Two Yarmouth families unite to grieve death, disappearance of loved ones

Kimberly Molton opens up about the challenges her family faces during the holiday season. Four years ago, tragedy struck when her cousin, 21-year-old Zach Lefave, went missing after a New Year’s gathering. With his birthday just two days away, the pain of his disappearance is still fresh for the family.

During this difficult time, Stacey Cook reached out to offer her support to the grieving family. Cook, who lost her son Colton to a senseless murder just months before Lefave’s disappearance, understands the anguish of not knowing the fate of a loved one. She recalls the agony of going 72 hours without any information about her son and the devastating impact it had on her. Cook emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth, even if it brings heartache, as it is better than the torment of uncertainty.

As the years have passed, the families of Zach Lefave and Colton Cook have found solace in coming together every January to commemorate their birthdays and lean on each other for strength. This annual tradition serves as a reminder that they are not alone in their grief and that there are others who understand their pain.

In the past, public events were organized to honor the memories of Zach and Colton and raise awareness about their cases. However, this year, the families have decided to have a private reunion on Saturday. Cook reflects on the comfort of sharing similar thoughts and feelings with someone who has walked a similar path, acknowledging that the support they provide each other is invaluable.

The RCMP continues to investigate Zach Lefave’s disappearance, as he was last seen walking along Highway 334 near Plymouth, N.S. Despite extensive efforts and collaborations with search and rescue teams, the case remains unsolved. Molton expresses frustration with the lack of progress in the investigation, citing the abundance of rumors in their small town and urging for more action to be taken.

In contrast, justice was served in Colton Cook’s case, with three men found guilty in his homicide. Robert Charles Rogers and Wayne Richard Crawford were convicted of second-degree murder, while Keith Arthur Siscoe Jr. was found guilty of being an accessory after the fact to murder. Although these convictions bring a sense of closure, Cook acknowledges that they cannot undo the pain of losing her son and missing out on the milestones he should have experienced.

Despite the ongoing grief, both Molton and Cook find comfort in each other’s support. They emphasize the importance of celebrating the lives of Zach and Colton, holding onto the memories that cannot be taken away. As they navigate the difficult journey of healing, their bond remains a source of strength and solidarity in the face of tragedy.