Friends host New Year’s Eve benefit for son, Thomas
By Kim Chiomento, Staff Writer, The Times
KENNETT — Marcus Macaluso’s spirit and memory live on in the tightly knit community of Kennett Square. His sudden death this fall, at the age of 42, sent a devastating shock wave through his family and continues to ripple through the community he loved and served.
Marcus was a fixture within the Blue Demons lacrosse organization; and spent many hours on the field assisting developing lacrosse players with fundamentals and providing positive support. When his son, Thomas, (now in eighth grade) moved on to Kennett Middle School (KMS); Marcus began assisting the KMS lacrosse team as well.
Known for his peaceful nature and optimistic outlook, Marcus was a well-liked among the youth he mentored. He loved the outdoors; and enjoyed taking Thomas and his friends camping, fishing, swimming and exposing them to the beauty and energy found in nature and their daily surroundings.
To life-long friend Winden Rowe, and her two sons William (13) and Reed (11), Marcus, Thomas and Thomas’ mother – Jessica Peterson are family. Winden fondly says, “We have known Thomas since day one…there have been times where Thomas has been a permanent fixture in our home; endless play dates, family vacations, you name it. –He’s been like a brother to us.”
The Rowe Family, who live in Kennett Square, have developed a knack for throwing great parties where all are welcome. This year it was William and Reed’s idea to focus a New Year’s Eve celebration in support of their dear friend Thomas, and to also celebrate Marcus’ life. The party’s goal is to help defray the countless expenses Thomas will encounter as he matures, continues his education and passion for sports.
Marcus & Thomas Macaluso
“Thomas is a kind and thoughtful child; and a kid with a heart of solid gold,” says Winden, “I hope that this is just one way that we can, as a community, gather together to surround Jessica and Thomas with a lot of love, remember our friend Marcus, and do it all in the spirit of celebration and inviting in a new and better year.”
The party will feature two bands: TJ Kong and the Atomic Bomb (Named one of the “Top Bands to Watch in 2013” by USA Today) and HellSaddle, a local band with their own original music as well as covers from bands like the Allman Brothers and other classic dance friendly tunes. Local businesses – The Half Moon Saloon, Waywood Beverage and McGovern’s Septic, have each offered their services to provide food, beverage and necessary services for the event as well.
Winden, William, and Reed will be hosting the party at their home in Kennett Square starting at 9 PM New Year’s Eve. To RSVP, get directions, and assist with a beverage or food contribution please email Winden: rowe.winden@gmail.com. If you would like to contribute but cannot attend, please visit the GoFundMe account link referenced below to make a donation.
A $15 party entrance fee will be collected to help raise funds to support Thomas as he pursues future endeavors including lacrosse, skating and his education. An impressive goal of raising $25,000 has been set. Due to the nature of the party and limited space, The Rowe Family respectfully requests that it remain an adult gathering. However, if friends of Thomas wish to stop by briefly, say hello, and wish him well they are most welcome to do so.
If you are unable to attend the party, but wish to help support Thomas, a GoFundMe account has been established: http://www.gofundme.com/ifc8mc.
Thomas and Marcus Macaluso
