Friends and neighbours of Ed Gyoba gathered in Heritage Place Park last week to hold a candlelight vigil for him.
Darci Andersen organized the Light a Candle for Ed vigil in the park last Wednesday after the long time Ashcroft resident was found dead at his house on Cedar Cres. last Monday. His nephew, Shane Gyoba, 27, has been charged with his murder.
Susan and Sandie Maximiuk helped. Susan said between 150-175 people attended the vigil on June 4.
She said she knew Ed as one of her customers at the Trackside Diner: “Ed was so laid back and easy going, he looked comfortable when he was sitting down,” she said. That gave her the idea to raise money for a memorial bench for him.
She said they raised $885.50 at the vigil, but they need $1500, which the Village of Ashcroft purchases and places.
“It would be nice if it was on the main street somewhere. I hope that people, when they sit on it, will think and him and smile,” she said.
Bill Perry and his funeral home helped with the vigil and gave a huge donation towards the bench; Husky donated matches and Bed, Bath and Beyond in Kamloops donated the candles.
An account has been set up at Interior Savings Credit Union to accept donations for the bench. Maximiuk says they will consult with the family if there is extra money raised to see where they would like it to go.
Those wishing to donate can contact Susan Maximiuk at 250-457-9787.