Fundraiser Looking to Make Former Teacher's Dream Come True

EAST ISLIP, NY - A fundraising campaign was recently started on behalf of an Islip Terrace elementary school teacher who recently passed away.

Bernie Ruhlig, a physical education teacher from Ruth C. Elementary School, died last month.

Following his death, Ronkonkoma resident Dennis Vincent started a GoFundMe page to help raise money to complete his dream.

"Bernie had the biggest heart for children and always guaranteed each child had the very best time in physical education," he wrote on the page. "On a daily basis he demonstrated selfless dedication to the children he taught. Throughout his years he consistently went above and beyond to make it fun for all children."

Vincent is hoping to raise a total of $15,000 to help create "Bernie's Kid's Gym." The donations will go towards purchasing equipment for the gymnasium and playground in Ruhlig's memory.

As of Monday, the page has raised a total of $11,725.

To read more or to donate, visit the GoFundMe page here.