A gofundme page has raised more than $33,000 as the South Delta community rallies around the family of a Delta man killed in a tragic traffic collision in Ladner last week.
The fundraising page was started by family friend Kyla Gould over the weekend.
“On Nov. 28, a tragic accident took the life of Robbie Oliver from his family and friends, far sooner than anyone could have ever imagined,” Gould wrote on the page. “This tragedy has left Abby without her partner, and provider in life, and three young children without their loving father. As Robbie was self-employed there are no benefits in place to help the family during this difficult time.
“Abby needs to take the time to grieve with the children, and not have to worry about funeral costs and finances. We are reaching out for support to ease a little bit of the stress through this devastating time. Any support you can provide the family would be directly used for basic essentials.”
The page can be accessed at this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/abby-willow-kaydon-amp-brodie.
Messages of condolence as well as other offers of assistance have been popping up on several community Facebook pages since news of the tragedy spread in the community.
Family friend Jeremy Birch organized a candlelight vigil Friday evening that was attended by family, friends and others in the community just wishing to pay their respects and provide support.
“I organized the vigil the other night to help heal and to bring everyone together and get the story out, make the community aware,” said Birch. “It's never a good time to lose good people, but before Christmas it is rough. The kids need all the help they can get.”
Oliver is survived by his mom and dad, partner Abby, daughter Willow, 18 months and two boys Brodie, 10 and Kaydon, 13.
According to friends, nearly a decade ago Robbie lost his partner Nicole, the mother of Kaydon and Brodie.
“Robbie has had and continues to have amazing support from Nicole’s family in raising those great boys,” longtime friend Richie Heggie told the Optimist. “Robbie’s interest were camping, fishing, panning for gold, skateboarding, snowboarding and music. He also loved to cook amazing meals for his family and friends. He was quite the home chef.”
Heggie said “Robbie the roofer” was a classic nickname.
He said he had been roofing for more than 10 years and had recently mastered all facets of the trade.
“Hard worker doesn’t do him justice. He would carry two bundles of shingles up the ladder while most would struggle with one,” said Heggie. “He was a very talented snowboarder and skateboarder. He always pushed the limits without fear. Family and friends are overwhelmed with the support from the community. They express their gratitude for the love and support.”
Heggie said plans are in the works for a clothing drive to support the family. Look for more details on the Ladner’s Landing Facebook page as well as other platforms.
Last Thursday night police and paramedics were called to the intersection of Ladner Trunk Road and Harvest Drive.
Police say that at approximately 5:50 p.m. two pedestrians were walking eastbound in the 5800-block of Ladner Trunk Road on the north side of the road.
“One of the pedestrians then walked across Ladner Trunk Road, heading southbound,” said acting Insp. Ryan Hall. “Unfortunately it appears he tripped on the median, and fell into the path of eastbound traffic. He was then struck by a vehicle.”
The driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene, and cooperated with police.
Any witnesses to this incident who haven’t yet spoken to police are asked to call 604-946-4411 and quote file number 19-27272.
