Funeral arrangements have been made for Jennifer Haskell, a Ball State senior sports exercise science major who died Aug. 13 due to injuries sustained during the State Fair stage collapse.
Arrangements were made through the Meeks Mortuary and Crematory and the Washington Street Chapel.
A calling will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Monroe Central High School in Parker City, Ind. The service will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday at Monroe Central High School.
EARLIER:
Jennifer Haskell, a Ball State senior exercise science major, died Friday morning of injuries she received at the Indiana State Fair stage collapse on Saturday.
Haskell is the sixth fatality as a result of the stage collapse before a Sugarland concert.
Paul Nagelkirk, associate professor of exercise science, said he was the teacher who was closest to her in the department.
"She was quiet in class, but she was diligent and attentive, and she never had any problems asking questions. She got along great with her classmates."
Shannon Washburn, an Indiana State University education student, said even though she didn't know Haskell as well as she knew Alina Bigjohny, Haskell's best friend and an incoming Wilson Middle School teacher who died when the stage collapsed, it was obvious that she was an exceptional person.
"She was always there for people, no matter if you didn't like her or if you didn't believe in things she believed in. She'd always be there for you," she said. "She lived for today definitely because it didn't matter what she wanted to do. She'd wake up and do it. Nothing would stop her. She had a lot of heart for everyone she knew."
Haskell's family released a statement asking for privacy, and thanking people for their support.
"After a long courageous battle, Jenny Haskell died at 8:15 [Friday] morning from her injuries sustained from the tragedy at the State Fair," the statement said. "Jenny's family would like to thank everyone for their support and prayers during this difficult time. Continued support and prayers for the remaining victims would be greatly appreciated."
After receiving the news, President Jo Ann Gora released a public statement.
"The Ball State community is deeply saddened to learn of Jenny's passing," she said. "I extend to her mothers, father family and friends my deepest sympathies. Jenny was a dedicated student both in and out of the classroom. As the semester begins, I ask that the campus and our visitors take a moment to appreciate her hard work to make campus beautiful as a student landscaper.
"She took deep pride in her contributions to the campus. And as a passionate Cardinal, she loved cheering for the women's basketball team. The Ball State family will continue to hold Jenny's family and friends and everyone affected by this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers."
Prior to transferring in 2009, Haskell attended Manchester College to study fitness and sports management. Haskell played softball and basketball through high school at Monroe Central High School and college. Haskell planned on becoming an athletic trainer.
On Thursday, Walt Wiltschek, a Manchester College campus pastor, said Haskell's condition declined throughout the week.
"When I talked to [family friends] earlier in the week, they sounded fairly hopeful," he said. "The latest reports [weren't] as positive [Thursday]. There was some swelling of the brain that is not unexpected after accidents like this, unfortunately."
Haskell received head injuries when a wind gust knocked metal scaffolding holding lights and other equipment into fans waiting on a Sugarland concert.
For updated information, keep checking bsudailynews.com
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