Reprinted from the Pioneer Press Newspaper

May 6, 1999

District 112

At Indian Trail, students in Mrs. Baker's second-grade class have had to learn one of life's toughest lessons — how to mourn the loss of their dear friend and classmate, Rory Deutsch. In their grief, this special class has found ways to make positive and meaningful contributions to help deal with their devastating loss, including designing the invitation for the kickoff fund-raising event for the Rory David Deutsch Foundation's Soar to the Stars for Rory, which was held at the Adler Planetarium on April 25.

Rory Deutsch was a sensitive, bright and warm-hearted 7-year-old who had a passion for everything he did. According to Mrs. Baker, "We all learned about friendship, warmth, kindness, as well as courage and strength. We're so glad we knew him; we miss him; and we will remember him always."

In response to their loss, Rory's parents, Ross and Mindy Deutsch, founded the Rory David Deutsch Foundation as a living tribute to their son. This not-for-profit foundation, which is run by Deutsch family, friends and advisers, seeks to fund studies to investigate pediatric brain tumors and other pediatric diseases. community support for the Foundation has been enormous. Approximately 400 families were expected to attend the Soar to the Stars for Rory event and participate in the silent auction and raffle The event also featured the opening of the Adler planetarium's Sky Pavilion and the StarRider Theatre.

Indian Trail students will be raising funds for the Foundation this spring through its annual Walk for Charity, which will be held on June 6 at Wolters Field. Each year, students raise funds for a particular charity by soliciting sponsors to support their effort in participating in the Walk. Last year the Walk raised approximately $2,500.

Rory's family and friends have taken further measures to ensure that he will always be part of the Indian Trail community. Mr. and Mrs. Deutsch will be donating in Rory's honor a special room in Indian Trail's learning center. This room is intended to be a creative outlet for students to work on special projects. Additionally, each year two Indian Trail students who demonstrate and exemplify citizenship will be awarded a newly created "Rory David Deutsch Award." Furthermore, in memory of Rory's passion for learning about outer space, the Deutsch family will be refurbishing Elm Place School's telescope.

Through the love and generosity of the Deutsch family and friends, the students at Indian Trail will continue to learn from Rory and remember him always.