VALLEJO, California - Family, friends, and well-wishers packed St. Catherine’s of Siena to attend a memorial mass for Filipino-American Kevin Redrico.
Many knew Redrico as a member of the SanFran6, an a capella group that competed on NBC’s “The Sing-Off” in 2015.
Redrico, who was known at the Bay Area, went to college in Pleasant Hill, and transferred to San Jose State University.
His family said the outpouring of support from people who knew Redrico was helping them get through tough time.
“Seeing all those people that he affected positively uplifted us. These are the memories that will help us overcome,” said Redrico's father, Glenn.
The Redrico family also thanked sheriff K-9 units, California Highway Patrol, US coast guard, and many others who volunteered to look for Kevin.
“The very first night that we did the search and rescue people were coming out of the woodworks,” Redrico said. “People we didn’t know. And they were determined to bring him back home. It’s his persona. He has this gift in dealing with people.”
Redrico was reported missing April 5 and was found dead April 29.
According to Redrico’s obituary written by the family, he “passed away after a courageous battle with depression that ended peacefully on April 5, 2017.”
The Redrico family sent a message to all those who may be fighting this condition.
“For the people that are suffering from this very unique illness, I encourage them to reach out. Don’t stop reaching out. And for those people who have relatives or friends who are suffering from this, just listen. Let them talk. It goes a long way when you listen to these people.”
The Redricos planned to have Kevin’s body cremated, followed by what they called a “celebration of life” to coincide with what would have been Kevin’s 24th birthday.
In Redrico’s honor, Poison Apple Productions will establish the Kevin Redrico scholarship for vocal excellence. Poison Apple is a theatrical performance organization, in which Redrico served as a musical director.
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