KEY WEST, Fla. — On Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021, beloved son and brother Asa Shlansky died at the age of 19. Asa was born on April 7, 2002, in Middlebury, Vt., and spent many happy years with his family in Ferrisburgh, Vt., and Key West, Fla. He graduated from Somerset Island Prep in Key West, Fla., as valedictorian in May 2021, receiving both his high school diploma and an associate degree, summa cum laude, from Doral College. He was set to attend Boston University in September.

Asa had passions for nature and animals. He loved to spend time outdoors, especially hiking in New York, Vermont, Maine, New Mexico, and Colorado, and basking in the environs of Key West. He volunteered his time at the Addison County Humane Society and loved walking and playing with the shelter’s dogs.

Asa enjoyed his Vermont and Florida homes. In Vermont, he loved to ski and swim in local swimming holes. In Key West, he cherished riding his bike, walks on the island, and time with family and friends on the beaches and in the ocean. Asa and his family could not walk far without running into Asa’s friends.

Asa moved people with his empathy, kindness, and sincerity. He was beautiful and keenly intelligent. Immensely loyal to his family and friends, he was curious, full of sharp insights, and had a sweet disposition. He was deeply loving and adored by his family.

Asa is survived by his sister, Beatrice; father, David; mother, Ting; two silly, trusty dogs, Ernest and Chester; and an extended family located throughout the U.S. His family will love and miss him eternally.

A memorial service will be held in Ferrisburgh on Aug. 22 to celebrate his life. If you would like to attend in-person or remotely, please contact his sister, Beatrice, at [email protected] by Aug. 18. In lieu of flowers or gifts, his family asks that you consider donating to the Addison County Humane Society.◊