My name is Sarah Kuhn and I am fundraising for my friends, Annie and Stephen VanTuyl and their family.

Stephen VanTuyl died in his home on Sunday, November 27 surrounded by family after several weeks of declining health and strength.

Born in Oakland, California, Stephen grew up during the heyday of hippie culture and he embraced long hair, acoustic music and harmonizing. While on the road as a long haul trucker, he met the love of his life, Annie. They settled in Cave Junction and together remade their lives. Stephen taught himself computer programming and worked for IV data for the last 10 years.

I have joyful memories of hanging out in their backyard eating awesome hamburgers made by Stephen and listening to his songs. He played guitar and sang beautifully. He especially loved jamming with the band Jefferson, Broadway Phil, and many other musicians.

Annie, Stephen, and their dog, Lola, also loved getting outdoors together to Oregon’s waterfalls, forests, and coast. On these hikes Stephen took wonderful nature photos which depict his love for life.

Stephen was a hard-working and artistic man with a great sense of humor. Most especially, he was kind hearted and devoted to Annie.

Please donate to Annie’s fund to help cover medical bills and funeral costs, and to adjust to life (and mortgage payments) without Stephen. A celebration of Stephen‘s life will take place in spring or summer of 2023.

Thank you so much.