Kris Von Dopek’s Memorial Fundraiser
Donation protected
On Wednesday, February 27, 2019, Krzysztof Von Dopek courageously lost his long-fought battle with cancer, at the young age of 37. Kris, an only child of Jan and Grace Dopek, was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in early 2016. After successful treatment in Boston, Kris returned home to Chicago in mid-2016 under close observation, but unfortunately symptoms re-appeared in late-2018. Kris was re-diagnosed with cancer in January 2019, which rapidly spread. This campaign is being created to help reimburse Kris’ parents for the insurmountable costs associated with Kris’ cancer treatment, and to memorialize Kris in the most loving and fitting way. Losing a child is something that no parent can prepare for, and no parent should have to face. All proceeds will first benefit the incurred medical expenses and memorial costs, with remaining funds being directly contributed to WickerICE, a community-funded outdoor ice-skating rink in Chicago’s Wicker Park.
For those who have never been honored to have met Kris, he was a gentle giant. Standing at 6’7”, Kris had a humble demeanor, and welcomed everyone with an open heart, goodwill, and compassion. Kris had a gentle and selfless approach to life, and his altruism was genuine and sincere – offering help to those in need, whenever possible.
Kris was a staple in Chicago’s food and beverage scene, having worked at numerous restaurants and cocktail lounges where he quickly became known for his imaginative and traditionally-inspired cocktails. In Kris’ final years, he was honored to have served as Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador for William Grant & Sons, and as Macallan Brand Ambassador for Edrington.
Always active in local charity events, Kris most notably played a key role in assisting with the foundation of WickerICE, which hosts numerous events, including skate classes for children and young adults. Other charitable organizations that Kris was a part of were Toys for Tots, One Warm Coat, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Kris was an avid hockey player, and he had an unmatched adoration for his beloved Chicago Blackhawks. Fittingly, on the day of Kris’ passing, the Chicago Blackhawks honored Kris with a memorial announcement during the telecast of that evening’s game.
A frequent traveler, Kris was fluent in many languages, including English, Polish, and German. One of Kris’ last wishes was to visit Nepal, but in the end, Kris was unable to make that journey.
The love, strength, and courage that Kris displayed during his relentless fight is something that will live on forever.
Become part of Kris’ legacy by donating whatever you can afford - no donation is too small. We encourage you to share this GoFundMe campaign with friends and family, and across all social media platforms.
https://www.gofundme.com/6y9gtlc
Thank you for your love and support!
For those who have never been honored to have met Kris, he was a gentle giant. Standing at 6’7”, Kris had a humble demeanor, and welcomed everyone with an open heart, goodwill, and compassion. Kris had a gentle and selfless approach to life, and his altruism was genuine and sincere – offering help to those in need, whenever possible.
Kris was a staple in Chicago’s food and beverage scene, having worked at numerous restaurants and cocktail lounges where he quickly became known for his imaginative and traditionally-inspired cocktails. In Kris’ final years, he was honored to have served as Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador for William Grant & Sons, and as Macallan Brand Ambassador for Edrington.
Always active in local charity events, Kris most notably played a key role in assisting with the foundation of WickerICE, which hosts numerous events, including skate classes for children and young adults. Other charitable organizations that Kris was a part of were Toys for Tots, One Warm Coat, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Kris was an avid hockey player, and he had an unmatched adoration for his beloved Chicago Blackhawks. Fittingly, on the day of Kris’ passing, the Chicago Blackhawks honored Kris with a memorial announcement during the telecast of that evening’s game.
A frequent traveler, Kris was fluent in many languages, including English, Polish, and German. One of Kris’ last wishes was to visit Nepal, but in the end, Kris was unable to make that journey.
The love, strength, and courage that Kris displayed during his relentless fight is something that will live on forever.
Become part of Kris’ legacy by donating whatever you can afford - no donation is too small. We encourage you to share this GoFundMe campaign with friends and family, and across all social media platforms.
https://www.gofundme.com/6y9gtlc
Thank you for your love and support!
Organizer and beneficiary
Eric Hay
Organizer
Riverside, IL
Grazyna Dopek
Beneficiary
