This has been a very difficult weekend for the families and friends of two men from Steinbach, Man. after they were killed in a collision Friday afternoon.
The collision occurred early Friday afternoon west of Kenora, Ont., on the Trans-Canada Highway near McCallum Point Road.
The Ontario Provincial Police have yet to confirm the fatalities as related to the collision, however, two fundraisers are underway to help alleviate financial concerns for both families. Few other details have been released as of yet. The highway was closed for several hours while emergency crews responded to the crash near Clearwater Market.
While the cause of the crash hasn't been released, mild temperatures and freezing drizzle in places had made for icy conditions. There were several incidents along the busy highway on Friday, stretching from West Hawk Lake on the Manitoba side of the border to east of Kenora in Ontario.
A Go Fund Me account has been set up for the daughters of Colin Clay.
The fundraiser is organized by Michelle Schulz, an aunt to Avery and Ella.
On the fundraising page, Schulz writes, “Colin was a fantastic Dad who loved his girls more than anything. He was a kind and generous person who would help anyone. Now his daughters need help as they will be without his love and support. Until everything is settled, they will need funds to live and support themselves.”
The goal is to raise $25,000 for the girls.
The family and friends of Jon Martens are also grieving this weekend.
Dana Cyrenne has set up a Go Fund Me account in support of his family.
On the fundraising page, Cyrenne writes, “On behalf of Larry, Deborah and Tristan, who have suddenly and tragically lost their son and brother, Jon, we hope to raise funds during this difficult time to help relieve some of the burdens.
"Jon was a bright, loving, caring gentleman loved dearly by his family and friends. It is a terrible loss to such a wonderful family.
"The family has been part of the Steinbach community for many years and is usually the first to reach out and lend a helping hand and love to those in need.
"We would love to take this opportunity to give them back some of the love and support they have shared over the years to their friends, family and community.
"There are (sic) no amount of money, words, or gifts that can fix the heartbreak his family is feeling. However, we felt this would allow us to come together to lend them as much support as possible during this devastating time."