As many people around the valley have heard, Skylar Stock, a 27 year old Tempe firefighter, was killed on Monday, December 7, 2009 while hunting outside of Payson. While sleeping in a tent a tree was snapped by a high-wind storm and fell on him, killing him instantly. Here is a link to the story from ABC 15. Skylar is 
survived by his young wife Kari and their 3 children, ages 4, 2.5 and 10 months. Skylar was my brother-in-law and this has hit very close to home. While many of us struggle with these realities in life it has been quite amazing being around Kari and seeing her strength throughout this last week. Skylar was a selfless individual always eager to help others and do the right thing. He chose a well-suited career path and had only been with the Tempe Fire Department about 2 years, but had been aiming for this career his entire life.
The funeral this past weekend was quite amazing with the amount of support from family and friends and including the Tempe Fire Department and other departments. The service was extraordinary and it was a true, uplifting celebration of his life. Skylar will sorely be missed and I can only pray that these circumstances help us all re-focus our purpose and our goals in life. His young children don’t quite grasp what has happened but still have a sense of their father missing; however, they are surrounded by strong people and support and I have the utmost faith that the entire Stock family will move forward stronger than ever and with peace in their hearts. Words can never express enough sympathy to help someone through, but it is the simple ”I’m sorry” that is a genuine heart-felt expression to those who have suffered a loss. To Kari and the kids, I’m sorry. I love you all and we will all be here for anything that you need.
For those interested in helping out the Stock Family, there are 3 ways you can help. You can donate directly to the Stock Family Donation Fund at any Wells Fargo bank. The account # is 7218152986.
For those who may not have access to a Wells Fargo, you can donate via Paypal by clicking here.
There is also a fundraiser set for Thursday, December 17, 2009 at any Chili’s Restaurant in Mesa, Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert. For those who may have planned to eat out, if you do so on Thursday at Chili’s and mention the Stock Family, they will contribute 10% of the bill to the Stock Donation Fund. If you can donate in lieu of eating out it will benefit the family more; however if you planned to eat out or want to get together with friends, please go to Chili’s and eat that night, and tell your friends. Print this coupon and share it with whoever you can.
Well put Chris. To the Stock family, I am sorry.