Help Fulfill Teddy's Final Wish

My name is Tonie Brune, and I am the POA for my dear friend Teddy, who just passed away from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) suddenly at the age of 35. He leaves behind his two darling children, ages 7 and 8, whom he absolutely adored and showered in love. His only family in the states is his brother Mesfin, who lives in DC and came to the US just 1 year ago. I am currently asking for donations to help cover the cost of Teddy’s final expenses.

Before he died, Teddy’s only request was to have his body sent back to his home country of Ethiopia, after being away for nearly 20 years, to be laid to rest with his grandmother, and to be with his family who all still live there and need to properly grieve his loss.

Teddy was loved by all. He was ALWAYS radiating with positivity and a wide, warm smile no matter what he was going through. He spread genuine care and kindness wherever he went. He was quite the conversationalist. He will be missed tremendously. Please help his family give him the burial he deserves.

Breakdown of Costs

Basic services of funeral director & staff: $725

Transport from LTC facility to funeral home: $340

Casket Coach (Hearse): $305

Embalming (cremation is against Teddy’s religion): $575

Preparation of body: $275

Receptacle (other than a casket) - Airtray- $185

Sales tax: $12.95

1 Copy of Death Certificate: $16

Subtotal of Funeral Expenses: $2,433.95

Transportation of air tray with body from Omaha to DC: $900 or more

Transportation from DC to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: $5,000 or more

TOTAL (estimate): $8,333.95

Teddy’s family in Ethiopia will cover the cost of the burial plot

If received, I will transfer $2,433.95 directly to the funeral home to cover the cost of the funeral expenses. I am currently investigating an airline that Mesfin and I can work with, and we will be sending the money directly to the airline. I will post receipts on this site for accountability purposes. ANY extra funds will be given directly to Teddy’s family for the many hidden costs that they may encounter transferring their beloved back home.