By DREYMA BERONJA

Journal Staff Writer

MARQUETTE — A local pizzeria is planning to hold a memorial benefit for a Northern Michigan University student who passed away on Sunday after a car accident.

Carson Needham, a third- year student from downstate Traverse City, died in a car accident on Sunday. Needham was a communications studies major with a minor in music, playing in the drumline for the NMU Marching Band. Needham was also a percussionist in the Jazz Band.

Third Coast Pizzeria in Marquette announced on Instagram that a memorial benefit will be held in Needham’s honor on Friday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. to help his family with funeral expenses. Twenty percent of the daily sales will be donated to Needham’s family.

“Our hearts are heavy losing someone who was special to so many people,” a Third Coast Pizzeria Instagram post said. “Carson was dedicated to his family and friends and worked hard at everything he did always putting forth his best. He was someone who always had you laughing and could make you smile with the smallest of comments.”

Third Coast Pizzeria is located at 227 W. Washington St. For more information visit online at thirdcoastpizzeria.com.

Dreyma Beronja can be reached at 906-228-2500 ext. 248. Their email address is dberonj@miningjournal.net