“I never die.”

Radium Hot Springs resident and renowned wood carver Rolf Heer is in the hearts and thoughts of Columbia Valley residents and, indeed considering his larger than life persona, people all around the East Kootenay and world.

Already battling a terminal illness the always affable valley artist, master of trees and legendary character’s downtown Radium home and compound of fun and adventure went up in flames.

Shortly after the fire was in full fury, dressed in a pink house coat and his red wizard hat, Rolf posed for a photo in front of the blaze, holding a red solo cup. He posted the image on Facebook with the words “I never die.”

Anyone who knows Rolf, from a one-time visitor getting a spritz of water in the face whole turning the wrong door knob, to his dearest and many friends, knows those words are truth.

One day after the fire, as the rubble of his life’s belongings and home smoulders, Rolf’s friends are rallying for him, with donations being accepted in two areas.

Franz Schwabl (of the Old Salzburg Restaurant) and Dustin Gottinger have opened a fundraising bank account at Kootenay Savings Credit Union.

“We are not using go fund me or any other platform that takes commission. The email on this page will soon be linked to the fundraiser bank account for E-Transfer. Nov.27. Anyone planning to make a donation by E-transfer click “send message” button to contact Admin with password details for your transfer,” Schwabl said.

Please go here for more details.

For anyone wishing to pay in person the bank account number will be shared on the (above linked) Facebook page Nov. 27, as well so anyone can visit a Kootenay Savings bank and donate. Any cheque donation will be accepted at the bank as well.

“If you live out of town we will be providing a mailing address for that as well. We encourage all in the community to pitch in any way they can, no matter what size help or donations are appreciated,” Schwabl said.

A gofundme account has also been established for Rolf

“Knowing Rolf, he would never ask for help so let’s rally behind this wonderful man and show him that we are there for him,” the fund administrator asks.

Help Rolf the Wood Carver gofundme

– Ian Cobb/e-KNOW

Article Share