Don DeGrazia left this world unexpectedly on a softball field in the heart of Chicago on June 13. His wry smile, hearty laugh, wise words, passion, and enthusiasm for life, were taken from this world… and his two greatest loves, Daisy (his 17-month-old daughter) and Siera (his best friend and wife) far too soon.

While Don achieved international fame for sharing his gift for telling timeless coming-of-age stories and many other creative endeavors, we celebrate him for all the gifts of kindness, guidance, presence, passion, and creativity he gave to us—his friends, family, students, colleagues and anyone who had the pleasure to know him. The loss of Don is felt by all of us, but none more deeply than Daisy and Siera. Don’s journey into fatherhood had just begun and he and Siera were excited to make plans for her future and to see the world through Daisy’s eyes thinking of all she’s yet to accomplish.

We created this GoFundMe page to help Daisy reach those big accomplishments—specifically higher education and create a place where those who knew and loved Don can show their support. Your support will go directly into a trust to help relieve the financial burden for Daisy when she reaches college.

Thank you for being a part of Don’s life and helping to be part of his legacy through your support of Daisy.