In Loving Memory of Elias Kim

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of FreshLens student, Elias Kim. Elias was a true shining star in our program. He took every class we offered, showed unwavering dedication, and brought a deep passion for photography to every space he entered. His creativity, kindness, and bright spirit made a lasting impact on our community, and we are heartbroken by this loss.

To honor Elias’s memory, his family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to FreshLens Chicago. Your support will help continue the work that inspired Elias and allow his love for photography to live on through future students.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his light.

A memorial service will be held in his honor. Please stay tuned for details coming soon.

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A Message from Elias’ Parents, Jim & Stacy

Elias Kim passed away Thursday night after succumbing to injuries sustained in a terrible car wreck. He was driving home alone on Lake Shore Drive, way too fast, and would tempt fate one last time.

Just a couple things about Elias.. yeah, yeah, yeah he was smart… straight A’s blah blah… but this kid had taste, impeccable taste. He had an eye for design and beauty in the world around him. He went deep into photography and last few years it seemed like his doorway into a life of creative expression. Stacy and I were so excited to see where his artistic sensibilities would take him.

Second, and I think more remarkable about Eli, was his pure sense of will to become whoever and whatever he wanted to be. One hot summer he decided he wanted to be a soccer player, so he spent every day in the park working on his skills until he became a darn good soccer player. Later, he wanted to learn how to fight, so he got himself to a boxing gym week after week after week… I felt bad for the coach’s son who was put in the ring with him as his sparring partner. And then he wanted to become a skateboarder, and that’s where he found his people, his community.

This kid always put in the work. He knew where he wanted to get to and he wasn’t afraid of the effort. He loved the work and was blessed with talent.

Rest in peace, Eli.