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Nanjemoy native Luke Robert Vandegrift was identified by Maryland State Police as the person on a Suzuki GSXR-1000 who was killed after striking the side of a pick-up truck on Saturday afternoon in La Plata.
Now, friends and family are rallying as they continue to come to terms with the unexpected death.
"He will be remembered for his larger than life personality and always had a big smile," organizers of a fundraiser for the family said. "Luke served the country, mostly overseas proudly as a Merchant Marine Chief Steward.
"His absence will leave a large hole in his family's life," Michael George added. "they have lost a son, a brother, an uncle, a nephew and friend.
"A burden shared is half a burden."
Thousands of dollars have been raised on behalf of the Vandegrift family. Those interested in donating can do so here.
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