Anton W. Bakker Memorial Fund CHARITYSMITH

ANTON WINSTON BAKKER MEMORIAL FUND

abakkerThe Anton Winston Bakker Memorial Fund was created over the course of a year by his close friends from the University of Arizona. The inspiration for this endeavor evolved during numerous discussions at Les Chamois in Squaw Valley. It was there in the afterglow of days spent skiing, that Anton’s memory and absence would at times rise to the surface.

Discussions and reflection on this intention of this memorial fund settled on a simple yet substantial goal: to honor the memory of a fallen friend by lifting an athlete to the heights of his or her personal best. The promise of this memorial fund would be one of encouragement and financial support. The recipient would be defined merely as an individual striving for the harmony and freedom that is athletic excellence. Excellence that came so naturally to Anton Winston Bakker.

In 2004, with snow falling in October, some of his closest friends decided to press forward with the Anton Winston Bakker Memorial Fund.

"To keep his spirit strong and ever present, and to help out good kids that are talented, hardworking but do not have the financial means to pursue their dreams." - Brian Foster, in memory of Anton…

About Anton W. Bakker
Anton Winton Bakker was born on February 17th, 1976, in Marin County, California. He was a champion in sports and an excellent student throughout his nine years at Ross Grammar School. For the next four years, St Ignatius School in San Francisco was his home, where he led his football, basketball, and lacrosse teams to victory. He spent his summers traveling the world, working, volunteering at CYO Camp for underprivileged children and watching sunsets after long days of active sports.

Anton went to the University of Arizona primarily for its bountiful opportunities for outdoor adventure. Anton was a proud and active member of the Lagunitas Club in Ross and the Olympic Club of San Francisco. He cherished the years he spent in Arizona broadening his mind as a Business Major, developing best friends, improving his already excellent athletic skills, and serving as a loyal and proud member of his fraternity, Delta Chi, where he was named “Most Athletic”. His years at the University of Arizona allowed him to take his love and knowledge of nature to even greater heights.

Anton was a fearless hero and leader with a gentle heart; whose loving and exuberant personality affected everyone he met. He was an outstanding athlete with a deep love and respect for nature and animals. No one was more loyal as a son, brother, and friend. His love for his family and friends was exceeded only by his love to live life to its fullest.

Perhaps Anton’s greatest gift was that of a role model. From a letter written to Anton:
“Inspiration, that is what you have always given me. Inspiration to be more than I think I can be. I watch you and I am awe inspired. Yet you always tell me that I am the star, humble you may be but you outshine me and all others around you with a calm that bewilders. I see you in everything I do whether it may be miniscule or extreme, you are my hero.”

Ultimately, his selfless nature led to his death. We who were touched by Anton’s love and courage will forever carry a part of his soul in our hearts.

 

 

Recipients:

 

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Donations:

All donations to the Anton W. Bakker Memorial Fund (a division of CHARITYSMITH) are tax deductible in accordance with federal tax laws. Donations can be made using one of the following secure methods:

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