Support for My Dad Kenneth Atwater: Memorial Fund

I Lost My Dad but His Life Lesson Lives On: To Never Lose Hope

It's with a heavy heart to announce that on September 17th, 2024, my father, Kenneth Wade Atwater, passed away from a chronic heart condition. This was one week before I had planned to visit him in Michigan. It’s hard for me to ask for help, but it pains me to say that I’ve reached a moment where I am currently struggling to get all of the money needed to plan a memorial service for my dad.

About My Dad:

My dad overcame a lot. He was a father, a brother, a husband, an entrepreneur, and a friend to many. He worked in mortgage and banking and was deeply passionate about it. He selflessly gave many people opportunities to succeed and helped folks from all different backgrounds buy their first home.

What I remember about him most is his sense of humor and the sound of his laughter. When he laughed, a sudden sense of warmth filled the room; it felt like everything was right with the world, even if it wasn’t. I often look for that sense of joy around me, and when I can’t find it, I’m encouraged to create it because it reminds me of him.

He always told me how proud he was of me, and I wish he knew just how proud I was of him. Despite the challenges he faced, he always kept his head up and a smile on his face. I want to honor that strength by giving him a memorial service he would be proud of.

Financial Need:

Planning a funeral comes with overwhelming expenses, and many don’t realize how difficult it is to do so without the proper resources or insurance in the United States. My father unfortunately faced systemic financial challenges, and as his child, I am still working to establish myself financially. This has made covering the cost of his funeral very difficult.

The funeral home has quoted us upwards of $10,000 for the service, and we simply do not have the means to cover it. However, I dream of giving my dad a memorial that truly reflects who he was and the impact he had on so many lives.

The funds raised will go toward:

I am starting this GoFundMe in hopes of overcoming these obstacles, so I can provide my dad with the memorial he deserves. If we meet the goal, I will also use the money to assist my family with travel expenses and offer support as we navigate this difficult time.

The grieving process is made even more stressful when financial resources are limited, and any amount—big or small—will help us honor my father and begin healing. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this with others would mean the world to me and my family.

The way he experienced joy even when times were difficult always stuck with me. I know you’re smiling now. I love you dad. ❤️