Jerry Oberdorf, president of the alumni association, came to Walter’s old school – Fairfield Central Elementary – and presented the $1,000 donation to School Principal Karrie Gallo.
Oberdorf also announced Walter, who passed away due to a childhood cancer in October, will be made an honorary lifetime member of the association.
Gallo said “as of today, we have raised $16,414!”
The additional donated money will go for more playground equipment for the new school, which opened its doors in September.
“Superbubz lives on and continues to touch so many in our community,” said Gina Gentry-Fletcher, spokeswoman for the 10,000-student district.
Thanks to an extraordinary outpouring of support from Fairfield school officials - as well as many throughout Southwest Ohio – Walter was allowed to “graduate” early from high school in a specialized ceremony attended by more than 300 at Central Elementary.
The plans were shared with the first grader in his final weeks of life, and he helped his friend Gallo pick out the playground equipment the school would order should money ever become available.
“It is important to know that if we exceed our goal, the additional funds will not go to waste,” said Gallo. “We are hoping to also purchase a bench and a memorial plaque for the playground. Any additional funds will simply go towards fulfilling Bubz dream of having the best playground on Earth.”
Donations can be made online here or mailed to Fairfield Central Elementary, 5054 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, Ohio 45014.
About the Author