Local gym rallies around deceased member’s family

STATE COLLEGE — The members and instructors at State College gym Ki’netik Fitness were like a second family to Dan Aten, according to his wife, Emily. So, when the 34-year-old was facing his final days after a 2 1/2-year battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, it was gratifying, but not completely surprising, for his real family to see his gym family rally around in a big way.

When they learned Aten’s condition was rapidly declining, Ki’netik Fitness co-owner Missy Quick and member Bill Kelz took the reins, organizing a community fundraising event to benefit Aten’s wife and 3-year-old son, Tyler.

Aten passed away at the age of 34 on Aug. 14. On Aug. 18, Ki’netik Fitness opened its doors to the community for the morning, welcoming people to come in, make a donation and participate in a guided 45-minute workout. The event also featured raffles of prizes donated by local businesses.

“Dan was one of our family members, and we wanted to be here for him, as well as for Emily and Tyler, to show our love and support for them,” Quick said. “We wanted our community to come together to show what really matters in life, because it’s not what a lot of people think it is. It’s being here for people who need us.”

Quick said the event came together in just 10 days, and has raised more than $5,500 for the Aten family so far.

Dan Aten joined the gym in 2012, but it was through his participation in a weight-loss contest there in 2013, during which he lost more than 60 pounds and finished as runner-up, that his relationship with the place — and the people there — was cemented.

“The Ki’netik family was very important to Dan. He found this gym, and these people, and these motivators — it was life-changing for him,” Emily Aten said. “This was his home for a really long time. This was his place to get strong and feel good. … So, this event, I don’t even have the right words to say thank you for it. It’s just so amazing.”

Donations are still being accepted and can be mailed to Ki’netik Fitness, 2301 Commercial Blvd., State College, PA 16801.