We at the Eagle Valley News write these words with heavy hearts.
The unbelievably tragic loss of a father and his two young sons is a wound deeply felt by family, friends, neighbours and indeed this entire region.
Words can not do justice to the pain and sorrow such a horrific incident has brought to so many.
We wish to extend our deepest condolences to Kara Wagner and the extended family of her financé and her two sons.
It is a truth of living in a small town that such a thing touches everyone — there can be few who did not know one of the victims in some way.
While the loss is felt by all, there is comfort that the burden of grief can be shouldered by all as well.
The whole community can grieve together and offer ways to support those closest loved ones as they find ways to cope.
Indeed this is already happening.
Within hours of the terrible news, friends have already organized a benefit to raise money for Kara, who has lost more than any of us would want to imagine. And total strangers are contributing too.
It is also a way people can show this young woman that this entire region cares for her, feels for her unimaginable pain and wants to do what we can to support her.
The event for Kara is set for Jan. 20 at the legion. There are bank accounts set up at the credit union in Sicamous and the TD Bank in Salmon Arm.
While the community may be in shock, there is one thing of which we can be sure. Sicamous is a caring community and will stand behind this family.
