Support for Prairie View Teacher, Ms. Mary Dilenge

Our dear friend and colleague, Mary Dilenge, experienced a devastating loss on Thursday, April 17th, when her father passed away suddenly during the school day. Mary is a compassionate and dedicated 5th-grade teacher at Prairie View Grade School who gives so much of herself to her students and our school community.

This heartbreak comes with an even deeper story. Six years ago, Mary and her family suddenly lost her mother, who had been the primary caregiver for her father after his health declined and he became wheelchair-bound. After her mother’s tragic passing, Mary and her sister Diana stepped into that role. They have been sharing the responsibilities of caring for their father with love and devotion ever since.

Now, as they grieve this sudden and profound loss, we – Mary’s 5th-grade team – are organizing this GoFundMe to help alleviate the financial burden of funeral expenses, headstone costs, family affairs, and memorial services.

Mary has given so much to those around her – her students, her family, and our school. It’s our turn to give back and support her in this time of need. Every prayer, every donation, no matter the size, will help ease the weight of this moment and allow Mary and her family the space to grieve and honor their father's memory.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.

With love and gratitude,

Paige Brock, Lauren Kotula, Michael Casey, and Madigan Burton

Click here for the official Obituary of Robert "Rusty" DiLenge