My name is Kaitlyn, and I am creating this GoFundMe on behalf of my father and stepmom after our family was unexpectedly changed forever on August 12.

At approximately 8:38 AM, the Wyoming Highway Patrol was alerted to a serious crash on Highway 14/16/20 at mile marker 32.3, just east of Wapiti. According to the Cody Wyoming Highway Patrol, a Ford pickup traveling eastbound crossed into the oncoming lane and struck two motorcycles traveling westbound. The impact caused two additional motorcycles behind them to crash. A WYDOT vehicle that was following the motorcycles attempted to avoid the truck, but the Ford struck the WYDOT vehicle’s tailgate before continuing into a field and coming to a stop.

My father was one of the people involved in this tragic accident, and sadly, he was unexpectedly taken from us. My stepmom also suffered serious injuries and was life-flighted to Billings, Montana, where she is receiving care. We are praying with everything we have that she makes a full recovery, but we know she has a long road ahead and will likely be unable to work for quite some time.

My dad was so many things to so many people. He was a son, father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. He had a way of cracking a joke and making anyone laugh, but one of the things I will always remember most was how much he loved his grandchildren and how much he loved to spoil them. He was still my dad, and losing him so unexpectedly has left a hole in our family that words cannot describe.

While no amount of money can ever take away this pain, we are asking for help to ease some of the financial burden that has suddenly fallen on our family. Donations will go toward funeral and burial expenses for my dad, as well as medical expenses and other costs associated with my stepmom’s recovery and time away from work.

If you are able to donate, no matter the amount, our family would be incredibly grateful. If you are unable to donate, we completely understand. Please consider sharing this fundraiser and, most importantly, keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this unimaginable loss and pray for my stepmom’s recovery.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out, prayed for us, shared their love, or offered support during this heartbreaking time. It means more to our family than you will ever know.