In Memory of Steve Van Pelt
My name is Esther, a friend of Steve and Katelyn's. As many of you know, over the weekend, we lost a dear friend, brother, son, and husband. Katelyn and Steve's family have appreciated all the kind words, prayers, and outpouring of love and support. As we mourn and grieve the loss of Steve, many of you have asked how you can help be there to support his loved ones. We have created this GoFundMe for those that feel led to financially bless and support Katelyn and his family during this time.
The funds will go directly to Katelyn when this GoFundMe is done and will be used for things like a more reliable vehicle, groceries, and other general living expenses.
The family would love to read how Steve impacted those around him. Please leave a story about Steve that you love or share something about Steve that really stood out to you in the notes.
On behalf of Katelyn and his family, THANK YOU for your generosity and for sharing your stories and love for Steve.
From Julie, Steve's sister on behalf of Katelyn and their family:
On Friday, July 23rd Steve Van Pelt and a dear friend made it to the top of Mt. Jefferson. They spent an incredible day together, and Steve was on cloud nine. They were on their way down when his friend saw Steve slip and fall hundreds of feet. From the way he fell, we know that his end was immediate. Every effort has been made, but crews were not able to spot him and the ravine where we believe he is resting is inaccessible. There is no more appropriate tombstone for Steve than Mt. Jefferson.
My brother is capable of doing anything. Building anything. Fixing anything. He is the most talented person I know. He takes risks, but is not reckless. He thrives on adrenaline. He is invincible. He is my safe place. My best friend. My hero. We’ve lived all of life together. We’ve traveled through the highest and lowest parts together. He knows me authentically. He knows my heart. He knows my hurts. And he knows how deeply I love and admire him because we did not leave any of those words unspoken.
I thought that we were going to keep traveling this path together. It just doesn’t make sense that it can be over when he’s not finished yet. When his dreams are still sitting in the driveway. When his perfect other half is still here, broken. Maybe life doesn’t follow a neat story arc the way that I believed. Maybe clichés are our greatest form of wisdom and truth. "Life is short." "Accidents happen." And maybe even "Time heals all wounds"?
My brother is, and has always been, a part of this mountain. He is, and has always been, a part of this rugged landscape. He is, and has always been, a part of this wilderness. Manicured grounds could never hold him. There is no other place where he could be at rest.
I don’t understand. I don’t know how I’ll ever be okay again. But I know that he wants me to be. I know that he is okay. He’s just off on his next adventure.
