'He was just a child': Friends, family gather to remember boy who died tragically on Algonquin school trip

On a warm Friday evening outside the high school where Jeremiah Perry was a student, fellow classmates and teachers joined the 15-year-old's family to remember the boy they say was the "light" of their family.

"He was just a child," said his aunt Jocelyn Anderson, who led the candlelight vigil as a song written by one of the boy's cousins played in the background.

Jeremiah died on July 4th after slipping under the water at Big Trout Lake in Algonquin Park while out swimming with classmates from C.W. Jefferys Collegiate Institute. When he didn't resurface, staff called police, according to the Toronto District School Board.

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And while his loss has left his entire family reeling, it's been especially devastating for his 17-year-old brother, who was also on the trip when Jeremiah was pulled from the water.

'They were the only two of a kind'

"They were the only two of a kind, so he's lost his pea in the pod so to speak," Anderson told reporters after the ceremony. "It's a very, very difficult time As you can see we can barely get through this evening."

Jeremiah, said Anderson, could be shy at times. It took time for him to come out of his shell. But the number of those in attendance at Friday's ceremony was a testament to just how big an effect he had on those he met in his brief time, Anderson said.

Jeremiah's Grade 9 science teacher Mr.AbdulShakurwas one those present Friday evening.The last time he saw Jeremiah was when he came to check his marks near the end of the school year.

Not only had Jeremiah passed, he was the most improved student in the class,Shakursaid.

"He was so happy and elated. And he gave me one of the biggest bear hugs," recalled the teacher, who shared the boy's Guyanesebackground.

Also in attendance was Jeremiah's farther,Joshua Anderson, who told CBCTorontoahead of the vigil that the boy did not know how to swim.

The school board has said repeatedly that every student who went on the camping trip was required to pass a swim test. Anderson, however, told CBC Toronto thathe didn't know if his son had done so.

Board reviewing its practices

In a statement Thursday, theTDSBsaid it is now interviewing those who conducted swim tests along withthose on the trip and those who authorized it.

"At the same time, I have instructed staff to immediately review our practices and procedures with regards to excursions particularly those that involve 'high care' activities such as swimming and canoeing,"TDSBdirector JohnMalloysaid in a statement.

The Ontario Provincial Police service and the Office of the Chief Coroner are also investigating.

Meanwhile,aGoFundMepagehas been set up to raise money for Jeremiah's funeral and any additional expenses that arise.

"Jeremiah was an amazing young adult who brought laughter and love to his friends and family. He [was] a compassionate and loving son who cared deeply for his family and friends. He was hardworking, had an outgoing personality," the page reads. "Jeremiah will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts."

Meanwhile theTDSBhas said it ishelping Jeremiah's family with costs for his funeral, which will be held Monday.