Connecticut father raises funds for memorial playground

A family in Connecticut is mourning the loss of their four children, who died in a house fire last year. The tragedy occurred on January 2, 2024, in Somers. The children's father, Kevin Koropatkin, described their deaths as "the most shocking, unbelievable" event of his life. To honor their memory, a fundraiser is taking place this week for a playground. Koropatkin expressed his grief, saying, “I should be taking them to the playground rather than building one.” He hopes the playground will be a place for family and friends to gather and remember his children. Lukas, Genevieve, Benjamin, and Archer Koropatkin were ages 5 to 11 at the time of their passing. The playground project is led by the “Where Angels Play Foundation,” an organization known for building playgrounds in memory of children lost to violence. They aim to design the playground with personal touches that reflect each child's interests. Ken and Audrey Shanke, the owners of a restaurant group, are leading the fundraising efforts. They have previously raised significant money for charitable causes and hope to reach the goal of $125,000 for this playground. Supporters can donate at Teriyaki Madness locations through March, and on March 28, all sales will go directly to the playground fund. The fire, which was ruled an accident, started on the left side of the family's home. Koropatkin shared he has experienced many losses in his life, including losing his parents at a young age. The playground aims to provide a lasting tribute to his children, with features like a fishing dock for Lukas, who loved fishing, and elements reflecting the unique personalities of all four siblings.