One of the CFL’s most iconic fans is seeking financial assistance from the public following an alleged house fire.
Kelly Kuntz, the daughter of Wayne Kuntz, has launched a GoFundMe campaign in support of his father. She wrote the following note explaining why.
On April 4th, my dad’s home was the victim of an arson fire. What started in his shed quickly spread, leaving his home uninhabitable. He left for Easter dinner that day with only the clothes on his back, and sadly, he won’t be returning home for quite some time.
We are incredibly grateful that Wayne, his cat Bear, and his dog Jersey made it out safely. That’s what matters most of all.
But the reality is… he’s lost almost everything.
This past year has already been a difficult one. My dad was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer and also suffered a stroke. Day-to-day life has been anything but simple, and now, without a home, everything feels even more uncertain.
Wayne isn’t just my dad; he’s well known in his community and a dear friend and family member to so many. He is deeply loved and supported.
If you know my dad, you know the kind of person he is. He’s been a lifelong member of Rider Nation, a familiar face to so many, and someone who has always shown up for others. He’s the guy who makes space for everyone, who gives what he can without hesitation, and who treats all people with kindness and respect.
Now, we’re asking for a little help for him.
We’ve set a goal of $10,000 to help cover immediate needs, temporary lodging, food, clothing, and create a safe, comfortable space while we figure out next steps for him, Bear, and Jersey.
If you’re able to contribute, we are deeply grateful. If not, sharing this means just as much to our family.
And to his neighbours, the Regina Fire Department, and the Regina Police Service, we thank you. Your quick actions and care in such a scary moment mean more than we can ever express.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Wayne during this incredibly difficult time.
Kuntz has long hosted Wayne’s World Tailgate Party, a Labour Day Classic tradition that spans over two decades. Reportedly, the first Wayne’s World happened serendipitously in 2003 when close to 100 fans from Winnipeg unloaded a few buses near old Mosaic Stadium.
Many of the fans were consuming alcohol on public property, which drew the ire of nearby security guards. A fan asked Kuntz if they could drink in his backyard, which is located just off the old Mosaic Stadium bus lane, and he obliged. Soon, the yard was jam-packed with Blue Bombers fans. It’s been a tradition ever since.
Even though Kuntz’s home hasn’t been located at the foot of Mosaic Stadium since the new building was opened in 2017, hundreds of fans still make the short walk to his backyard to party before the annual Labour Day Classic.
Those who want to make a donation can do so here. Over $7,000 was raised in the first 14 hours of the campaign, putting it close to achieving its fundraising goal.