Tree to honor boy who died in accident

Friends and family of a Carson City boy killed in a car accident last June will be holding a ceremony and planting a tree Saturday in Genoa to celebrate his life.

Joshua Spuehler, 16, suffered fatal injuries in the accident June 2, 2001, after performing at Genoa's sesquicentennial celebration with other Carson High School drama students.

"The sesquicentennial celebration was held here last year, so the park rangers and everyone were there when the tragedy happened," said Dianne Hale, organizer of last year's event and involved in the organization of Saturday's memorial. "They were more than happy to donate the use of the park for the service."

Hale said the celebration will begin at 10 a.m. at the Mormon Station Park pavilion and there will be refreshments, poetry readings and original songs written by Josh's brother. A tree planting ceremony and placement of a commemorative plaque will follow.

"I hope people come out," she said. "The dad has done so much for so many kids in this town,

Immediately following the accident that involved three others, including the the driver who later pleaded guilty to failure to maintain a lane, friends of Josh painted their vehicles with his name, others put decals on their windows and a scholarship was begun by an anonymous donor in his name.

This year's recipient was Katie Gradert.

Josh's name was also on the list of graduates for Carson High School's 2002 ceremony held June 8.

"It's amazing to me to think that his young man had such a great impact on so many people," Hale said. "He continues to touch peoples lives. I hope they can say a fraction of that about me when I'm gone."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Joshua Spuehler memorial

WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday

WHERE: Mormon Station State Park