Make-A-Wish Co-Founder Frank Shankwitz passes away at 77

Frank Shankwitz, co-founder of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, has passed away at age 77.

The family of Frank Shankwitz made the following comment on his Facebook page since news broke of his passing:

“Frank’s passing has created a loss in our lives that will take time to heal. However, we are comforted knowing that the legacy he left will continue to carry on in all those who knew him.”

Make-A-Wish, which grants the wishes of children with severe illnesses, traces its roots back to 1980. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, it was boy’s dream to be to be a Highway Patrol motorcycle officer. Just like the characters on his favorite TV show, “CHiPs.”

Shankwitz was among several AZDPS officers who made Chris’ dream come true. By making him the first and only Honorary Arizona Highway Patrol Officer. A position that came with his own uniform, a badge and motorcycle officer wings.

Chris died just a few days after his wish had been fulfilled, and Shankwitz led the funeral procession in Illinois, according to AZDPS.The experience inspired Shankwitz, along with his wife and several others, to found the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Shankwitz was the organization’s first president and CEO.

Today, Make-A-Wish says it grants a wish to a child every 34 minutes in the United States and its territories thanks to the help of thousands of volunteers and donors. The organization also grants wishes to kids in about 50 countries on five continents, 

Related: ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ Will Be Available to All Disney+ Subscribers This June

Photo Credit – Frank Shankwitz on Facebook

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