With a heavy heart, I share that our dear friend and brother, Pio Marasco, passed away yesterday, October 3rd, after battling colon cancer for nearly two years.

Pio fought with everything he had. Through even the hardest days, he remained tenacious, remarkably positive, and hopeful that there would be another way forward. He loved life and wanted so deeply to keep living it with the people he cherished. While our hearts are broken, there is comfort in knowing he is now at peace and free from pain.

I was fortunate to call Pio my friend—the kind of friend who truly became family over 20 years. For over 35 years, Maui was his home, and his community of friends became his family. Anyone who spent time with him knew the joy he found in being surrounded by those he loved. His wife of 20 years, Gretchen, and their daughter, Allegra, 15, meant everything to him.

When we started this GoFundMe, your generosity helped Pio move to the mainland to receive specialized care at MD Anderson, giving him access to treatments, clinical trials, and precious time with his family. Thank you to everyone who donated, shared, and stood beside them.

Now, I am asking for your continued support for Gretchen and Allegra. Gretchen devoted the past two years to caring for Pio and was unable to work during that time. With the loss of Pio, their family’s breadwinner, she now faces medical bills, a mortgage, and everyday living expenses while grieving her husband and helping their daughter navigate this heartbreaking loss.

Our hope is to ease that financial burden and give them room to grieve, without the immediate pressure of mounting bills and returning to work. If you are able, please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser. Every contribution will help surround Gretchen and Allegra with the care and support Pio would have wanted for them.

Pio gave so much love to his people. Together, we can carry that love forward for his family.

Lena