The family of a Chicago man is remembering his life after authorities in Mexico confirmed that he and his partner were among four people whose remains were discovered in a clandestine grave earlier this month.

According to reports, Zafar Padamsee Mawani and his partner, Guillermo Ortiz, were last seen on May 20 in Huixquilucan.

Authorities later recovered their remains on June 17 in the nearby municipality of Ocoyoacac. Mawani’s family confirmed the recovery.

According to investigators, several arrests were made during the search for the couple, and some of those taken into custody allegedly led authorities to the location where the remains were found.

In a statement shared with the media, Mawani’s family described him as someone who made others feel seen and valued through his kindness and genuine connections. They also said he was deeply devoted to his family, especially his mother.

According to family members, Mawani had traveled to Mexico to help care for his ailing mother. On the day he disappeared, he had reportedly gone to purchase a mobility lift for her. Investigators believe he and Ortiz had arranged to meet someone regarding the sale of a mobility device when they vanished.

Despite their grief, Mawani’s family said they remain committed to honoring his memory and continuing the compᴀssion and generosity that defined his life.

A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help establish a memorial plaque for Mawani and Ortiz at Scoville Park in Oak Park.

Authorities said the remains of two Kenyan nationals were also recovered from the same clandestine burial site.

Seven people have reportedly been arrested in connection with the deaths. Officials have not yet publicly announced the specific charges they may face, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Source: People