Haralabos “Bobby” Gemelas died at the age of 39 after a year-long battle with aggressive cancer, according to a GoFundMe campaign started by his sister-in-law, Jenna Licari.
He is survived by his wife, Samantha, and a young daughter, Kalligrace, who is less than a year old.
His passing has left a hole in the hearts not only of his family, but members of the community.
Donor Steven Tanatra wrote: “It was an absolute privilege to know Bobby. May his memory live on.”
His journey began just six months after he and Samantha got married and five months after the couple found out they were pregnant.
Gemelas was diagnosed with a rare form of glioblastoma of the spine, an already aggressive cancer that typically affects the brain.
With the cancer progressing, Kalligrace’s birth brought “so much happiness and hope for a brighter future,” Licari wrote. Even when he started losing feeling in his legs and feet, “Bobby just kept trying.”
When the disease spread to his brain through spinal fluid, Gemelas and his family made the difficult decision to switch to hospice.
On Sunday, April 23, “Bobby passed away from our world…with his family by his side, we believe he is finally at peace.”
Now Licari hopes her fundraiser will help her sister raise the couple’s daughter.
The fundraiser has garnered tremendous support so far.
In the six days since the fundraiser launched, hundreds of people have donated, bringing Samantha and Kalligrace Gemelas’ total donations to just over $60,000. Donations come from loved ones, old acquaintances, and even strangers.
“I can’t imagine what your family is going through…I wish your family all the best and I hope the fond memories you shared with this beautiful, strong man will last forever,” Vincent Lee Mercado wrote that his comments were “a concerned stranger.”
Friend Michael Cantwell wrote, “Bobby was an unforgettable force. Some parts of me were only known through our friendship.”
Port Jefferson restaurant Portside Bar & Grill flew a Greek flag in his honor days after his death, according to a photo the restaurant posted on Facebook.
“Thank you for being a great friend and community person,” the post read.
To donate to GoFundMe, click here.
Additionally, the New York chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Advancement Association (AHEPA) organized a bingo event to raise additional funds for Gemelas’ baby girls. The event will take place on Saturday, May 6th.Tickets and more information can be found at here.
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