Family and friends said goodbye to Mauricio Michilena at his funeral in Mount Kisco by remembering his life.

Michilena was only 20 years old when he died, but friends say he lived an accomplished life. Immigrating from Ecuador at the age of 12, friends say he worked hard to learn English and was so proud of himself when he graduated high school.

On Tuesday Michilena drowned in Blue Heron Lake while kayaking with a group of friends. Police say the kayak flipped over and while the other people were able to get to shore, Michilena was not. Police believe alcohol may have played a role, but tests have not yet determined if that was the case.

Friends of Michilena are asking the public to help the family with funeral expenses.

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