Daniel Nakajima Andover MA Suicide Death, Obituary – In a devastating loss, the community of Andover, Massachusetts, mourns the passing of 17-year-old Dan Nakajima, who tragically left us on Tuesday, September 26, 2017. Born on December 24, 1999, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Dan’s life, although brief, was marked by extraordinary achievements, joyful pursuits, and an impact that resonated with everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Dan spent much of his childhood in Brookline, where he discovered his passion for art at a young age. By just nine years old, he showcased his talent with a solo exhibition at the Lynn Museum Hartman Leigh Gallery. This early love for creativity seamlessly intertwined with other interests throughout his life, laying the foundation for the multitalented person he would become.
As a student at Shady Hill School, Dan formed many enduring friendships and made a significant impact on his peers. He eagerly shared his early interest in technology by engaging younger students in programming and contributed to the school’s inaugural “Day of Code.” His enthusiasm for learning and teaching was evident in everything he pursued.
In high school, Dan transitioned to Phillips Academy in Andover, where his diligence as a student stood out. He balanced his academic pursuits with a deep passion for basketball, often found playing pick-up games or perfecting his shooting technique between classes. Dan embraced the world around him with open arms, finding solace and joy in the rhythm of hip-hop and jazz music. His prowess on the piano was showcased in a heartfelt performance of Thelonious Monk at a school recital, demonstrating his diverse interests and talents.
A true connoisseur of food, Dan’s culinary explorations knew no bounds. He relished new dining experiences, from four-star restaurants to local food trucks, sharing his gastronomic adventures with friends through a stream of food photos. His culinary recommendations were eagerly sought after by family and friends, both near and far, making him the go-to source for the best local eats and noteworthy dining experiences during vacations.
Dan was not only an artist and foodie but also a builder. He channeled his intelligence and creativity into ambitious projects, such as designing and constructing a DC motor and a Doppler radar system. His passion for programming flourished as he collaborated with friends globally on various coding projects, exhibiting a fearless approach to overcoming technical challenges.
With summer internships focusing on software development and hardware prototyping under his belt, Dan aspired to pursue engineering. His love for teaching was evident in his work with children at the Boys and Girls Club in Lawrence, where he introduced coding concepts and fostered creativity in young learners. Dan’s engaging smile and gentle, playful spirit served to inspire and uplift those around him, and he will be remembered for his unwavering kindness.
Dan Nakajima is survived by his loving parents, David Perreault and Heidi Nakajima, who take comfort in the multitude of lives he touched during his short time with us. As we remember Dan, let us celebrate a remarkable young man whose passion for art, technology, music, and food brought joy to many. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who loved him and those he inspired, a reminder of the brilliance that resided within him.
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