My little cousin, Julia Amstutz, lost her father, Gary Amstutz, due to the intermittent power outages happening across Kern Valley in late June.

Many knew him as a man of many words, especially when it came to socioeconomic inequities. Shortly before his death, he spoke out that the planned power outages during a heatwave would harm the most vulnerable. He was right.

Julia was Gary’s world. He gave her all he could, even if resources were tight. Unfortunately, he didn’t have anything set up in the event of his passing. She’s now trying to do all she can to handle his affairs, despite living 200+ miles away.

As a new college grad with limited financial resources, the entire process is a bit overwhelming. Those who know her situation also understand she’s not only resolving his affairs, but helping her disabled mother while staying in Mt. Mesa. She has received some support, but we wanted to open this fund just in case anyone would like to contribute to her in Gary’s memory!

Funds will go toward helping to ease the burden of taking time off work, traveling back and forth to clean out his home, handling after-death legal/administrative matters, and planning a memorial service if possible.

Anything that anyone can share would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!