Dubuque Family to Hold Benefit After Boy’s Death

By Katie Wiedemann, Reporter

Tools

By James Steward

Story Created: Feb 10, 2012 at 8:09 PM CDT

Story Updated: Feb 10, 2012 at 8:09 PM CDT

DUBUQUE, Iowa -- For decades, Breitbach's Food Store in Dubuque, has specialized in serving all-organic food. Lately, everyone inside has been busy.

They have been preparing food for an expected crowd of 1,500 people at a benefit this Sunday to honor 3-year-old Nakoa Estafen, who was electrocuted on New Year's Eve when he crawled behind a kitchen stove and touched a live wire.

He spent the following weeks fighting for his life at the University of Iowa Hospital, but he didn't survive.

"He was a real laugher and a great entertainer, always wanting to make people laugh," said Estafen's grandfather and Breitbach's Food Store owner, Michael Breitbach.

"And he took care of his little brother."

Since his grandson's death, friends and strangers have been asking Breitbach what they can do to help.

That's why the family is hosting the benefit this weekend.

"There will be food and music at all three venues and live auctions at all three venues," Breitbach said.

He said Nakoa's death seems to have impacted more than just his close family.

"There's a lot of grieving going on, all over the place," Breitbach said. "I can't believe the thousands of people that got linked up into praying for him.

"It seems like there isn't enough closure yet."

The Breitbachs are hoping the event will bring closure for their family, and for the entire community.

The event starts at 3 p.m. Sunday and will feature food and local bands at three locations: The Bank Bar and Grill, the Julien Hotel, and the Lift Bar. There will be a $10 cover charge, and that money will be used to help support Nakoa's parents.

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