On Sunday, January 11th 2015,  Stephanie Grothe, Neil Charles Mackenzie, and Elena Cernicka perished in a mountaineering accident on Joffre Peak in Pemberton BC. 

The UBC Varsity Outdoor Club is holding a public memorial service to celebrate their lives. All friends, families, and general public are invited to this event.

Time: Thursday January 22, 6-9pm (official service 7-8pm)

Location: The (Old) Auditorium, 6344 Memorial Road, UBC. (Accros from the Music Building. Closest parking is at Fraser River Parkade.)

Many of us have fond memories of these three remarkable individuals. In order to share these memories, a set of books will be created and given to the families. There will be space available at the memorial for you to pass on your thoughts, stories, and feelings in person. However, you are encouraged to bring a pre-prepared standard letter-sized (8x11'') sheet of paper with a photo, poem, drawing, or whatever format you would like to use to express yourself. We will collect them at the event for each person and include them in those books. You are also welcome to send your message to RememberingStephNeilandElena@gmail.com, if you are not able to attend the service.

A fundraising campaign, in names of Stephanie and Neil, is set up here. As agreed by their families, all proceeds will go to the British Columbia Search And Rescue community. Any donation is much appreciated and will help the SAR teams who risk their personal safety to be there when we need them the most. A donation box will also be available at the memorial to collect cash donations. You can find a fundraising campaign for Elena's family here.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their families and friends.