My parents, Jim "Max" and Deb Groehler, have suffered a heartbreaking loss after a devastating fire destroyed a home Max had owned for many years, in Watertown, WI. Multiple fire departments and public safety crews responded to the fire. Because the house had been unoccupied for an extended period of time, insurance no longer offered coverage on the property, leaving my parents with no safety net after this tragedy.

My parents are now facing enormous costs for demolition and cleanup of what remains of the home, damage to surrounding homes, along with uncertainty around potential charges related to extinguishing the fire. These overwhelming financial burdens put their current home and small business at risk.

We are raising funds to help cover:

- Any costs associated with extinguishing the fire.

- Repair to neighboring homes

-Demolition and cleanup expenses*

*If you own a demolition service or company and would be willing and able to donate services to assist in tear down/removal of home, or offer a discount to help with costs, that would be life-changing for my parents.

Max is a proud Vietnam Veteran who has endured many hardships throughout his life and has never asked anyone for help. Through every challenge, he has continued to work hard and persevere. He was selected to go on the Honor Flight in the near future; however, is reconsidering since the fire. Deb, also a veteran, still works to bring in a small income. They are now being faced with overwhelming financial burdens that they cannot manage alone.

Given their age, losing their current home to cover the cost of this fire would be financially devastating and impossible to recover from. They do not have the time or resources to rebuild what they’ve spent a lifetime creating.

Any donation, no matter the amount, would mean the world to our family. If you’re unable to give, sharing this fundraiser would be a tremendous gift.

Max is someone who never asks for help, and it is difficult for our family to do this, but we are reaching out in hope and humility. Your kindness and generosity could help two older veterans through one of the hardest moments of their lives.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading, donating, or sharing. We will be forever grateful.