SLIDESHOW: CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO PLAY SLIDESHOW. Luke Gullberg with his mother, Karen. Karen Gullberg taught at Pacific Middle School in Des Moines. She died of cancer two years ago.
A fundraiser is being held to build a rock wall in honor of former Des Moines resident Luke T. Gullberg, who died on Dec. 12.
Luke died while attempting to summit Mt. Hood in Oregon, along with Katie Nolan and Anthony Vietti. The fundraiser is being held at the Seattle REI rock wall, The Pinnacle, from noon- 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 24.
Although Luke is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. In order to honor Luke's memory, this fundraiser is being held to raise money to build the rock wall at the bible camp he loved and served: Lakeside Bible Camp, located on Whidbey Island.
"Lakeside was a huge part of Luke's life and we want him to be remembered through something he loved," said Peter Livingston, close friend of Luke's and an organizer for the fundraiser.
Luke spent a lot of time at camp as a camper and serving in many areas (cabin leading, replacement staff, cooking and directing).
Luke touched many lives at Lakeside and the hope is that through Luke's Wall, he will continue to touch many more. As an avid climber, he envisioned constructing a climbing wall at Lakeside to share his passion with younger generations.
All skill levels are welcome to participate, even those with no experience.
For those who are climbing, the suggestion is a $50 minimum donation. If that amount is more than one can afford, there are sponsors and other ways to help - for example, spreading the word about the event.
Overcast Clothing Company, a company owned by two young college students who personally knew Luke, created a t-shirt in remembrance of Luke and will donate the profits from the t-shirt to the rock wall fund. They will be sold at the event for $20 a shirt.
Also, slick-looking wristbands will be giveaway items for all climbers. They are currently being sold at Lakeside Bible Camp with all proceeds going to Luke's Wall.
"For those who can't make the climb, please still consider donating. Anything helps," said Livingston.
For those who can't make it to the climb and would still like to donate, visit www.Lakesidebiblecamp.org and click on the donate button in the top right corner. You can specify that your donation goes towards Luke's wall.
For more information e-mail Peter Livingston at peterclivingston@gmail.com.