Kim Hess, manager of Lagunita Late Nite for the past seven years, died suddenly this past Saturday of an apparent heart attack at his San Jose home. From 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, Hess could be found at Lag Late Nite, serving students with a smile, cooking up delicious food for students and always working on new recipes. For many students who frequented Late Nite, Hess was a pivotal part of their Stanford experience. In the wake of Kim Hess’ passing, the Editorial Board would like to remind the student body of the integral role each University staff member plays in helping to make our community the place it is.

The Stanford community is in mourning following Hess’ passing. Several threads of e-mails on student lists have become a way for students to mourn, remember great conversations and pay their respects to Hess’ family. A group of students has also organized memorial cards posted at Late Nite, where students can pay their respects or write down fond memories of Hess. A Facebook post by Lagunita Late Nite regarding Hess’ unexpected passing has received 31 responses, with students recounting the great support Hess provided in the late hours of the night, how he helped students fight off homesickness, the pride he took in his kitchen and the personal affection he had for all his “kids.” Finally, residents of Lagunita are currently taking up donations for Hess’ family to help them in this difficult time.

It is truly powerful to see the Stanford community come together to remember and honor the life of a University employee who touched so many students’ lives. The Editorial Board encourages students to remember and appreciate every member of the Stanford community, including faculty, administrators and staff like Kim Hess. In their own ways, each of these groups helps make this campus what it is–our home. Within our busy student lives, sometimes we take for granted very important members of our community. Our time here at Stanford is short, but due to the simple yet powerful contributions of dedicated staff like the late Kim Hess, that short time is made all the more meaningful.