The community of Fergus, Ontario, is mourning Zachary Robinson Cudmore, remembered by his family as a determined young man, a loyal friend, and a teammate who continued to embrace life while facing a serious illness.
Cudmore died on October 17, 2026, at the age of 25, according to his published obituary. His family shared the news with profound sadness while expressing pride in the way he approached the challenges of his final months.
Born on January 29, 2001, Zach was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in February 2026. During the months that followed, he balanced cancer treatment and rest with work, time with friends, and visits with his girlfriend, Blaire. His family’s tribute describes someone who remained determined to make the most of his time despite the demands of treatment.
Zach Cudmore’s Battle With Ewing Sarcoma
Zach’s family said he was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in February 2026. Ewing sarcoma is a rare cancer that affects bones or the soft tissues surrounding them and can require intensive treatment.
The months after his diagnosis brought difficult medical demands, but his family described how he continued to make room for the people and activities that mattered to him.
He balanced appointments and recovery with work and social time, returning to see Blaire and his friends whenever he felt able. His family’s tribute emphasized his determination to keep living as fully as possible during a challenging period.
Rather than defining his life solely by his illness, the family remembered his resilience, relationships, and willingness to keep moving forward.
Remembering Zach’s Time With the CW Celtics
Basketball was an important part of Zach’s life. He played for the CW Celtics and participated in high school sports, experiences that helped shape the team-oriented attitude his family described.
For Zach, being part of a team meant more than taking part in a game. His family remembered him as someone others could count on, reflecting the loyalty and commitment he brought to his friendships as well as his sporting life.
His connection with basketball also linked him to a wider community of teammates and friends. Those relationships remained meaningful during his cancer journey, when people around him showed up to offer support.
The team’s importance in Zach’s story reflects how sports can create lasting friendships and a sense of belonging that extends well beyond the court.
Friends and Family Supported Zach Throughout His Illness
Zach’s family highlighted the remarkable support he received from his friends during his illness. They described his circle of friends as a team that stood beside him throughout his cancer journey.
That support became an important part of the family’s remembrance, illustrating the strength of the relationships Zach had built over the years.
He is survived by his parents, Blake and Wendy Cudmore, and his sister, Nicole Cudmore. His grandparents include Bob and Madeline Allen and Carl and Bev Cudmore.
His extended family includes his aunts and uncles, Karen and AJ Sparkes and Blair and Lorna Cudmore, along with his cousins Gwen, Lauren, Emily, and Megan.
Zach also leaves behind his girlfriend, Blaire French, whom the family described with affection in the obituary.
Together, these relationships form an important part of the legacy remembered by those closest to him.
Celebration of Life for Zach Cudmore
A celebration of Zach’s life is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, at McLean’s BGB, located at 6417 Second Line in Fergus, Ontario.
The published notice states that formal remarks will begin at 4:30 p.m., with a reception to follow. The family has encouraged attendees to wear comfortable shoes and casual clothing in keeping with Zach’s style.
The gathering will give family members, friends, former teammates, and others who knew him an opportunity to remember his life and share their memories.
Those planning to attend should consult the funeral home’s notice for the latest arrangements.
Memorial Donations in Zach’s Honour
In place of flowers, the family has identified Team Addy, which supports sarcoma research fundraising, and the Waterloo Regional Health Network Foundation as organizations for memorial donations.
The donation choices offer people who wish to honour Zach an opportunity to support causes connected to research and healthcare.
The obituary also reflects the importance of community support during difficult times, both for people facing serious illness and for the families and friends who stand beside them.
Remembering Zachary Robinson Cudmore
Zach Cudmore’s story is one of basketball, friendship, family, and determination in the face of a serious diagnosis. At 25, he was remembered not only for his connection to the CW Celtics but also for the relationships he maintained and the effort he made to continue living fully during treatment.
His family’s tribute portrays a young man whose team spirit extended beyond sports, someone his friends could rely on and whose loved ones took pride in the way he faced adversity.
As Fergus remembers Zach, his family’s words offer a personal glimpse into the life he lived and the people who remained close to him throughout his final months.
His memory will continue through his family, Blaire, his friends, former teammates, and the wider community touched by his life.
Obituary source: The published obituary for Zachary Robinson Cudmore, with arrangements entrusted to Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the published obituary and family tribute. Details about Zach’s life, diagnosis, survivors, and celebration of life are drawn from that notice.