Community rallies around young family after tragic death
A grief-stricken Warragul family lost a loving husband and father just months after two other deaths in the family. Read how you can help.
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A community is rallying around a young family after the tragic loss of a husband and father on Christmas Day.
Warragul man Paul De Crescenzo, or Dippa, died unexpectedly on December 25.
The death of the 37-year-old “husband, father and loved friend who touched the lives of so many” has been described as “an absolute shock and tragedy”.
His wife Trudy De Crescenzo wrote that she was “lost for words” online.
“If only you knew how loved you were,” she said.
A fundraiser set up to support the family describes how his wife’s life had been “turned upside down in an instant”.
“She is now faced with raising her two beautiful girls as a single mother,” her cousin Rachel Kemna said.
“Sadly, Trudy is also grieving her mother’s recent death, after losing her just over four weeks ago to cancer.
“She also lost her father 12 months ago, also to cancer.”
Ms Kemna explained she wanted to raise money for Trudy and her girls, Alannah and Adele, “to ease some of the financial burden she has been left with”.
It is envisaged the money will assist with day-to-day costs to give the family time to grieve without the need to immediately return to work.
“The funds raised will also go towards counselling for both Trudy and the girls, to help guide and support them as they navigate their emotions, grief, and healing.
“It is in times of tragedy and loss people come together to help one another and support those we care about. We are truly grateful for any support you may be able to provide for these beautiful girls.”
Tributes posted online have described Mr De Crescenzo as an “all round great man” who was “down to earth”, “fun loving”, “caring” and a “kind soul”.
The fundraiser has raised more than $36,000 in seven days.
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