NORTH ATTLEBORO - The late Marine Capt. Kyle Van De Giesen leaves a legacy with the birth of his son Tuesday.

Van De Giesen's wife, Megan, gave birth to the couple's second child, Colin Joseph, late Tuesday afternoon at Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Newton, family members say.

The baby weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces.

"The birth went very well, and both Megan and the baby are very healthy," said Ruthann Van De Giesen, Kyle's mother.

She noted the baby has lots of black hair. Family members have gathered at the hospital, and they are unsure when Megan Van De Giesen and the baby will come home, but expect it to be soon.

Colin Joseph joins a sister, Avery Grace.

Kyle Van De Giesen, 29, was killed Oct. 26 in a midair helicopter crash in Afghanistan. He has been lauded as a hometown hero, having fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a military helicopter pilot.

Last Friday, hundreds packed St. Mary's Church to give a farewell to Van De Giesen, honoring his character and courage.

Van De Giesen, a 1998 North Attleboro High School graduate and then-star football quarterback, was remembered for his dedication to family and his drive to achieve his goals.

Van De Giesen is also survived by his father, Calvin; sister, Caitlin; and brothers, Ryan and Christian Van De Giesen.

"Your newborn son will be a constant reminder of what we have lost and, more importantly, what we have gained," Calvin Van De Giesen remarked at the funeral.

Among those mourning the loss of the young man at Friday's funeral were several dignitaries, including Gov. Deval Patrick, U.S. Sen. John Kerry and U.S. Rep. James McGovern.

Following the service, many, including numerous students, honored Van De Giesen by waving flags as the funeral procession moved through town and traveled to the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, where he was buried with full military honors.

A memorial fund has been set up to assist Van De Giesen's wife and children. Anyone who wishes to make a donation can can mail a check to the Capt. Kyle R. Van De Giesen Memorial Fund, c/o Bristol County Savings Bank, Attn. Sandy Vandette, 96 Commonwealth Avenue, North Attleboro, MA 02760.