This is a "GoFundMe" appeal on behalf of a good friend, Bob Pietrusiak. I have known Bob and his family for more than sixty years - all the way back to High School.

There was a major fire at Bob’s Aurora house on January 25. In the middle of the night, his son, Eric, woke him up as he was calling 911. In the rush to get out, Bob slipped on the floor in his bare feet and knelt on embers, resulting in 2nd. degree burns.

According to newspaper reports, the fire department arrived with four engine companies and three truck companies to find the three-story, wood-framed house totally on fire. “Firefighting efforts were complicated by cold temperatures, strong winds, and the size and layout of the House.”

Bob was taken to Mercy Hospital in Aurora, Illinois, where he was treated for wound care (burns) and rehabilitation. Days later, he moved to a sub-acute facility where he is currently making good progress. Eric should be congratulated for his quick thinking in responding to the fire.

In the fire, they literally lost everything – clothing, household items, electronics, VIP documents etc. While Bob figures out all the insurance and housing details, he and Eric need our immediate help.

For years, Bob and his wife, Cathy, lived and worked in the Aurora community. Their kindness, love, and sincerity have been felt by many. Upon Cathy’s death, Bob continued this outreach. We are now asking you to help Bob and Eric. Please consider contributing to this GoFundMe page and help with their immediate and future needs.