A memorial of flowers and stuffed animals has been set up in honor of Gidieon at the crosswalk of North Pointe Drive and Husky Trail.

WARSAW — The Warsaw community is mourning the death of 8-year-old Gidieon Cook after he was struck and killed by a vehicle on Monday, June 10.

Gidieon Cook

Over 600 people have donated via an online fundraiser to help the family through this tough time. The fundraiser was established on Tuesday, June 11, with a goal of $20,000. By Tuesday evening, the initial $20,000 goal had already been met. As of this morning, over $27,000 has been contributed to the fundraiser.

The fundraiser was set up by two local women, Bethany Wolfe and Kristin Schumm Stetz to benefit Gidieon’s mother, Keri Cook. “No one should ever have to bury a child,” reads the donation site. “I wanted to start this fundraiser to help her get through this horrible time without financial burden as well.”

Another way that the community can honor Gidieon’s life is by attending a candlelight vigil at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 13. Friends and family are invited to gather at the crosswalk of North Pointe Drive and Husky Trail in front of Harrison Elementary School in Warsaw.

During the vigil, there will be a message from Pastor John Lowe and songs. Children will have balloons to release at the end of the service in lieu of a candle.

Visitation and funeral service information can be found here.