By Chad Klassen

Gatey family honoured by memorial benches in daughter’s name

Jun 28, 2017 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — It was November 4 of last year when Jennifer Gatey, on the eve of her 17th birthday, was struck and killed while waiting at a bus stop on Pacific Way.

The driver of the vehicle that hit her did not stop and drove away, and Gatey died at the scene. It was an incident that shook the city.

On Wednesday the students at Pacific Way Elementary who fundraised for two benches in Jennifer’s name officially unveiled them in front of Jennifer’s father Cameron Gatey. 

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“It means a lot that there is a permanent memorial to Jennifer,” said Cameron. “She won’t get to live the life that she could have, but there will be something that will cause people to wonder who she was.”

It’s Cameron’s hope people remember his daughter like he does — as a kind, loving soul that would do anything for anyone. 

“She was kind and thoughtful, and I recognize that I’m her father and I’m biased, but I think she was a wonderful kid. I can’t think of anything that ever happened where she didn’t do anything but make me very proud of her.”

It’s one of two benches. The other is in front of Pacific Way Elementary, organized by Kennedy Michels with help from classmates.

Cameron showed his appreciation during the official unveiling, and the kids conversely showed him their love for Jennifer and the entire family, which has been grieving the last eight months while thinking about all the special moments Jennifer has missed and will miss in the future.

“It’s certainly been tough, really tough on Jennifer’s mother. It’s been tough on me as well. But it’s been tough on everybody that’s in our circle,” said Cameron. “Our son just got married a week ago and Jennifer wasn’t able to be there.”