Celebration of Life for Dylan Taylor planned for May 18

Dylan Taylor’s family welcomes the community to join his Celebration of Life in the at 2:00 pm on Sunday, May 18 in the Sequoia Room at the Arrillaga Recreation Center, 700 Alma St., Menlo Park. His family ask for the community to consider donating to the Reikes Center in Dylan’s name in lieu of flowers.

From today’s Menlo Park City School District newsletter:

“Dylan was a staff member at MPCSD from November 2020 until October 2024, serving as a paraeducator for students with special needs. One thing everyone noticed about Dylan was how much he loved his job and how great we was at doing it. With a ready smile, he was encouraging, compassionate, and kind to every person. He always went the extra mile to make sure his students knew how special they are and strived to give them a sense of belonging.

“He became a friend to many colleagues, including Hillview PE teacher and athletic director Nick Fogel, who remembers, “Dylan’s work extends far beyond the classroom and playing field/court. He had an energy about him that was hard to not love and want to be a part of. Dylan loved to see people grow, overcome adversity, and was the biggest cheerleader at events, games, theatrical and musical performances, and any and all achievements.”

“Prior to joining the MPCSD staff team, Dylan grew up in the community and attended MPCSD schools. Superintendent Kristen Gracia, who was his teacher earlier in her career, said, “I had the pleasure of having Dylan as a first grade student in my class and then the privilege of seeing him thrive as an adult here in our community as a paraeducator, coach, and friend to so many people. Dylan will be incredibly missed and our community is heartbroken by his loss.” The enthusiasm and kindness Dylan exhibited as a child were characteristics he continued to embody and bring to his work with students.

“Beyond the classroom, Dylan was a beloved athletics coach for Hillview, Las Lomitas, and Menlo-Atherton High School, and he started a frisbee club that met Sunday evenings at Burgess Park. His warm and supportive nature made a lasting impact on the young athletes he coached, as he prioritized positivity and self worth when mentoring youth. Athletic Director Fogel continued, “He is THE most genuine and overall good person I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I feel lucky to call him a friend. He will be missed at Hillview forever.”

Dylan is pictured with a Hillview volleyball team, second from left in the back row; photo courtesy of Nick Fogel.

“The MA Chronicle also published a moving tribute to Dylan.”