By DON McCORMACK - donmac@suite224.net
Sports Editor
—
While his family, friends, teammates and the entire Lakeside High School community are understandably mourning the loss of 2010 Lakeside graduate Joe Lathan, an opportunity to celebrate the life of the young man will be held Sunday night.
A candlelight memorial service will be conducted that night at 9:30 on the exact spot where Joe was seen by thousands less than a year ago — Lakeside Stadium, the beautiful home of the Dragons.
Lathan, 19, died after an incident at the Conneaut Harbor lighthouse, from which Lathan was diving Tuesday. The details surrounding the incident are still under investigation.
Second-year Dragons coach Bill Lipps believes it an opportunity for the entire Lakeside community to come together, both in shared mourning but also in celebration of the life of the young man, who was wearing No. 33 for the Green and Gold just eight months ago. His number will not be worn during the 2010 season.
“I have seen how our football team has leaned on each other,” he said. “So myself, along with (assistant coach) Tyler Wilber and members of my Goal Line Club are providing the people who knew Joe a chance to be together and reflect on what Joe meant to all of us a place to lean on each other.”
Lipps said Joe's family has agreed to be in attendance at the candlelight service.
“I spoke with Joe's mom and dad (Thursday) and they will be in attendance on Sunday night,” he said. “I have contacted Joe's pastor, Rev. Salters, who is affiliated with G.O. Ministries, and he will lead the service.”
The Dragons coach said while more details of the services will be ironed out today, one thing is a definite.
“We're all in a state of shock,” he admitted. “But anyone who knew Joe is invited to come celebrate his life. I have no doubt Joe would want us to celebrate how he lived. It's important that we keep Joe in our hearts.
“He will always be a Lakeside Dragon.”
