Our hearts are broken by the unexpected loss of Santiago Yanez (Santi) a deeply loved son, brother, grandson, family member, and friend. 
Santiago was a kind, respectful, hardworking young man with an incredibly gentle heart. He was a graduate of Spring Creek High School, where he filled his years with experiences and friendships through activities including band, cheer, and football. As he grew into adulthood, that caring nature became part of the work he chose to do. Santiago worked as a caregiver, dedicating his time to helping and caring for others. It was a reflection of the kind of person he was.

Santiago also had a deep appreciation for taking care of his body and living an active life. His mother, Violeta Alexandra Rowland, is a CrossFit trainer, and through her he developed a love for fitness, strength, and caring for himself. He loved lifting weights, challenging himself, being active, and spending time outdoors.

Nature was one of the places where Santiago was happiest. He loved hiking, exploring, and simply being outside. Lamoille Canyon held a special place in that love. It brings his family some comfort to know that his final moments were spent surrounded by the beauty of nature, in a place where he was happy and doing something he loved.

But more than any accomplishment or interest, Santiago was someone’s child. He was a son who was deeply loved, a brother, a grandson, a friend, and a young man with so much life still ahead of him. To those who knew him, he will be remembered for his goodness, his smile, his strength, his good manners (Todo un caballero el niño hermoso!) and the love he brought into their lives.

Gimarie Pitts and Jenny Bell are organizing this fundraiser to help carry some of the burden they are facing during an unimaginable time.

Funds raised will help with Santiago’s funeral and memorial expenses and the family’s immediate needs as they grieve and make arrangements. His mother is currently working through those arrangements, and we expect to know the full funeral costs tomorrow (Monday, November 2nd). We will update the fundraiser as more information becomes available. Right now, our hope is simply to give this family the space to grieve their son without also having to carry the financial weight that comes with such an unexpected loss. For those who would like to help in other ways, we are also accepting meals, gift cards and cash donations. we are willing to meet locally to collect these on behalf of the family, but currently our preferred method of receiving any donation is through his mothers Venmo @VioletaAM (Alex didn’t asked for this to be set up but we are trying to help and let her know she’s not alone and her family is important in our community ). Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference. If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing Santiago’s fundraiser and keeping his family in your prayers is just as deeply appreciated.

In loving memory of Santiago Yanez. May he always be remembered for the life he lived, the people he loved, and the joy he found in this beautiful world. ❤️