ATHENS, Ohio – The Ohio University community is trying to cope with the loss and rekindle the memories of three female students lost Sunday morning in a fire near the Ohio State campus.
Erin Demarco, 19, a sophomore in business and marketing from Canton, Ohio; Andrea Dennis, 20, a junior in journalism and advertising management from Cincinnati; and Christine Marie Wilson, 19, a sophomore in retail merchandising from Dublin, were the three Ohio University students who died in the fire at 64 E. 17th Ave.
The three were members of the Zeta Chapter of the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority at OU.
“While each unique sister will be deeply missed, we will always keep their memories and spirits alive in our hearts,” said Andrea Petzold, president of Alpha Gamma Delta at OU.
“The families and friends of the three women sincerely appreciate the loving support of the Ohio University community. All of our thoughts and prayers are with their families,” Petzold said.
These three women lost their lives tragically, but they left fond memories that those close to them will remember forever, she said.
Demarco’s parents commented on the recent events and memories of their daughter.
“We lost her tragically, but we had a beautiful life with her. She was a great student. She made the dean’s list every quarter except for one,” said Rita Demarco, mother of Erin Demarco.
“She loved her family and friends. She loved school, she loved where she was at and she was always trying to achieve more,” she said. “She was an outgoing, magnificent person.”
Friends said Wilson will also never be forgotten by the Ohio University community.
“Christine always had a cheery disposition and smile on her face. Her exuberance was contagious and was sure to brighten up anyone’s day,” Petzold said. “She was voted ‘best dressed’ of her pledge class, and she enjoyed keeping up with the latest styles. Her sincere ability to empathize with others was apparent in her everyday interactions and will be truly missed.”
Petzold also spoke fondly of Dennis.
“Andrea Dennis was one of the most active and charismatic members of the house. Despite her petite stature she had a giant heart and quick wit,” Petzold said. “Her unconditional love radiated continuously as she was always willing to lend an ear and share advice.”
Dennis was a leader of the recruitment team and looking forward to the upcoming recruitment, she said.
“Always enthusiastic, she kept the well being of the chapter and its members close to her heart,” Petzold said.
The university will do what it can to be supportive of the family and friends of the victims, including offering counseling services, said Terry Hogan, the dean of students at OU.
The university has already had counselors meeting with individuals, he said.
Students at OU are honoring the victims and showing support for family and friends as well.
“The house is full of flowers, and fraternities and sororities have been coming by the house to show their support,” said Sue Chiki, alumnae adviser to the Alpha Gamma Delta house.
An Alpha Gamma Delta memorial service is planned, but the date and time are not known yet, Chiki said.
