Over one hundred friends and family members of Conor Keely gathered in Summit Park Tuesday to share memories of the Hart graduate who touched the lives of many.

One day after his passing, the community came together to organize a candlelight vigil to “celebrate the life” of the 20-year-old killed on Highway 138 while passing a semi-truck.

“We are not here to mourn Conor’s death,” said Wendy Keely, his mother. “We are here to share the wonderful stories many of us here have with him.”

Friends and family shared their favorite memories — even going back to preschool. “Conor was my first ever friend,” one person in attendance shared. “Ever since the moment I first met him, I knew there was something special.”

Keely worked as an apprentice California Department of Water Resources since he was 19, a dream job according to his loved ones.

“A few weeks ago, we asked him how he was enjoying the job,” said one of his co-workers. “Conor responded ‘living the dream’ and I knew he really meant it”

The Hart graduate was also a member of the SCV Mountain Bike Team and an avid fan of the outdoors.

“Last night our (mountain bike) family lost an amazing coach, mentor but most of all a wonderful friend,” read one post the team on Facebook. “Rest In Peace, Conor Keely, you are going to be missed so much.”

Wendy Keely, Conor’s mother, warned of the dangers of driving reckless on the road, hoping other people can learn from this tragedy.

“I always told Conor to slow down and be careful,” said his mother. “He said ‘don’t worry I’ll be fine’ well he was fine — until he wasn’t”

The vigil came to an emotional end with a rendition of Conor’s favorite songs sang by the crowd, most of which knew every lyric.

“We lost a wonderful soul too soon, but I know you are shining bright from the stars above.”

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