This story has been updated with information on a candlelight vigil on campus and the memorial service.

Mustangs are mourning the loss of senior Soren Roeseler who passed away Friday, April 5, in a motorcycle accident on Highway 141 in Fenton.

Roeseler’s family has planned a candlelight vigil to be held at the fire pit on campus at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 17.

“All are welcome to join family and friends for a candlelight vigil to celebrate the life and memory of Soren Roeseler, Class of 2024,” read an announcement the Marquette Parent Organization shared on social media.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the Second Baptist Church in Richmond Heights, 9030 Clayton Rd, St. Louis, Missouri, 63117. The family has asked that those in attendance, “wear bright colors or something that would make him smile.”

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to a charity of one’s choice in Roeseler’s name or made to a park bench fund Roeseler’s dad, Scott Roeseler, organized. The bench is to be located at Elephant Rocks State Park.

“Soren was there with some great friends a few short weeks ago, and he came home absolutely beaming,” his dad wrote on the Go Fund Me page. “He has always loved being outdoors, and he especially loved that sunny day full of laughter, ‘Lord of the Rings,’ and squeezing himself into small spaces.”

Any extra funds will go toward planting additional trees at the Forest 44 Conservation Area, New Ballwin Park, Bluebird Park and Castlewood State Park.

Laura Marie Coverstone, language arts teacher, said Roeseler was an honest, polite and witty student.

“His contributions in class made discussions richer and minds more open,” Coverstone said. “He was a good ‘lad,’ a good and kind human, and he certainly will be missed.”

Coverstone said Roeseler made the best and largest chocolate chip cookies. She said he wore combat boots and a ponytail to school.

“I don’t think he owned a shirt with sleeves, but he always sported a smile,” Coverstone said. “He had an impressive vocabulary and loved a good debate.” 

During Senior Sunrise this morning, students gathered around Roeseler’s parking spot to celebrate his life.

Friends of Roeseler said he was the most selfless and inclusive person they knew. He often bought thoughtful gifts for his friends and family and brought outsiders into their friend groups. 

They said he worked hard to fuel his hobbies including making knives, rings and swords as a blacksmith. Roeseler was also interested in motorcycles and cars. He worked at St. Louis Bread Co. to help pay for his hobbies. 

Roeseler’s favorite Sci-Fi books were from the “The Expanse” series and he loved the video game series “Dark Souls” and “Elden Ring.” He was highly anticipating the “Shadows of the Erdtree,” a culmination of his interest in blacksmithing, medieval fantasy and video gaming.

Senior Principal Amy Sturges said Roeseler’s passing is another shock to the Senior Class.

“This Senior Class has been through more tragedy than some people have in a lifetime,” Sturges said. “This is another thing we will build together and be there for each other.”

Sturges said grief often comes in waves, and she recommends students check on their peers. The counselors, social workers and social-emotional specialists will be available this week to meet with students.

Principal Dr. Tracey Waeckerle sent a message to the MHS community over the weekend.

“I fully understand that this news will be difficult for so many in our community,” Dr. Waeckerle wrote. “The most important thing I want our students, staff and community to know is that we are here for you. We’ll do everything possible to continue supporting those around us in the coming days.”