Friends and family of students, faculty and alumni that have died will be gathering to celebrate the lives of their loved ones at this years’ Laker Remembrance memorial.

Laker Traditions is hosting the annual event, which functions as a chance to honor and celebrate the lives and achievements of Lakers who passed away over the last year and a half.

The service will take place on April 13 at 7 p.m. in the Cook-DeWitt Center.

The event will begin with a remembrance service, where the late Lakers will be honored with poems and thoughts about their lives. The name of every lost Laker will be read and carnations will be given to their loved ones. Dean of Students Bart Merkle will also give a memorial speech.

The goal of Laker Remembrance is not to have a somber and mournful atmosphere, but rather be a celebration of the achievements and lives of the deceased.

“We’re really trying to shift the attitude of it being from something that’s so sad and somber to more of an uplifting look at all the great things they’ve done,” said Malayna Hasmanis, Laker Traditions coordinator.

Following the ceremony, a candlelight vigil will take place at the Cook Carillon Tower. Songs will be played on the bells of the tower during the gathering.

Friends and families can leave mementos of their loved ones on a memory tree, a tree made of metal, including photos or notes that remind them of the one they have lost.

The memory tree is being considered to become a permanent fixture inside of the Kirkhof Center.

Students are encouraged to attend, even if they may not know one of the deceased.

“I think it’s important for students, staff and faculty to go because it showcases support,” said Sean O’Melia, programming chair for Laker Traditions. “While you might not be going through that trauma, it’s always nice to have a friend there to show a lending hand.”

This is the first year that Laker Remembrance is an event on its own. Previously, it would be part of either homecoming or Laker Extravaganza.

“The reason we’re trying to make its own event now is just so we can really emphasize the celebration of all that they’ve contributed to our community,” Hasmanis said.

More information can be found at www.gvsu.edu/remember.