Church Plans Benefit for Family of Man Lost to Cancer

Bill Gagnon tuned pianos at Twin Cities area schools, residences, businesses and churches since 1985. 

Unfortunately, Gagnon, a member of 's Class of 1982, will no longer be able to continue his positive day-to-day actions in the community; he passed away on Wednesday, June 13, at age 48, after a three-month battle with stage four colon cancer. 

But in Apple Valley hopes the community will rally around Gagnon's family and participate in a benefit luncheon and silent auction to support them, scheduled for noon Saturday. Gagnon's wife, Leanne, was diagnosed with breast cance in 2010, and is in remission. The couple's younger son has autism, and they have a daughter who is in college.

"Bill has impacted so many in our local church body and this community, and we're coming together to support his family in this time of need," said Pastor Mark Opseth in a press release.

The church, located at Cedar Avenue and 145th Street in Apple Valley, is accepting items for the silent auction and financial donations for the family.

The cost for Saturday's hot dog luncheon with beans, chips and soda is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 16. 

Please RSVP to attend by contacting the church at 952-431-6500 or hope@hopechurchcma.org, or by contacting Linda Robb at 651-343-4973 or ilovedeals45@yahoo.com.

The link to Gagnon's complete obituary can be found here.