Scholarship started in memory of Daniel Lovegrove

An education fund has been set up in memory of Peachlander Daniel Lovegrove, who tragically lost his life in August 2011 while trying to save the life of a friend. (Photo contributed)

by Dave Preston

Twelve months after suffering a horrible loss, the Lovegrove family of Peachland is speaking out to say thank you and to announce a new gift to higher education students in memory of a young man lost.

Monday marks the one year anniversary that Daniel Lovegrove died and a hero was born. Daniel was 21-years-old when he tragically died on August 13, 2011.

Daniel was out hiking with friends near the Gold Panner Campsite near Cherryville. One of the friends, 20-year-old Scott Lawler, slipped on an unstable embankment. Daniel grabbed Scott in one hand and a tree in another.

The tree Daniel was holding onto gave way. Both young men fell to their deaths.

“Through our grief we never were able to thank all the people who reached out to us,” said Kerry Lovegrove. “We received condolences from strangers throughout BC and Alberta.”

“Daniel was employed with Starbucks and they assisted not only us, but his colleagues too,” said Kerry. “The day after his death, they closed his store as the staff was overcome with grief. They generously provided staff and beverages as his Celebration of Life. Save-On Foods provided food trays also.”

Kerry said the August 13th tragedy was a horrible event. “The last year has been extremely difficult for his friends and family.”

“At the time of his death, Daniel was hailed a hero for sacrificing his life,” said Kerry. “Friends and family wanted to remember and honour him.”

To do just that, the Daniel Lovegrove Memorial Education Fund Society has been established. Daniel was raised in Edmonton and went to university at UBCO. He lived in Peachland for four years before his death.

“We will be providing scholarships and bursaries to post secondary students attending a recognized university in Alberta or BC who are enrolled in a four-year bachelor’s degree program,” said Kerry.

One document is left to file and the society will be granted charitable status. That means any donations received in 2012 will qualify for a tax receipt.

“We now need applications for the scholarships and bursaries,” said Kerry.

Details for applicants are available at www.daniellovegrove.com. Young people seeking scholarships and bursaries for the 2012/2013 school year need to apply by August 31, 2012.”

“Of course, donations are always welcome too,” said Kerry.

Family and friends of Daniel Lovegrove will assist with the pancake breakfast at the Westbank Lions Market, Saturday, August 11, on Main Street in West Kelowna to raise money for the education fund.

They will also be at Bliss Bakery in Peachland on Sunday, August 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.