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In the eyes of his family, North Park resident Homero Zapata was a success in every way a loving husband, father and grandfather and a hard-working, self-reliant businessman who never let anyone else pick up the check. But after he died from COVID-19 on Feb. 6, the Zapata family created a GoFundMe page in his memory.
The family’s humble fundraising goal was just $1,000 because daughters Brenda and Lizette Zapata say raising donations was never the primary reason for launching the page. Like many grieving local families, the Zapatas are using their page, titled “In great honor of our father Homero Zapata,” to share photos, stories, memories and eulogies of their loved one during a time when the pandemic has prohibited large funeral gatherings.
Jayme Mejia’s passion inspired his son, Robert Mejia, to start his own music and film company.
“He was just really loving,” said Robert Mejia. “He just made sure that all eight of us had the best father.
Jayme Mejia was born and raised in San Diego and worked in construction to support his family. While his children celebrate his accomplishments, they are also mourning.
In December, Jayme Mejia tested positive for COVID-19.
“Everything was fine for about nine days, then he starts breathing really heavy,” said Robert Mejia.
Jayme Mejia was rushed to the hospital after suffering breathing problems and was quickly put on a ventilator. His family says Jayme suffered from diabetes.