The Strube family on Sunday will celebrate Nathan's birthday by unveiling a memorial garden dedicated to the .
Anyone who knew or was touched by Nathan are invited to view the memorial garden during a dessert reception held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Strube's residence, 1131 Canton Ave.
"When I first saw (the garden) I had a flash of joy and I knew I would eventually be OK," said Katie Strube, Nathan's mother. "When Nathan died I thought I was going to die. A mother's broken heart is almost unbearable."
The idea to create a memorial garden came from Mirna Gonzalez, a family friend.
Bringing the idea to life was a community effort, Katie said.
Calvin, Nathan's younger brother, and his classmates raised funds to buy plants for the garden.
Area businesses donated time and equipment to pave the Strube's backyard. Donations made to the also helped purchase a gazebo and other item to decorate the garden.
"We want to thank the community again. People have just been so wonderful," Katie said. "Not just generous with their time and money, but thoughts and prayers. People care. This is worse than any physical pain I've ever had in my life. I appreciate everbody's support so much."
Previous articles:
