Fire claims all couple's possessions in RV & Car

FIRE DESTROYS EVERYTHING

Fire destroyed the motor home and minivan of Chris and Michelle Small on November 18, 2022. The contents of both, approximately 90% of everything that they owned, including their personal belongings and handyman tools, were a total loss. The Small’s were traveling from Portland, OR where they had worked for two-and-a-half months on a home remodel. They planned to winter in Alamogordo, NM on the property of Michelle’s father, Henry Uttke.

After a grueling 5 1⁄2 hour slog through Los Angeles traffic on the evening if November 17th, the Small’s were eager to sleep overnight at a rest stop east of LA. The next morning they did their normal "Morning Check" of the vehicles and got on the road. After stopping for fuel, they headed towards the Arizona border. They stopped at the Cactus City, CA rest area and Chris got out to check the fluids. Chris’ shout of, “Get out, we’re on fire!” changed their plans that day. Firefighters came from thirty miles away and worked 45 minutes to contain the blaze. Neither Chris, Michelle, nor their dog Sundance was burned. Chris sustained smoke inhalation but did not seek medical attention.

Chris and Michelle traveled by rental car to Alamogordo for the next two days. Their insurance company will pay replacement costs for the 2000 motor home and 2006minivan. There is no insurance coverage for their possessions in either vehicle

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The Small’s lived in Aurora from 2016-2021. During that time, Chris served as Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Michelle worked at Heartland Jewelry. They developed a long clientele list for their handyman business. Some of their last work in Aurora was the painting of store fronts for Grafton Law office, Susan’s Gifts, and Monet’s. They sold their home in Aurora in May 2021, and planned to live full-time in the motor home, evangelizing campgrounds and supporting themselves with handyman work.

As you know, Chris and Michelle are Bible-believing Christians with a strong faith in God. In spite of the shock and grief over this immense loss, they believe God has a good plan for them and are ready to follow as He leads. Please pray with them as they wait for the Lord’s guidance to their next job and ministry.

This letter is to inform you of the Small’s great loss, and to ask if you would like to contribute a financial gift to help the Small’s replace their personal items and livelihood. A goal of $18,000 has been set. A gift of any amount would be greatly appreciated.