A celebration of life took place in Duncan on Saturday for 12-year-old, Xavier Rasul-Jankovics, who died this week in a tragic car crash.
Families and friends of Rasul-Jankovics gathered at Queen Margaret's School in Duncan for the celebration of life.
"We lost a wise, wonderful soul who lit the lights of his family, his friends, and an extended community - all of whom are grieving an enormous loss," states GoFundMe organizer and close friend of the Rasul-Jankovics family, Rory Capern.
Capern says there's been "an outpouring of support from hundreds in his home in the Cowichan Valley and all around the world. The kitchen is bursting, and we are running out of flat surfaces for flowers."
Because of this, she started a GoFundMe to honour Xavier's spirit, and his "important impact in this world".
She adds that the Xavier Rasul-Jankovics Foundation will be directed by the family to support a series of initiatives in support of Xavier's spirit of positive community impact, including those that will protect families from having to endure such tragic loss in future."
As of Saturday, the page has raised close to $57,000, with a goal of reaching $150,000.
The tragic loss has impacted Vancouver Island's hockey community, with many speaking to Xavier's heart and character, both on and off the ice.
Vancouver Island's premier hockey development camp, RB Hockey Development, sent their condolences to the former player's family in an online post.
"We are heartbroken by the loss of Xavier. He was the definition of a great teammate, hardworking, selfless, and full of heart. His leadership and character left an impact far beyond the ice and his legacy will always live on through our program. We will miss you forever Xavier," states RB.
The Victoria Royals posted "We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Xavier Rasul-Jankovics. Our hearts go out to Xavier's family, the Kerry Park community, and anyone affected by this tragedy."
The Juan de Fuca Minor Hockey Association also sent its condolences, stating in an online post, "Xavier was more than just a player; he was a teammate, a friend, and a bright light on and off the ice. His passion for the game and the impact he had on those around him will never be forgotten.
We stand with our hockey family at Kerry Park during this incredibly difficult time. To honour Xavier, who wore #11, we invite everyone to post a photo of your stick out in tribute and use the hashtag #11KP. Let's flood the hockey world with kindness, love, and support.
Please tag @kerryparkminorhockey and use #11KP in your posts to show his family and community that they are not alone. Let this serve as a reminder to always be kind, lift each other up, and cherish every moment we share in this game we all love.