Jeffrey Stewart Support Fund

On Saturday, Dec. 7th, our friend and brother, Jeff Stewart, sadly passed away from complications of liver disease.  Many of us who knew and loved him, going back to our college days in the mid-80's, had lost touch with him over the years.  His life took many turns, both highs and lows, but the connection we had with him remained strong.  This was clear as the Fiji network rallied in these final weeks to make sure Jeff knew that he was cared for and loved.  As we said our goodbyes over these final days, Jeff was filled with appreciation for our efforts.  He was quick to give his thanks and to say, "Love you Brother".  Although we all wish we could have done more, earlier in his life, we should take some solace in knowing that he passed away, without pain, without mental anguish, knowing that he mattered to many people in his life and knowing that he was loved.

We are establishing a GoFundMe drive to raise resources to help offset some of the costs that will occur over the coming days and months.  In the same way that we all sought to make his final days dignified, we are hoping to provide burial and memorial services that honor the man we knew him to be.  As a fraternal brotherhood, I think we would all agree that stepping in to help out one of our own who is down on his luck is a key part of our bond.  Phi Gamma Delta means knowing that no matter what may come in our lives, we are all part of an unbreakable chain that connects us.  We are brothers to the end, and beyond.  Jeff has now joined the "Fratres qui feurent sed nunc ad astra" (brothers who were, but are now with the stars).  I think it is fair to say that the stories surrounding Jeff, and his legacy in our brotherhood, will live on "ad infinitum".

Examples of hard costs we are asking for you to generously support:

- cremation
- headstone engraving
- obituary in Bangor paper
- burial service (to be held this spring in Sandy Point, ME)
- cleanup of former apartment
- memorial / celebration (to be held after graveside burial)
- any remaining medical bills / expenses

Our goal is to raise roughly $5,000 in the next couple months to offset these costs.  His family is estranged but will be helping out as best they can.  We all realize this ask is coming at a difficult time of the year, but if we all do something and spread the word far and wide, I am confident we can hit that goal.  I look forward to celebrating the life of Jeff Stewart with all of you this spring, reminiscing in the glory years, and laughing as we send off our brother and friend.

Perge'

- Don Marden
  Omega Mu '87
  [email redacted]