Support for Michael’s family

Early on December 28, 2021 our beloved Michael (Mike) Troy VandenBrink died suddenly. He was rushed to hospital by ambulance the evening of Monday December 27, 2021. Mike injured his ankle in a fall from a truss at work on December 22, 2021 and had unknowingly developed a severe streptococcal infection. At home, tended by his family Monday evening, Mike had grown lethargic and they immediately called EMS when he lost consciousness and stopped breathing. Mike’s son Seth courageously administered CPR while waiting for emergency responders, who worked hard to resuscitate Mike and were able to restart his heart before transporting him to the Misericordia Community Hospital. In the ICU doctors and nurses placed Mike on life support and laboured to stabilize his condition through the night. Unfortunately, he had developed blood clots, which resulted in a cascade of organ failure and eventually his body gave out. Mike’s condition deteriorated incredibly quickly, and he died surrounded by his loving family who encouraged him to go to his rest.

 

Mike was a loyal partner, proud father, and devoted son and brother. In many ways his life was very hard, but Mike was a strong and brave man, he possessed a fierce attitude and determined spirit, and never quit working to create a good life for himself and his family. Mike was the hardest worker, knew no rest, never had a vacation, and was always committed to his family, who made him so proud. Mike worked every day of his life to make his way and look after his family. His family describe him as “the most amazing man, amazing to everyone he interacted with” and “a special soul and anyone who got to know him and interact with him was so lucky.” Mike was a talented carpenter and gifted athlete who especially loved to ski. In Mike’s absence Kyla, Seth, Zoey and Xavier will need the support of their family and friends.

 

Mike was the income earner for his family, who are now suffering from shock and scared about what lies ahead. Please pray for strength for them and donate if you can. There is little we can do but lighten the financial burden some, to help them shoulder the unexpected costs of his memorial, cremation, and navigating this difficult time of shock and grief. As their family and friends we offer our prayers and financial help as they take the first steps into their life without Mike.

 

**As per GoFundMe guidelines**

All proceeds will go to Miriam, sister of Mike, as administrator of this fundraising campaign.