GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — If you’re from the area you might know the name Tanner Denton. Maybe you know him as a classmate or teammate. He played catcher for Central not too long ago, where he became an assistant coach too. Maybe you remember him hanging around Country Club Liquors; he had goals of one day running it. But, maybe you know him as a local hero.

After a 2016 accident ended his life, his status as an organ, eye, and tissue donor has touched the lives of 122 people all over the world. “That has been part of the healing journey for me, is to know that he was a gift of life to so many people.” said Tanner’s mom, Allison Vogel.

Friday evening, at the Stocker Stadium (a place Tanner spent much of his time behind home plate) Donate Life honored Tanner and his family with a floragraph. A portrait of Tanner (made with all natural materials) that will soon be heading to Pasadena to take part in the Rose Parade. Donate Life will exhibit a float adorned with 44 floragraphs of donors from across the country, made by artists who have either received a donation or have been affected by organ, eye, and tissue donation. Tanner’s dad, Marty Denton says, a fitting destination for an avid sports fan.

Colorado boasts some of the best numbers in the country when it comes to donor designation. In fact, since Tanner’s story was shared – Grand Junction has seen an uptick in donors. For more information visit Donate Life Colorado.