As some of you may know, my dad, Mike Luptak, unexpectedly passed away last week at the age of 61. On Sunday, February 2nd, he had a stroke. The stroke caused a large aneurysm above his cerebellum. On Tuesday, February 4th, this aneurysm ruptured, which caused extensive bleeding in his brain. Due to the size, it was inoperable; there was nothing more the doctors could do, and it had caused severe brain damage that there was no chance of him ever recovering from or being able to live any sort of normal life. We respected my dad's wishes and couldn't let him continue on in such a state that he and we agreed isn't a quality of life for us.

We determined he was an organ donor, and on February 8th, they stopped the machines that were keeping him breathing, and he went pretty quickly. They were able to save 2 people's lives with his organs. If you knew my dad, he was always helping others, so I find this comforting to know he was able to help 2 more people even after he left us.

My dad was the sole provider of their household, leaving my mom to now figure things out alone. I'm hoping to raise a little money that will first go towards the cost of cremation and eventually towards a celebration of life. Anything left over will go towards bills and helping my mom get through financially while we navigate through this difficult time and figure out the next chapter.

Mike adored his 3 grandchildren, whose lives he was very active in and sadly leaves behind, Caiden, Cali, and Jayla. He also leaves behind his wife, Cindy, daughter Tara, and sister Jennifer. Along with many other extended family members, loved ones, and friends. Mike has touched so many lives with his kindness, helpfulness, and big heart. He had never met a stranger he couldn't strike up and carry a conversation with. The outpouring of kind words and love we have received is heartwarming. He truly was a great guy and will be missed so deeply by so many.

Anything you can do to help or even share is appreciated. And if you can't financially, that's OK, please just send positive and healing vibes to his loved ones to help them get through this difficult time. Thank you in advance.