Savela "Lived with Purpose"

Mira Costa Principal Jennifer Huynh, speaking at the memorial service, said that Savela was a "cherished member" of the Mira Costa community. "He brought light and energy into our school, touching his peers and teachers in ways we will never forget... We will carry forward his kind spirit and his lessons to us to take care of each other. Ford will forever be a part of who we are."

Several of Savela's teachers also spoke of his calm presence in the classroom and attentiveness to others. 

"He was a force for good - He had a heart as big as his work ethic," said Mira Costa social studies teacher Adam Geczi. "Ford lived with purpose, with generosity, and with a spirit that continues to live on."

Ken Brenan ("Mr. B"), Mira Costa's engineering teacher and esports coach, added, "He wasn't just an exceptional student. He was a beacon of hope for our future."

Brenan noted that the esports team's MVP trophy would be named the "Ford Savela MVP Award" in Savela's honor.

Savela, who had also served on Beach Cities Health District's Youth Advisory Council, had earned his Teen Mental Health First Aid Certification through allcove Beach Cities last summer.

Emory Chen, the director of youth services at Beach Cities Health District, said, "Ford's legacy is one of hope, strength, and change. He showed us that no matter how young you are, you have the power to make a difference."

Crab Legs and Corn on the Cob

Savela's friends also came to the front of the auditorium as a group to share poignant stories and cherished memories about their time with him. 

Lane Stoddard said that her favorite memory of him was from last Fourth of July, when their group of friends hung out at the beach and then went to Savela's house. Savela disappeared for several minutes, and after his friends were wondering where he went, he came back in the door with "one crab leg in his right hand, one crab leg in his left hand, and a corn cob in his mouth."

Stoddard said he explained that he had seen that a family down the street was having a barbecue, so he had gone to talk to them. "He was so friendly and so charming that of course these neighbors who he had never met were compelled to share their barbecue with them," she said. 

(Outside the celebration of life, friends write down memories of Savela to share with the family.)

Following the celebration of life, attendees were offered bowls of Savela's favorite snacks, including Uncrustables, Nerds, and Trader Joe's Takis.