EASTHAMPTON — Co-workers of Trevor Wadleigh, 34, who was killed in the New Year’s Day fire at a Holyoke apartment building, have planned a memorial benefit to honor him and raise money to support his 4-year-old son.
Wadleigh is remembered by those close to him for helping others. As the apartment building went up in flames, he woke up his friend Milton Galarza and his pregnant wife, ushering them to a window ledge where the two were saved by a ladder truck.
Wadleigh went back in the flames. Those closest to him believe he was trying to save his two Boston terriers who died with him in the fire.
Friends and family also remember Wadleigh for his selflessness and silliness. They say he loved to cook and go fishing. Originally from eastern Massuchusetts, he had moved to the area about a year ago.
The benefit is scheduled for 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday in the Boyleston Room at Keystone Mill, 122 Pleasant St, and is hosted by Riff’s Joint, an Easthampton restaurant where Wadleigh worked as a cook.
Donations are suggested for admittance and all proceeds will go to a trust fund for T.J. Wadleigh.
“We want to make sure he’s set in his future,” Samantha Douville, a server at Riff’s, said about T.J.
Douville said the event will have a cash bar, appetizers and entertainment such as music, ping pong and a magician.
Those who would like to make a donation or have questions about the event contact Samantha Douville at (413) 244-6738 or smd1587@gmail.com.
Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.