‘Our small town was changed forever:’ Community shows support for Penticton family

“On April 15, 2019, our small town was changed forever,” reads a GoFundMe started for the family of one of four victims from the tragic shooting in Penticton this week.

Darlene Knippelberg was identified a one of the four victims in the fundraising campaign, which will go towards her son Gary and his family.

“This sudden loss has impacted the family in many different ways. Losing a parent is one of the hardest times a family can go through, but losing her is such an unexpected way is unimaginable,” reads the campaign.

“Gary, along with his wife, Lorita, are now dealing with the loss of his Mom as well as taking care of his special needs sister.”

The money raised from the campaign will go towards costs for the funeral as well as medications for Gary’s sister, travel for his son from Vancouver, as well as any other unforeseen expenses.

The campaign adds that the goal is for the family to not have to deal with any more stressors than they have already been given.

“Gary has worked for Radec Group for 5+ years and is the kindest soul you could come upon. He is selfless, dedicated to his family and a hard worker,” says the GoFundMe.

“We want to show them the love and support Gary has given us, and in return help his family through this difficult and emotional time.”

A candlelight vigil was held to honour the victims on Wednesday evening in Gyro Park. The community came together to remember the four people killed in the public shooting on Monday afternoon.

RCMP Supt. Ted De Jager said he wanted to assure the families and friends of the victims that support is available to them.

“I’m very proud of this community,” he said. “The way it rallied.”

“I said there was darkness here but there’s also brightness in a community that can stand behind the victims and the families of those victims.”