Tragic loss of a team member

[ajlapp]

John Lafata, a dedicated and talented Team RUSH (frc27) student passed away over the weekend due to complications from pneumonia. John couldn't be revived after collapsing suddenly. John was in 11th grade at Clarkston High School. He was 16 years old.

John was a pit crew member and the lead student designer of our chassis sub-group. John was bright and eager to help, and devoted countless late nights last year to get our bot up and running. His natural mechanical ability was astonishing.

John was also one of the kindest students I've ever had the pleasure of mentoring. If you came into our pits last season you undoubtedly interacted with him. He jumped at the chance to explain his work and the work of his fellow teammates! His energy and excitement for engineering and FIRST was incredible. His leadership and intensity will be greatly missed.

If you would like to help support the family, donations can be made to one of two funds. The Lafata Education Fund will help support the educational needs of John's younger brother and sister. The Lafata Family Fund is for general donations. John's funeral arrangements and information for donations are listed below. Thank you all for your support. Please keep John and his family in your prayers.

Checks can be made out to the above mentioned accounts at either branch.

CBCCU
4 South Street
Ortonville, MI 48462

CBCCU
8055 Ortonville Rd.
Clarkston, MI 48348

Wednesday 10/17/2007:
Candle-light Vigil at Brandon High School, Ortonville, MI 48462 @ 8:00 pm

Thursday 10/18/2007:
Lewis Wint Funeral Home, Clarkston, MI, 48462
Visitation 3pm - 9pm
Prayer service at 7:00 pm

Friday 10/19/2007:
Funeral Service at St. Anne's in Ortonville, MI, 48462 @ 11:00 am.

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/photos/29160?