It is with profound sadness that Melinda is asking for support for Julie and her family after the sudden and unexpected passing of Bart. Bart was Julie’s beloved husband of 33 years and a proud father to their two sons. His loss has left a heartbreak that words can hardly capture for Julie, for their boys, and for everyone who had the gift of knowing him. Bart was known for his humor, especially his love of a good dad joke, and for the warmth and light he brought into every room. He was steady, devoted, and deeply loved, and his presence shaped the everyday life of his family in countless ways.

As Julie and her sons try to navigate this unimaginable grief, they are also facing the financial hardship that comes with such a sudden loss. Julie relied on Bart’s income, and this fundraiser has been created to help ease some of that burden. Donations will help cover funeral and memorial expenses and provide ongoing support for Julie as she adjusts to life without Bart. Any contribution, big or small, means so much. Most of all, thank you for surrounding Julie and her sons with love, prayers, and support, and for honoring Bart’s memory by helping the family he loved most.