In his all-too-short time on this planet, Scott Mullins touched many lives, but the one he never had a chance to touch was that of his unborn daughter.
Scotty Rae Mullins came into the world two weeks after Scott, just 33 at the time, died of a heart-related problem last October.
Not having life insurance, Scott and his wife Cristina’s many friends and family have rallied around the pair to lend whatever support they can.
That includes two trust accounts, one for Scotty Rae’s education and a second just to help with day-to-day living expenses.
Part of the fundraising activities includes this Friday’s event organized by Natalie Ferebee and Connie Tweedie at the Lakeside Resort. Over 400 tickets have already been sold.
“I guess the biggest thing is that Scott was such a personable guy, so much so that if you met him only once he was a good friend, he treated you with respect and kindness and brought you into his light. The world today is truly a sadder place without him,” said Ferebee, a long-time family friend. “Scott knew everybody, he was just such a genuine guy and was taken too soon. You know what, the very first day you met Scott it was like you had known him for 50 years. Just the salt of the earth, would give you the shirt off his back and help anyone with anything.”
According to Ferebee, nearly 800 people attended Scott’s funeral services at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and for the fundraiser, which includes a live and silent auction and a raffle, nearly 200 items have been donated.
So many things in fact, if the maximum number of tickets allowed were actually sold there wouldn’t be enough room for people and the items.
“It’s insane,” she said. “It ranges from golf to spas to beer, there’s nothing you won’t find here.
“Cristina and Scotty Rae are overwhelmed by the support that Penticton has shown for them and their family and want to thank everyone and anyone out there who have supported them.”
Scott and his twin brother Dale operated Scottsdale Concrete.
Rod Ferguson is another good friend of Scott’s who has also stepped up to the plate to help the family by setting up the education fund for the little girl with the goal of raising $40,000. He personally will match any donations up to $20,000.
“The focus should be on Scotty Rae growing up and learning about her dad and how kind and caring a person Scott was,” said Ferguson who met his friend when they were 18. “It never mattered how bad a day you were having, because once you saw Scott and his love for life, Cristina and his friends ... it was so infectious that he always made you smile and forget your troubles.
“We want Scotty Rae to grow up and have the opportunity to do the things that her dad would have wanted her to do.”
Friday’s fundraiser begins at 6 p.m. and if any tickets are still available they can be purchased at the Lakeside.
For anyone who would like to contribute to either of the accounts, the education trust fund is at National Bank Financial, attention Mark Bowland.
The other is at the TD Bank, Transit number 9285, account number 6178894.