bottle of champagne and poured some of it on the boat. Killian’s father, Claudio Azueta, thanked the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and everyone involved in making the event possible. Azueta appreciated the gesture as an early celebration for Killian’s upcoming birthday, which is on Sunday, July 11th.
On February 14, 2014, Killian and Yanira Palacios were married in San Pedro Town. The couple had a daughter, who he dearly loved.
Following the different presentations, refreshments and snacks were served.
