Published April 30, 2021
MELROSE—Melrose Public Schools and the larger community are mourning the loss of 17-year old Grace Zinck of Melrose, who passed away at home on Friday, April 23.
“Amazing Grace,” as she was affectionately known, touched the hearts of thousands, not the least her parents, Brian and Cathy Zinck of Melrose and her siblings Brendan and Audrey. Grace was born with Trisomy-18, and her parents were told she would not live long after birth, but in her 17 years, Grace managed to defy odds, embarking in sports, travel, family and friend celebrations and educational milestones.
Grace helped spearhead The Amazing Grace Golf Tourney, which in 14 years raised over $200,000 for charity. Beneficiaries of their goodwill included EMARC, the Melrose Education Foundation, and organizations supporting people with special needs. The popular golf tourney drew hundreds each October at Mt Hood. Grace was a valued member of the Melrose High School Unified Basketball team. She was also a noted Special Olympian and honorary member of the Tufts University girls lacrosse team. Not just an athlete, she was beauty queen, crowned Ms. Amazing Massachusetts Jr. Teen in 2017.
Grace, a Roosevelt School alum, was a beloved member of the MHS freshman class. On Sunday, Melrose High Principal Jason Merrill notified students and staff in an email that read in part, “Grace was an amazing ninth grader at Melrose High School. Whether you have known Grace for 17 years or just the past few months, I am confident that you have all come to know her beautiful personality and her ability to lift your spirits.”
Grief counselors were on hand at the school for staff and students.
For more, see our Obituary pages.
