Help support Julia and the girls

We are devastated by the sudden death of Michael Verdouw, who collapsed from a heart attack on Tuesday 24th August.

Michael has been a dear friend to so many people, pouring out his life for others. His home and table is a place of warmth and hospitality. His passion for architecture has shaped our city. His generosity, loyalty, faith and authenticity has impacted the lives of hundreds of people, and we are all struggling to come to terms with his passing.

Our hearts go out to Michael’s wife Julia and their three daughters, Aja, Mimi and Lexi. The family is understandably overwhelmed with grief and seeking to process this tragedy. It will take some time for them to reimagine and remake their lives without Michael’s companionship.

We opened this campaign because Julia and the girls were left in a financially challenging position. We were aiming to raise enough money to pay for funeral costs, unexpected expenses, and to help replace Michael’s wage for a year.  

And what an unbelievable response we received. In just 10 days, more than 300 individuals donated more than $100,000, giving Julia and the girls the space they need to remake their lives without added pressure. This generosity is far more than we expected and we have closed this site for further donations. 

Nothing will replace Michael – his smile, his quirky humour, his love for nature, his ear for music, the warmth he had for people – but this has made a tremendous difference to the Verdouw family in a time of great need.

Thank you to everyone – friends, family and the wider community – for making this possible. Your donations, large and small, have been received with love.

Peace,

Daniel Sih (friend and neighbour of the Verdouw family)

P.S. Please see the updates below to hear from Julia and find links to the funeral video and music playlist.