AMESBURY, Mass.—Zachary (Zach) Ian Piechocki, 28, a long-time resident of Amesbury, died unexpectedly on April 22.

Born in Newburyport, Mass., on May 30, 1992, he was the loving son of Donna and Keith Piechocki of Amesbury, Mass.; brother of Nathan Piechocki and his wife Amanda and their two children Liliana and Ryan, of East Hampstead, N.H.; and best friend and confidant of Kyle Ballard of Kingston, N.H.

Dedicated, loving and loyal to family and friends, Zach had a huge heart—always looking out for the underdog, readily giving the shirt off his back to those in need.

Zach was a gentleman, polite and eager to help others. It was common to find him pushing a senior citizen's shopping cart, ultimately loading the groceries into their vehicles.

Upon entering a room, Zach filled it. Tall with broad shoulders and bright auburn hair, he greeted you with a smile and I'll-take-a-hug-now request.

A self-taught horticulturist, Zach enjoyed farming and gardening. There was nothing polite about his tomato plants, which often took over plant beds; some grew 10+ feet tall. A close cousin expressed it this way, "Zach was super obsessed with his tomato plants," knowing he'd built an elaborate feeding and hydration station for them. He was driven, perhaps compulsive, to understand the science behind why some plants thrive and others don't. He spent endless hours tending his plants, wanting to understand how to improve plant growth through the interaction of air, light, nutrients, soil, temperature and water.

Zach loved the outdoors and spent many weekends hiking with his parents in New Hampshire's White Mountains. He was preparing to take a wilderness first aid course in preparation for becoming a wilderness guide, helping others to safely experience nature's nurturing. His goal, alongside his parents, was to hike all 48 of New Hampshire's 4000 footers.

It's likely Zach's love for nature began when he was a young boy. His family and close friends spent weekends alpine skiing. A natural at the sport, he gracefully maneuvered down the mountain, jumping off a mogul or two and spinning around at leisure, while his parents looked on with loving amazement.

Zach had love for many; however, the depth of joy he experienced while spending time with his niece Liliana and nephew Ryan held no bounds. He often felt understood while in the company of children. Zach also had deep compassion for animals, especially cats, having two of his own, Rocky and Baby Kitty. Most nights, Baby Kitty would boss Zach around. In cat speak the command was, Hey, it's time for bed. Get upstairs and pet me. Zach typically obliged.

One of Zach's proudest accomplishments was learning to frame houses. The idea of building a home for someone gave him purpose.

Years earlier, Zach attended the Amesbury school system and also spent time at barber school. Select family members sought him out for a close shave and bald fade haircut. Of course, the service was always accompanied by Zach's philosophical banter, with those closest to him appreciating his raw and real feedback, void of sugar coating. He excelled as a conversationalist.

Zach had a silly side. He enjoyed making others laugh by using funny words, such as "chicken butt," which was always followed by an outburst of laughter. Zach was also a dreamer, repeatedly drumming up entrepreneurial ideas like his lawn maintenance business that never quite got off the ground.

Our hearts are broken alongside our gratitude for having known such a beautiful soul. There are no words to express the enduring grief caused by the loss of Zach. He will be dearly missed by his grandfather and aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

In support of Zach's devotion to cats and in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, 63 Elm Street, Salisbury, MA 01952.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.   Arrangements are under the direction of Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home, 116 Main St., Plaistow, NH 03865.  Please visit the guestbook to send a message of condolence to the family or to share a cherished memory.