More than 7 years later, Dillhoff died Dec. 26 at the age of 43 from complications of the cancer that had spread to through his body to his spine, liver and brain.
His family and friends vowed to continue his work to aid Vandalia’s female athletes as a tribute to Dillhoff.
“He wanted a way to help the girls athletics in the Vandalia-Butler community,” said Nikki Harestad, sister of Dillhoff.
He had sponsored the “3-point shot” fund, donating $3 for each three-pointer made during his basketball games. At the end of the year, he would present the school with a check.
Family and community members say Dillhoff, who had worked as an aircraft welder for Unison, will be missed.
His ex-step daughter, Whitney Barfknecht, remembers him as a positive father figure in her life.
“He was the strongest man I have ever met, and he would do anything for anyone,” Barfknecht said.
“He didn’t want people to think about the cancer,” Harestad said. According to his sister, Dillhoff didn’t allow people to come see him in the hospital.
Dillhoff had bought his tickets for this basketball season, reserving his courtside seat. After his death, his picture, flowers and a ribbon were placed at his seat to pay tribute to Dillhoff.
His memorial service was held on Dec. 30 at St. Christopher Church in Vandalia.
To continue Dillhoff’s memory, the family is accepting contributions to the Kyle Dillhoff Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 331 Vandalia, OH 45377. Also, anyone willing to contribute to the fund can visit any Wright-Patt Credit Union location and donate to the Kyle Dillhoff Scholarship Fund.
The family plans to raise money for the fund by having fish fries, fundraisers and other activities to keep Dillhoff’s memory alive.
CASEY LAUGHTER
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