The family of Jerry Slavik is throwing a party in the name of charity to remember the local philanthropist and sports enthusiast Saturday.
Slavik — who co-founded the Knobby's Kids hockey program and was a mainstay in Windsor's track and field community — died on May 16.
Jerry's daughter Mary Slavik tells AM800 News he made his feelings on funerals very clear, that's why she helped organized Jerry's Friends Day in his honour instead.
"He was very involved in the community and a lot of people wanted a chance to say goodbye and honour all that he has done," she says. "I had suggested to dad that we were going to throw him a big party."
Slavik says the party's more than just a memorial.
"He certainly didn't want people standing around moping at a funeral. This pulls together everything that dad liked, to bring people together and just have fun," says Slavic. "It's also a chance for our family to say thank you to all the friends, volunteers and athletes, for all the support they actually gave to him."
They're prepared to accommodate more than 1,700 people, she added.
"Even if you didn't know Jerry we'd like you to come out and have fun, enjoy the comradery and excitement of being with a whole bunch of people who did know dad and knew how to have a good time," she says.
The event is free, but donations will be collected for some activities to support charities and programs close to Slavic's heart.
Jerry's Friends Day kicks off the University of Windsor's Alumni Field on Colllege Ave. near Huron Church Rd. at 5pm and will include food and entertainment.
A memorial lap in honour of Slavic will be held at 5:30pm and 8:30pm.
— with files from AM800's Rob Hindi.