People came together for a friendly softball game to raise money for the family of late Citrus student and military veteran, Timothy “Rocky” Griego, 10:00 a.m. April 7.
The funeral services for Griego took place Feb. 23. The money donated was meant to help Griego’s family recoup some of the cost of the funeral services. Griego’s wife is currently in the hospital recovering from the car crash that took her husband’s life, Director of The Veteran Success Center, Monica Christianson said.
The Citrus College Veterans Club helped plan the event and set up all the festivities. Christianson and Griego’s friend and veteran, Elizabeth Lopez were the two main organizers behind the event.
There were veterans in attendance from Azusa Pacific University, California State Los Angeles University, and California State Long Beach University. All of which came to pay respect to the Griego family and donate to the cause.
Griego’s relatives wore white T-shirts with the name “Rocky” on the back in blue letters. These T-shirts were made in the style of the L.A. Dodgers because Griego was a huge fan of the baseball team.
The family expressed tearful gratitude to those who had turned out and for donations received. “They were very touched and very grateful for what they got,” Christianson said.
Over $600 was raised through raffle ticket and food sales, donations and silent auctions at the event.
Sealed envelopes addressed to Griego’s family members were also presented by Christianson. Lopez explained the envelopes contained additional donations to the family.
Those that played in the softball game were asked to donate two dollars in support of the Griego family.There were plenty of smiles and laughs throughout the innings.
Playing softball was an activity Griego enjoyed during his time with the veterans club, Chistianson explained. Celebrating his memory with a softball game only made sense.
Griego touched the lives of many people, including his former history professor at Citrus College and fellow veteran, Bruce Solheim.
When Solheim was preparing to move, Griego heard and volunteered to help Solheim with moving his belongings. “He’s one of those guys that would do anything to help a fellow veteran, or anyone else,” Solheim said.
