AUBURN -- Martin Short Sr., was a rare breed among men.

Even two days before losing his battle with cancer last January, Martin was worried about how he would load his UPS truck so he could make deliveries to his customers.

Sarah Polhamus said her husband worked 15 hour days, putting in the extra work for his customers no matter what they needed.

On Sunday night, the community came together at Auburn's Ukrainian National Club, to show their support for a man who was always willing to do anything for his family, friends and community.

Art Wenzel, the master of ceremonies, said the community showed up to put the event on with door prizes, auction and raffle items donated by local businesses. And with more than $1,300 raised in the 50-50 raffle, the community really showed how much they cared, Wenzel said.

"We are grateful for whatever we can get," said Marie Fiore, Martin's ex-wife, who helped plan the event, said. "I cared about him, he was my son's father. I wanted to do something for him, his family and his kids to let him know there were people who cared and that he didn't have to worry as much."

The event was busy with people dancing to the band Bob Piorun and the Convertibles and Wenzel calling out names for various prizes and people enjoying dinner or scouting out what auction items they would be interested in bidding for.

"We got some big ticket items," Wenzel said. "We are going to get people to bid against each other and have some fun."

Wenzel was not kidding. When he started the auction, several couples got into bidding wars for items such as a one-night stay at Bonnie Castle in the Thousand Islands or an overnight stay at the Springside Inn. Several items would end up selling for more than $100, with all of the proceeds going to pay Martin's medical expenses.

For more, read Monday's Citizen