Funeral Services for Heather Boyum
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"She was doing something she loved when she was taken from us."
Family, friends and colleagues gathered at St. John of Rochester Church in Fairport to remember Heather Boyum as a wife, a mother, a friend, an accomplished athlete and an educator.
The 40-year-old science teacher from Fairport High School was killed while riding her bicycle on Route 250 early Sunday morning.
"She was put on this earth to teach biology and she was lucky enough to be doing that, and we just all loved her," said Cindy Dankert, a former co-worker.
That love was felt during the funeral service, where Reverend Peter Clifford reached out to the two young children who lost their mother. He told the seven- and four-year-old that no matter where they go, their mother would always be with them.
"I wanted for a moment as best I could to try to connect with them and to give them a little something, that's what I tried to do, give them a little something that they could take from their mom's funeral," said Rev. Clifford, St. John's of Rochester.
During the funeral service, childhood friends and former students remembered Heather as someone who had a real passion for life, a love for her family and friends and a smile they will miss, but never forget.
"There wasn't a day in the classroom that she didn't have a smile on, no matter like how tough her life was, she was always smiling," said Ashley Timmons, student.
Heather's passion for teaching went well beyond the classroom microscope and exams.
"She would do anything to help you succeed. She would take her lunch breaks to help me get ahead," said Ryan Ruscio, student.
A role model and inspiration for her students, Heather Boyum touched the lives of many people.
"She was just a lovely, wonderful person, and we miss her so much."