Congregation remembers youth pastor killed in Pacific crash
BONNEY LAKE, Wash. -- A horrific crash in Pacific claimed the life of a young pastor on Monday, leaving a big void in one Bonney Lake congregation.
While the driver police say caused the crash sat in jail, Pastor Sam Stevens was honored by the congregation he helped lead.
"Sam was happiness and joy. He could light up a room with his music and his talent," said church member Darrin Simmons.
Stevens was a person who inspired people to reach for their dreams, Simmons said.
For four years, Stevens was a pastor and worship leader at the East Point Church in Bonney Lake. He was an exceptional musician whose passion for the music was visible to all.
On Monday night, hundreds gathered to pay their respects at his vigil by celebrating the life he led and the people he touched.
"He's one of those individuals that had the unique combination of being one of the loudest people I've ever met, and one of the most humble. And when you got to know the guy, he just had so much humility about him, and that's what kept people," said band member Nick Schmal.
The accident that claimed Stevens' life happened around 2 a.m. Monday. He was returning home after dropping off his sister and brother-in-law when a Ford F-350 pickup truck crossed the center line on Stewart Road and slammed head-on into his Toyota Echo.
Perhaps the most heartbreaking story for this parish and this church is for Stevens' fiance. The two were set to get married in just two short weeks.
"Yeah, Sam is going to be sorely missed, but there are other people that get the ripple effect. You know, hopefully that family will be touched by life, and how short it can be," said church member Catharine Hamer.
The man driving the pickup truck was taken to a hospital, but is expected to be OK. He has since been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His name has not been released.
While the driver police say caused the crash sat in jail, Pastor Sam Stevens was honored by the congregation he helped lead.
"Sam was happiness and joy. He could light up a room with his music and his talent," said church member Darrin Simmons.
Stevens was a person who inspired people to reach for their dreams, Simmons said.
For four years, Stevens was a pastor and worship leader at the East Point Church in Bonney Lake. He was an exceptional musician whose passion for the music was visible to all.
On Monday night, hundreds gathered to pay their respects at his vigil by celebrating the life he led and the people he touched.
"He's one of those individuals that had the unique combination of being one of the loudest people I've ever met, and one of the most humble. And when you got to know the guy, he just had so much humility about him, and that's what kept people," said band member Nick Schmal.
The accident that claimed Stevens' life happened around 2 a.m. Monday. He was returning home after dropping off his sister and brother-in-law when a Ford F-350 pickup truck crossed the center line on Stewart Road and slammed head-on into his Toyota Echo.
Perhaps the most heartbreaking story for this parish and this church is for Stevens' fiance. The two were set to get married in just two short weeks.
"Yeah, Sam is going to be sorely missed, but there are other people that get the ripple effect. You know, hopefully that family will be touched by life, and how short it can be," said church member Catharine Hamer.
The man driving the pickup truck was taken to a hospital, but is expected to be OK. He has since been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His name has not been released.