Zakary Keith Niebrugge

End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it. — Gandalf

Our sweet boy, Zakary Keith Niebrugge, passed on April 9th, 2026, in Ogden, Utah. He was 24 years old. His death was sudden and accidental, and although his time here was far too short, his love, laughter, and presence in our hearts will live on. Zak was born in Layton, Utah, on June 13th, 2001. He was the son of Brian Keith Niebrugge and Michelle Elizabeth (Dawson) Niebrugge. He was the final piece to the Niebrugge family, welcomed and adored by his older sisters, Tobin and Kajay.

Zak lived in Ogden with his girlfriend of over two years, Gracie Boyett, and their two cats. He was a devoted uncle to his nephews, Oaken and Canyon Cutler, spending hours sharing his passion for video games and Spider-Man with his two favorite boys. Zak was surrounded by many loving uncles, aunts, and cousins. He truly enjoyed his time with all of them. Zak formed special friendships, and with a heart as big as his, childhood friends naturally became lifelong ones. Losing Zak is incredibly difficult for his family and friends, but we take comfort in knowing he is now embraced by his Grandma and Grandpa Dawson, as well as his cousins Brighton Niebrugge and Shadd Dawson.

When Zak was just two years old, he faced something most of us can’t imagine: retinoblastoma, cancer of the eye, leaving him with a prosthetic eye. That early fight didn’t define him, but it was a reminder of the strength he carried through his entire life.

Zak graduated from Bonneville High School in 2019 (thanks to the hard work and dedication of his mom). He grew up playing numerous sports, from football with the Terrace Titans to lacrosse at Bonneville High School. Zak enjoyed snowboarding and, at one time, worked as a snowboard instructor at the Snowbasin Resort in Huntsville. Zak had a love for video games and hanging out in the tree in the backyard. He was the ultimate fandom. He had an endless collection of merch, Legos, and other trinkets. In 2023, he bought one of his most prized possessions…his Subaru WRX. He was a hard worker and most recently worked as a Splicer at Spligitty Fiber Optic.

Zak was truly the baby of the family and had a special relationship with them all. He spent weekends working in the yard with his dad and having heartfelt conversations with his mom, whose guidance he often sought. Although he didn’t always have a choice, his sisters made sure he was hugged, loved, and looked after. He went on many family vacations. His most recent was a family trip to Disneyland, where he enjoyed coordinating outfits with his girlfriend, riding his favorite ride, Buzz Lightyear, with his nephews, and being immersed in the Star Wars universe with his dad. A cherished family tradition that began with the Dawson family was summer camping trips, where his time was spent hammocking, enjoying the outdoors, and laughing around the fire.

Zak was soft-spoken and stoic, often appearing to be a loner, while simultaneously being extremely tenderhearted and caring toward everyone around him.

Zak…You will be missed beyond measure each day, and your memory will remain in our hearts forever.

We love you, Bug.

A celebration of life open house will be held on Saturday, April 18th, 2026, between 1 PM and 3 PM at the South Ogden LDS Chapel located at 5735 Crestwood Dr, South Ogden, UT, 84405. Please join us to visit and share memories of Zak. 

Condolences may be sent care of Brian and Michelle Niebrugge at 6293 S 1575 E, Ogden, UT 84405.