Darren and Gretchen

[DavenRoxy 1,073]

For some of the older members here, you may remember Darren and Gretchen. Fil-Am couple who did as we are all trying to do, live our lives together. She made it to the US, they married, and they had two beautiful babies together. Well, Darren died last month. I have heard about this thru some FB/VJ friends, and my heart goes out to the young Pinay with two babies and no father anymore. If any of you can find it in your hearts, find a way to spare a little bit of the blessings God has sent your way, you can donate thru a link that a fellow VJ'er set up to assist Gretchen. I am sure the young family would appreciate anything you may be able to help with.

http://www.gofundme.com/j87mxs

[Hank_ 9,174]

Hopefully someone will get her connected with SSA also.

[Greenbaum 12,259]

Hank - those were my thoughts also.

I am sorry to hear of his passing and wish Gretchen and the children God's Speed in this difficult time ahead. They will be in our prayers.

I recommend that she needs to contact SS as soon as she feels up to it. She needs to determine the following which she maybe entitled to:

1. A one-time payment of $255 can be paid to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the deceased;

2. A widow or widower at any age who is caring for the deceased’s child under age 16 or disabled; This will change once they are in school full time

There maybe other benefits that she is entitled to but contacting Social Security will help her get the benefits and start them coming in to cover the lost of his employment salary. I am familiar with these benefits as I lost my wife some years ago and if it were not for SS I don't know what I would have done trying to raise 3 children on my own. Most families rely on two incomes.

[Cyberfx1024 7,980]

What happened if you don't mind me asking. I liked reading his posts and I was wondering what happened. I did contribute so I hope it helps.

[MuDelphi 159]

Darren's threads always brought out some of the more lively discussion here on VJ. What a tragedy, thoughts with his wife and children.

[Hank_ 9,174]

What happened if you don't mind me asking. I liked reading his posts and I was wondering what happened. I did contribute so I hope it helps.

He passed away quietly in his sleep.

DARREN W. GRAY

August 10, 1966 - December 20, 2014

Darren Walter Gray, age 48 of Phoenix, Arizona passed away December 20, 2014 at his home.