The Life Raft Group wishes to thank all of our members who participated in this year’s Holiday Campaign. Though it is still underway (look for final results in the next newsletter), this important campaign has raised over $47,000 to support our patient education & support, advocacy, and research to find a cure GIST.
Silvio Manzanares was a tireless fighter, a man with great courage and optimism, with a brilliant mind, the one who never said no when a doctor ordered a treatment or procedure, always an entrepreneur since he got sick in 2001.
Mervin L.Gangstead, 61, of Garland passed away on September 14, 2011 after a lengthy battle with GIST. He is survived by his mother, Ruth Gangstead; his sister, Vivian Nore; his devoted wife of 38 years, Carol; his beloved daughter, Stacey, son-in-law, Kyle Richardson, their two sons, Grant and Hayes; his beloved son, Steven, and daughter-in-law Alex.
Victoria S. Zuber, 62, entered into rest on September 12, 2011 at her home in Ripon. She was born December 3, 1948 in Alameda, CA to Silvio and Marie Simi. Victoria leaves behind her beloved husband of 42 years, Leo M. Zuber as well as her daughters, Randi Polanich and husband Jon of Glen Mills, PA and Robyn Udavi and husband Richard of Ripon. Victoria was blessed with five grandchildren, Ethan and Owen Polanich and Jazmin, Stephanie and Martin Udavi. She was a loving sister to Michael Simi and wife Cathy.
This is not an obituary you’ll be reading because I believe that Richard will never truly leave us. This is a celebration of his life, which lives on in the memories of his family and friends, done the best way I know to honor him—on paper.
Here are some photos from the 2011 Poker Tournament.
Caroline “Kaye” Thompson, age 68, of Lancaster, Penn. died Monday, July 25, 2011 at her residence. Born July 20, 1943 in Pickaway County to the late John J. & Margaret “Margie” (Brungs) Seyfang, she was a 1961 graduate of Walnut High School.
Norman Scherzer (Executive Director) performing to the theme song of Golden Girls to say thanks for helping The Life Raft Group.
Henry William Offen came into this world as Heinrich Wilhelm Albert Offen in Uelzen, Germany, on April 28, 1937. He left his frail body at his Carpinteria home surrounded by his family, pets and garden on Sunday, April 25, just three days before his 73rd birthday.
Rachel J. Tate, 64, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 19, 2011.Born in Marion, NC, she was a daughter of the late Weldon and Pearl Bowman. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and a member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.
