A special place to remember

Ava and Isabella. Picture supplied

Tara Murray

Isabella and Ava will always have a special spot to remember their father, Peter Zappia, after the Diamond Hills Preschool unveiled a memorial plaque in his honour.

Mr Zappia died 12 months ago at the age of 40 due to a genetic heart condition, leaving behind his wife Rebecca and daughters Isabella and Ava.

The preschool unveiled the memorial plaque on November 11, the anniversary of Mr Zappia’s death,

Mrs Zappia said the gesture was humbling.

Isabella and Ava have attended the preschool for the past five years and the family lives in nearby Mill Park Lakes.

A little ceremony to unveil the plaque was held with the staff, committee and close friends in attendance, much to the surprise of Mrs Zappia.

“It’s overwhelming,” she said.

“The kinder has always been a really special place for our family and we’ve been there five years and the staff have become family.

“They were really supportive when he was in and out of hospital last year. It will always be a special place with something always there for us.”

Mrs Zappia said her husband was always at every event at the preschool and supported her in her role on the committee.

She described Peter, who was born in the United Kingdom, as the life of the party and someone who cared about others.

He donated his organs, helping to save three people’s lives.

“He was all about fun, living life and enjoying life and loved his family and friends,” Mrs Zappia said.

“He was so strong and brave considering what he went through. He’s our superhero.”

Tara Murray