GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic School says in a letter sent to parents that one of the children involved in a head-on traffic crash Sunday has died.
The crash occurred around 3:30 p.m. on US-131 at Day Road in Rapid River Township.
The Kalkaska County Sheriff's Office told WOOD Radio on Teusday that the five-year-old boy's condition had been upgraded at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital from critical to serious. The kindergarten student was one of four Grand Rapids members of the Marco family whose S-U-V was struck by a car that crossed the center line.
Sheriff's deputies say the 19-year-old driver of the car was trying to pass another vehicle at the time. She and a passenger were also injured.
The school says two other members of the Marco family have a long road to recovery after the crash.
A GoFundMe page has been set up titled, "Support the Marco family."
Below is a copy of the letter sent to families of the Catholic school:
Dear St. Paul Community,
There are no words to adequately describe what I am about to write, but I unfortunately have to share the news with you that Baylor was called home to Jesus this afternoon, surrounded by his family. Father Jake was able to celebrate Mass with the family beforehand which is a testament to the Marco’s unwavering faith. As we grieve this loss, we are reminded of today’s Solemnity, the Annunciation—the moment when the Blessed Mother received the angel’s message that she would bear the Son of God. Mary’s “yes” was an act of trust in God’s divine plan, even when it was beyond human understanding. In this moment of loss, we, too, are called to trust in God’s loving purpose, knowing that Baylor now rests in the arms of the Savior. Just as Mary’s heart was both pierced with sorrow and filled with faith, we hold both grief and hope together, believing that Baylor’s journey has led him to eternal joy.
Baylor, our strong and witty kindergarten friend, always had a twinkle in his eye, although usually mischievous. He loved fiercely and was always the first to make a friend. We find comfort that he is being considered for a Gift of Life donation. We pray that his organs become a blessing to others.
This is a heartbreaking loss for our community. Tomorrow will be hard. We ask parents to have conversations with their children to help them process this news and the emotions that naturally accompany news such as this. Linked HERE are resources to support these discussions and the grieving process.
To support our students and staff in the grieving process, we have arranged for our counselor, Mrs. Williams, along with counselors Heidi Clark-Smitley and Kara Siedins from Grand Rapids Catholic Central, as well as Kipling, to be available. We also have plans in place should additional support be needed.
Please continue to pray for Jude and Miller as they face a long road to recovery. Miller is scheduled for surgery tomorrow afternoon to repair ligament damage. During that time, we will hold continuous prayers in the sanctuary for him and his medical team. I will share details as they become available so our community can join in prayer.
Many have asked how they can support the Marco family and our staff. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of this community. Below are current ways to help, and we will provide updates as needs evolve:
- GoFundMe for the Marco Family: Here
- Support SPA Staff with Lunches: Here
- Baja Fish Taco Reservations (proceeds support the Marco Family): Here
- There will also be an opportunity for a free-will offering at the event
- Community Prayer Chain: Here
Upcoming Prayer Opportunities:
- The Church will be open through Friday until 8 p.m. for silent prayer.
- 3/26: 12 noon Mass with a rosary to follow.
- 3/27: 8 a.m. rosary prior to school Mass.
- 3/28: 8 a.m. rosary led by the Knights of Columbus, with daily Mass at 8:30 a.m. Adoration and confession will follow from 9–10 a.m.
May we find strength in Mary’s example and in the promise of the Resurrection, knowing that Baylor’s light will continue to shine in our hearts. Let us keep the Marcos in our prayers, asking for the Blessed Mother’s comfort and Christ’s peace in the days ahead.
Eternal rest grant unto Baylor, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Blessings,
Michelle Morrow