The Bonilla family is navigating a difficult holiday season after losing their beloved 36-year-old cousin, Edgar Cifuentes, in a tragic construction site collapse in Northwest Washington. A week after the incident, the family is still grappling with their loss and facing logistical challenges. They have not yet been able to see Edgar's body, which has made processing their grief particularly challenging. Despite these obstacles, they remain determined to honor his memory and fulfill his final wishes.

Processing Grief Amidst Holiday Season

The emotional toll on the Bonilla family has been immense, especially as they try to navigate the holiday season without their loved one. Carmen Bonilla, Edgar's cousin, describes the surreal nature of losing someone so close just days before Christmas. She reflects on Edgar’s kind-hearted nature and how difficult it is to come to terms with his sudden passing. The inability to view Edgar's body has left the family in a state of uncertainty, making it even harder to move forward during what should be a time of celebration.

The family has been trying to find ways to support each other through this challenging period. While the holidays are traditionally a time for joy, the Bonilla family is focused on staying together and providing mutual support. They recognize that there is little time to sit and mourn because practical matters need immediate attention. The family is working tirelessly to arrange funeral logistics and ensure that Edgar’s final wishes are met. This includes setting up a GoFundMe page to help cover expenses and facilitate the return of Edgar’s body to his homeland in Guatemala.

Honoring Edgar’s Memory and Final Wishes

Despite the heartache, the Bonilla family remains committed to honoring Edgar’s memory. They have established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral costs and to help fulfill Edgar’s desire to be laid to rest in his home country. Carmen emphasizes that her aunt’s primary goal is to send Edgar’s body back to Guatemala so that his family can properly mourn and give him peace in his homeland. The family had initially hoped to hold the funeral this Friday but has faced delays due to the ongoing investigation and the fact that they have not yet been able to see Edgar’s body.

The medical examiner’s office has informed the family that they will be able to view Edgar once he is released to the funeral home. In the meantime, the family expresses gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. Donations have already started coming in, helping to alleviate some of the financial burden. As the investigation into the cause of the collapse continues, the family holds onto hope that justice will be served. For now, their focus remains on celebrating Edgar’s life and ensuring that his memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.