Zachary Ian Riggs Panther, 17, of St. Edward, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 1, 2024, near St. Edward.

Zachary was born in the town of Kaitaia, New Zealand, on Sept. 25, 2006 to Justy Riggs Panther and Brad Panther. He came into the world five and a half years after his brother, Riley. Zach’s early life was full of family and traveling, food and adventures, taking him from New Zealand, to Albuquerque, NM, to California, then to Ekalaka, MT, and more. While Justy and Brad separated, Zach never lost touch with his heritage, visiting his father and birth town as often as possible. Our family’s love for traveling broadened Zach’s horizons and submerged him into multiple cultures, experiencing a zest for life that very few can claim.

Zachary always had the most incredible spirit of adventure and individualism — whatever he was doing, he wanted to do it himself. This naturally led to his developing as a person of incredibly strong character; persistent and determined, and yes, a little contrary. He found great joy in the simple pleasures in life, never turning down an opportunity to have a little fun. He carries with him many great personal achievements, such as graduating high school at just barely 17 years old, breaking every limb in his body, and managing to find a massive place in our hearts despite his extremely loud personality.

Zachary loved basketball, being especially proud of his height and wingspan, and using it frequently to obliterate his opponents - often his older brother. He played video games like it was a full time job, never missing an opportunity to smack talk. Perhaps his greatest joy was lifting weights with his friends. Zach was devoted to physical fitness, and was never afraid to work himself until he was sore, chasing the image of himself he wanted to mold his body into. He was a beautiful person, cherished son, loving brother and beloved nephew, and no words can truly describe the loss this world has experienced without him.

Some things we loved about Zach, that may provide a glimpse into the character of our cherished loved one: He was never in his own clothes. He loved to steal his brother’s clothes and squeeze into his mom’s shoes, whether to take out the trash or hit the town. He had a wicked sense of humor, with some of the most clever jokes any of us have ever heard. His infectious laughter filled rooms, and will leave our houses empty. He was a fierce friend to his classmates and his community. The people he chose to spend time with were truly blessed by his presence. He will always be remembered as profoundly insightful, caring, and kind to all he knew. He offered the best advice, granting inspiring words to those he talked to. We cannot count the number of times he offered a helping hand or comforting words.

We must also say that Zach, of all people, would have to go and leave on April Fool’s Day.

Zach is survived by his parents: Justy Riggs Panther of St. Edward, Bradley Panther of Kaitaia, New Zealand, brother Jacob Riley Riggs of St. Edward, grandparents: Janet Lutz of Albuquerque, NM, Carol and Ian Panther of New Zealand, aunts and uncles: Natalie (Rafael) Figueroa of Albuquerque, NM, Brett (Shawn) Riggs of Billings, MT, Cherie Panther of Auckland, Monique Charrington and Tamzin (Warren) Cook, all of New Zealand, as well as many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather Garry Riggs and aunt Shawn Laurette Riggs.

Funeral services were held Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the St. Edward Catholic Church with Deacon Harlan Long officiating.

Mmemorials are suggested to the family for a later designation. Miller-Levander Funeral Home of St. Edward was is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.levanderfuneralhome. com.