Cedar City remembers 10 crash victims
Thousands turn out to mourn clinic team killed near Moab
Thousands of people gathered on the campus of Southern Utah University to mourn and celebrate the lives of those who died. Bigger-than-life portraits of the victims were displayed on the stage, overlooking more than 180 family members who sat in rows on the floor of the Centrum Arena.
"Mourning is one of the deepest and most profound expressions of love," said SUU President Michael Benson, whose remarks were punctuated with pauses while he struggled with his emotions. "Our community has banded together in our grief. We have forged stronger bonds because of our attendance tonight."
Benson was one of several speakers at the special memorial who shared poignant memories of those who lost their lives: Dallin Ellsworth, Lansing Ellsworth, Cecilee Goddard, David Goddard, Valerie Imlay, Mandy Johnson, Keith Shumway, Marci Tillery, Camie Vigil and David White.
Nine were employees of Red Canyon Aesthetics and Medical Spa dermatology clinic, while White was the aircraft's pilot.
"I feel like you. I feel a resolve to help," said Leavitt. "These last six days have given me a unique window to this tragedy. While it is deeply saddening, it is also filled with light. I have seen families in the depth of mourning reach out to others."
Dr. Robert Nakken, an orthopedic surgeon, reminisced about his longtime friend, Dr. Lansing Ellsworth.
"He enjoyed the simple things in life, like milkshakes," Nakken said. "When I think of what makes our community great, it's the people. In talking to many people about this tragedy, they say, 'it must be a dream,' or wonder, 'why, why did it happen?'"
Tragedies like these are pivotal moments in our lives, he said.
"This is our challenge, in their absence. We can only reconcile this tragedy by the way we live our lives," Nakken said.
Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. also spoke, noting personal accomplishments or unique personality traits of those who died.
"In the face of this truly unspeakable tragedy, what can we say when no words can express our sorrow? What can we do?" said Huntsman, whose voice seemed to be worn and rough with grief. "We can unite and love one another. Please know that you do not mourn alone. We unite as a state. We pray for comfort, strength and understanding."
Huntsman said he took a measure of comfort in knowing that the 10 who perished were on a "mission of mercy."
Recent comments
I would like to thank the people of Cedar City for a Wonderful Memorial…
Good Job Cedar City | Aug. 29, 2008 at 4:41 p.m.
This was a beautiful service and a very appropriate way to celebrate…
Very nice | Aug. 29, 2008 at 10:39 a.m.
