Emotional Vigil Held For Beloved 15-Year-Old Softball Player Who Died From Brain Aneurysm

FONTANA (CBSLA.com) — An emotional vigil was held Sunday evening for a 15-year-old star softball player who died of a brain aneurysm.

Dana Housley died lat week -- days after suffering a brain aneurysm.

Housley had just completed her freshman year at Etiwanda High School in Rancho Cucamonga. She collapsed Saturday during a softball tournament.

KCAL9's Jennifer Kastner attended the vigil, organized by her teammates, held in Veteran's Park in Fontana -- the place where Housley collapsed.

It was a tearful night for the Fontana community now feeling broken by the loss.

"We just came out to pay our respects. It could have been anybody's daughter," said parent Jeff Johnson.

Hundreds showed up to honor the young woman's life.

Her father Larry Housley bravely took the mic to tell the crowd that their support was overwhelming.

"And we know that Dana felt your prayers and from the bottom of our hearts we thank you," he said.

Friends wore purple -- her favorite color.

Many friends told Kastner that Housley touched countless lives with her smile and cheerful spirit.

Friends have raised more $70,o00 to help Housley's family.

There will be a memorial service held this Friday and it's open to the public.

Public service held at:
Oakdale Memorial Park, 1401 S. Grand Ave. Glendora, CA 91740

Viewing: Thursday, June 4th, 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Memorial service: Friday, June 5th 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Light reception from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.