The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation announced the establishment of a new scholarship fund in memory of Dylan LaMere, a UW-Platteville senior who passed away in April.
"Dylan had a positive impact on all,” said Dylan’s mother, Brenda LaMere. “When he walked into a room people knew it. His bright smile and distinctive laugh were contagious. Dylan’s genuinely kind, helpful and positive soul exemplified who he was as a person. His hard work and determination were noted, whether on the football or lacrosse fields, within his academics, or at any of his numerous jobs. This scholarship is a way to carry on Dylan’s legacy as a Pioneer forever."
The Dylan LaMere Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to continuing mechanical engineering students who are Wisconsin residents with a GPA of at least 3.0. LaMere, who was planning to graduate in May, was a mechanical engineering major and is remembered fondly by his professors.
"Dylan was an excellent student,” said Dr. Bo Yu, assistant professor of mechanical engineering. “He was very helpful while working with teammates on their senior design project. He had brought different ideas to their design and communicated them to the rest of the team. He also took the leadership in his controls lab group and helped his group members with the challenging topics."
Lea Ljumanovic, lecturer of mechanical engineering, added that, “Dylan was a ray of sunshine in the classroom, and he will be missed by all who knew him.”
Nicknamed “Pickle,” LaMere is remembered as a good friend by many on campus.
“When I first came to Platteville, I didn’t know if I wanted to continue playing lacrosse,” said Collin Kerkhoff, a friend and fellow mechanical engineering classmate and lacrosse teammate of LaMere. “I wanted to focus more on my school and have a little fun. I went to see the team, and Pickle was there. We kicked it off really quickly and became good friends. He truly was the best friend anyone could ask for and a true genius. They say once you have been friends for seven years, then you’re friends for life, but with Pickle it was an instant connection from day one.”
To contribute to the Dylan LaMere Memorial Scholarship, visit https://justgiving.com/campaign/dylanlamere.