On Sunday, March 12th, a beloved Sooke father, husband and son passed away suddenly near Otter Point.
42-year-old Mike Leier was thought to be injured in a remote wilderness area near Jordan River and tried to make his way back to his home in Sooke, but didn’t make it further than Otter Point Park.
According to Sooke RCMP, at around 9:45 p.m. in the evening, they received a call from West Coast Road near the park, but before they or paramedics could get to Leier, it was too late.
Since then, a family friend has started a GoFundMe page for Leier’s family so they will not have to worry about daily costs, childcare and funeral arrangements.
“I have set up this [GoFundMe] to support my best friend and her two small children while they navigate through these difficult times,” wrote Tatiana Ellis.
“Unfortunately, Monday morning Heather received the news that no one wants to receive. Her husband and father to her two children had suddenly passed.”
“The community has lost such an incredible person, he was a husband, father, friend and a son. He will be missed dearly and has left such an impact on so many people’s hearts.”
Ellis included in the fundraiser write-up a request for respect for the family’s grieving and privacy.
As of this publication, the campaign has raised over $6,000 of the $10,000 goal.
In the words of support section of the GoFundMe page, an outpouring of support, love and condolences are being passed along to the Leier family.
“A good man, taken far too soon. Rest easy Mike, you will be missed by many,” said Jody Skinner.
“Love to Heather, Roman & Reese, family and friends. Thinking of you all through this tragic time.”
Those who are interested in donating to the GoFundMe can do so here.
Vancouver Island Integrated Major Crime Unit has taken the lead on the investigation of Leier’s death due to circumstances they believe to be suspicious.
