Golf Classic Planned for H1N1 Victim

APPLE VALLEY, Minn. - A Minnesota family is hoping to carry on a little boy’s smile through the happiness of others after H1N1 took his life. In less than a year, the Romans raised $21,000 for the fund. On Sunday, they called on all golfers for the first annual William David Romans Golf Classic in September.

In his short life, William Romans visited the Minnesota zoo every week. It brought so much happiness to him that after his death nearly a year ago his parents wanted to share that joy with other children who could not go to the zoo. The park down the street from their home is a special place for Jaimi and David Romans.

Last October, Romans died from H1N1 complications at just nine months old.

"There’s not a moment that goes by that I’m not thinking of that little guy," said Jaimi.

Along with his brother Jamison, Roman loved the outdoors and couldn't wait to go to the zoo. The Romans would take Roman to the zoo one to two times a week, to get up close with the animals. His favorite animal was the monkeys.

"I think it's a great place to take Jamison and the rest of our children in the future to remember their brother Will."

And it's a place they want all children to be able to go. That’s why the family established the Minnesota Zoo's William David Romans Education Fund. The goal is to provide economically challenged children from kindergarten to second grade free admission to the zoo and to bring the animals to sick children through the Zoomobile.

"It’s our way of keeping Will's name alive."

"Just to see the outpouring of the love and support and commitment of the community and to do something in will's name is fantastic," said David.

While the Romans continue to honor their son, the community stepped in as well to up a climbing wall in Will's honor so every child can be reminded of a boy who put a smile on so many faces in his short life on earth.

"He was happy in general but every time we went to the zoo he smiled and laugh and it was a just a complete joy to watch the excitement the zoo brought to his face so we hope other kids can enjoy that as well."

For the golf classic alone, the Romans have raised an additional $15,000 for Will's fund.

There are still plenty of spots available for the tournament taking place at the majestic oaks golf club September 13.

Golf Classic: http://www.mnzoo.org/romansgolfclassic/