On Sunday, July 12, our lives were forever changed by an unimaginable tragedy. Matt and Krystal Vowell were tragically killed when their motorcycle was involved in a collision. The crash also claimed the life of a young mother who was a rideshare passenger in the other vehicle. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with her family and loved ones as they navigate this devastating loss, along with everyone whose lives have been forever changed by this tragedy.

Matt and Krystal lived life with open hearts. They were the kind of people who never hesitated to help a friend, lend a hand, or be there when someone needed them. Whether through their love of riding or simply showing up for those around them, they built lifelong friendships and treated so many like family. Their kindness, generosity, laughter, and unwavering willingness to help others touched countless lives, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.

Together, Matt and Krystal built a beautiful blended family. They leave behind Matt's daughter, Mattalyn; Krystal's son, Robert Wood Jr.; and their beloved 13-year-old son, Dakota.

As Dakota prepares to begin his freshman year of high school, he is now facing life without either of his parents. Robert, who lives in the family home, is stepping forward to assume guardianship of his younger brother, ensuring Dakota can remain surrounded by the love, stability, and support of the family he has always known.

This tragedy has also profoundly impacted Krystal's parents, Fred and Dee Wittschack. They are grieving the unimaginable loss of their daughter and son-in-law while helping support their grandsons through this heartbreaking transition.

Mattalyn, who lives in Florida, is also mourning the sudden loss of her father alongside the rest of the family.

As the family navigates the days ahead, Krystal's sister, Jodi, has lovingly taken on the tremendous responsibility of coordinating funeral arrangements and helping guide the family through the countless decisions that accompany such an unexpected loss. Her strength and dedication have been an immeasurable blessing during this incredibly difficult time.

Robert is a member of Local 602. While his employer has graciously given him the time he needs to care for Dakota and help his family through the days ahead, he does not have paid leave, meaning this time away from work comes with a significant financial impact.

We are asking for your support to help ease the financial burden this family now faces. Donations will help cover funeral and memorial expenses, provide stability and care for Dakota as he begins this next chapter without his parents, and help the family navigate the many unexpected expenses that accompany such a sudden and heartbreaking loss.

Donations from this fundraiser will be received by Robert Wood Jr. on behalf of the family and used to support Dakota and assist with expenses related to this tragedy.

If you knew Matt and Krystal, you know they would have been among the first to step up for someone in need. Now it's our turn to surround their family with the same compassion, generosity, and love that they so freely shared with others.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping Dakota, Robert, Mattalyn, Fred and Dee, Jodi, the family of the young mother who also lost her life, and everyone affected by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers.

On behalf of the family, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time.