Community Pulls Together to Support Family of Former Bonney Lake Police Officer

The Bonney Lake Police Department first shared the sad news of the passing of former Officer Brian Kelly on its Twitter site over the weekend, and the community has wasted no time in ensuring that the family he is survived by - his wife and three young children - are well cared for.

Kelly, who had been battling cancer, passed away on Friday, August 9. Friends set up a fundraising page this week with a goal of raising $15,000 to support his family. As of Tuesday afternoon, nearly $9,000 has been pledged.

Kellly was an officer with the Bonney Lake Police Department from 2008 to 2012 and recently returned to service as an Alaska Airlines pilot, said BLPD on Twitter.

Friend Kira Monteiro, who has helped to create the www.youcaring.com fundraising site, said, "Brian and Angela have given so much to the community and touched people that we might not even know about."

The tribute page indicates the community helped to support the family as Kelly battled his illness. It continued: 

"Now that Brian's fight is over many of us are wanting to know how we can be helping Angela.  For those of you who have been looking for an opportunity to help financially to relieve the burden of Brian's passing this is one way to help. Angela and the kids face a tough road ahead and any support no matter how small is a blessing. This will go a long way towards their biggest needs such as groceries, clothing, utilities and child care."

To give, visit http://www.youcaring.com/memorial-fundraiser/tribute-for-brian-kelly/79075.