The fire which involved a structure fire along with two cars and a subsequent brush fire drew a substantial response with Osoyoos and Oliver fire departments as well as a BC Wildfire Service Initial Attack Crew, helicopter and bird dog spotter aircraft all working to stamp out the fire.
The Babtiste’s said the home, which was a complete loss, was “the home they built together and have lived in since 1989 – the home where they raised their three children, Wade, Ryan, and Taylor; where they made countless memories; and where they built a life rooted in love, family, and hard work.
“Losing it all in minutes has been heartbreaking – but most importantly, our parents are safe,” they added.
Richard & Colleen Baptiste.
Contributed photo
The three note it was a “complete freak accident: A spark from mowing the grass turned into flames that engulfed the first wall within minutes and spread rapidly.”They expressed their deep gratitude to the Osoyoos and Oliver Fire Departments, helicopter crews, and BC Wildfire Services “for doing everything they could to protect others nearby. We also raise our hands to the Osoyoos Indian Band, community members, and extended family who have shown up with so much care and support.”
“Our parents lost their entire home, workshop, and everything inside – clothing, daily essentials, original photos, artwork, cherished keepsakes, irreplaceable cultural and family belongings, and the tools they used for sewing, hunting, and building a life together.”
They note that insurance will help eventually, but it could take weeks or longer before further assistance comes through due to paperwork and processing times.
In better days – “the home they built together and have lived in since 1989 – the home where they raised their three children, Wade, Ryan, and Taylor; where they made countless memories; and where they built a life rooted in love, family, and hard work.”
“We’ve created this GoFundMe to help them cover what they need right now – clothes, shoes, food, medications, toiletries, basic personal items, and immediate health and living expenses – so they can focus on resting, healing, and taking the first steps toward recovery.””If you feel called to help, any amount means the world to us and will go directly to our parents,” they appealed and those who aren’t able to donate they ask for help sharing the GoFundMe page or even just sending a message of support as it “means just as much”.
“Thank you for your kindness, care, and generosity during this time. It truly means everything to our family,” they said, signing off with love and gratitude –
Wade and Sherry, Ryan and Lauren, Taylor and Brett.
The fundraiser can be found here (gofund.me/2f154240), or by searching GoFundMe for “Support for Richard & Colleen Baptiste After House Fire”.
