Kay’s Cruise for Cancer capped off its three day event at 11 a.m. today with a cruise around Webster Lake and a flotilla of more than 20 boats following. The cruise had 85 people on board. They were there to honor the memory of Kay “Poopsie” Kyler who lost her battle with cancer last summer.
Organized by her husband, Harry Kyler, and all the organizations under the umbrella of the North Webster American Legion Post 253, almost $4,000 was donated to Kosciusko Cancer Care Fund with more donations still coming in.
Just after the Dixie pulled away from the dock and began to navigate around the lake, the clouds parted and the sun came out to brighten the cruise. Musical entertainment was provided by Capt. Bob, the singing Dixie skipper and it was broadcast on radio to the following boats. A special song for Kay was sung. It was her favorite called “Pontoon” made famous by Little Big Town.
Many noted the cancer emblems with the American flag at the ends of many piers. These were part of the fundraising effort. After the cruise was completed, Russ Chandler entertained even more people in North Webster Town Park. T-shirts, bracelets and pins were being quickly snapped up. All proceeds from the event went to the local cancer care fund.
Harry Kyler noted, “We are so happy that this money will stay right here in Kosciusko County and help those who need it.” Jeff Wells represented KCCF in accepting the donation in Kay’s memory and praising the efforts of Harry Kyler and all the organizers.
Months of hard work and planning went into the fundraiser. Friday evening there was a bake sale and music by Gunslinger at the legion. Saturday brought a host of activities from a breakfast buffet and the continuation of the bake sale to a car and motorcycle cruise in. There was also a poker walk, corn hole contest and a music jam featuring the bands, United, Hit Men, Short-Term Memories and Team Shutt, Saturday afternoon and evening. Raffles, vendors, barbecue and a cash bar filled out the day.