A 15-year-old was the beneficiary of a bike ride and benefit Sept. 6.

Tanner Shelanick lost his father, Jeff, March 25. The elder Shelanick was 42 when he died of throat cancer.

"Jeff supported his son financially and in all ways a father should," said Georgie Hoffman of Catasauqua, Tanner's mother. "He always put Tanner first and went above and beyond. Tanner loves and misses his dad dearly."

Pam Stettler and Steve Csencsits, both of Northampton, organized the bike ride and memorial benefit, held at Lappawinzo Fish and Game in Northampton, to raise money for Tanner's education. The benefit was open to the public.

Family, friends and businesses paid to have their logo on the back of T-shirts made in Jeff Shelanick's honor for the benefit. The shirts were sold as souvenirs. In addition, the group raised money via basket raffles, face painting and a 50/50 raffle. The group then went on a 45-minute bike ride.

"The Shelanick family appreciates this opportunity to express our thanks, appreciation and tireless work in making our son's memorial benefit such a heartwarming success. Jeff was always there for me and I miss him so very much," said Mitzi Filipovits of Northampton, Jeff's grandmother.

"The loss of Jeff has put a lot of sorrow on so many people's hearts and my son and I felt overwhelmed from the outpour of love that so many showed us on that day," said Tanner.

Friends and family considered Jeff to be the number one fan of the local rock band Social Call, who played from 6 to 9 p.m. at no cost for the benefit.

Jeff's sister Lisa and brother Jim said it was amazing and comforting to see family and friends come together to share in the celebration of their brother's life.

Tanner's grandparents, Jim and Rosemarie Shelanick of Northampton, have placed all proceeds in a trust fund for Tanner when he turns 21.