An online fundraiser has been organized for the family of a Sunderland teen killed in a collision over the weekend.
The initiative (see link below) has raised more than $17,000 in support of Brock Marshall, who was pronounced dead at the scene of a single-vehicle collision on Side Road 18 early Sunday (Oct. 24), just shy of his 16th birthday.
“The support of the community and the success of the fundraiser speaks to what an incredible young man Brock was,” said Ryan Boulay, organizer of the fundraiser and a family friend.
“It’s very obvious how well liked and respected the Marshall family is in the community. While nothing will bring Brock back, knowing that so many people care about their family is the type of support they need during this time.”
Brock is being remembered by family and friends for his “very kind and loving” nature and an “endless smile” that will never be forgotten.
“Brock was incredibly enthusiastic. He had an outgoing personality and a great sense of humour; he loved to entertain and perform his catwalks around town. He loved the great outdoors and enjoyed mountain biking, dirt biking, four-wheeling, snowmobiling and would never turn down an opportunity to go fishing or hunting,” reads his obituary.
“He was a hardworking and dedicated young man. For the past four years, he took pride in working on the farm at Brethour Stables.”
He was also “fierce and fun” competitor in high level hockey and rugby.
“Rugby is a small community worldwide and in a small town we are family. It is with a heavy heart and great sadness, that we have lost a young rugby player. Brock Marshall was a great kid, friend, brother and player…He was one of the greatest kids to coach and for his size he played much bigger on the field. We are going to miss you and seeing your big smile out there,” reads a social media post from the Brock Rugby Club.
“We offer our support to Diane and Rick Marshall and the family. We are also there for all of the friends and family mourning. As a family we have to support one another during these times and we are always there for you. If anyone would ever like to talk, all of the coaching staff and volunteers are there for you.”
Brock had recently been selected to take part in Rugby Ontario’s junior program.
“Brock Marshall was one of our top performers at the Rugby Ontario Blues Junior Arrows Academy (OBJAA) Trials. As a 15-year-old, excellent results in combine testing, combined with his outstanding game play, resulted in Brock being selected to join the OJBAA Central Academy,” reads a statement Rugby Ontario High Performance Manager Paul Connelly.
“With the strong support of parents Rick and Diane (both former rugby players), and the Brock (Township) rugby community guiding his development, we have no doubt that Brock would have had a very bright future representing Ontario and the Arrows. Our thoughts are with the family and the entire Brock (Township) rugby community.”
Visitation for Brock Marshall will be held at Thorne Funeral Home in Cannington Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. as well as Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m.
A private service for family will be held the following day.
To make a donation to the fundraiser, click HERE.
