2 killed in Winfield Township crash remembered, funds raised
A 12-year-old Saxonburg football player and his grandfather who were killed in a car crash Friday, Oct. 13, were honored and remembered by friends and family over the weekend.
Zane Rupert, and David Faulx, 65, of Saxonburg, were pronounced dead at the scene of a crash at the intersection of Winfield and Brose roads in Winfield Township.
Police said the crash occurred as Faulx’s Jeep Wrangler took a sharp right hand turn, crossed into the southbound lane and hit a tractor-trailer head on. The Jeep landed upside down. Faulx was not wearing a seat belt, but Zane was, police said. The truck driver suffered minor injuries.
Zane was in seventh grade at Knoch Middle School and played for the Saxonburg Spartans 12-and-under football team. In addition to the game, his obituary said he enjoyed his pets and playing video games.
“He was always being a jokester and trying to make people laugh,” the obituary read.
The Saxonburg Spartans posted on Facebook in honor of Zane on Saturday, saying gate fees from the game would be given to his family and a moment of silence would be held.
“He was a force on the team and was vital on our line. To say that he will be missed isn't adequate, the impact he has had on those around him will be long felt,” the post read. “Our sincerest condolences to Zane’s family, his teammates and coaches.”
A fundraiser was started on GoFundMe.com by Zane’s aunt, Ashley Mazur-Pettigrew. The initial goal was to raise $5,000 to help Zane’s parents with funeral expenses. As of Monday evening, Oct. 16, the 229 donations amounted to $14,355.
Zane was described on the fundraiser page as an incredible young man, son and brother.
“He was the sweetest grandson, nephew, an adventurous cousin, and a wonderful friend to so many people. His bright smile and energy always lit up a room,” the page stated.
Zane is survived by his parents, a sister, and grandparents, according to the obituary.
A vigil was held in honor of Zane at New Life Christian Ministries on Saturday night. Pastors were available for people to speak with, and prayers were said for Zane’s family. The family was not in attendance.
On Sunday, Oct. 15, a letter was sent to parents of Knoch School District students from superintendent David Foley, informing them about counseling services in the district.
“Our hearts go out to his family and friends as they mourn this unthinkable loss. Even as we mourn ourselves, it is important that we be attentive to our children’s reactions to this news,” he wrote. “This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns and questions from Zane’s peers. We want families to know that our entire district counseling staff will be on hand and available in the days and weeks to come, should any student seek their assistance. Please encourage your child to talk about what he/she is feeling.”
Faulx was born in Natrona Heights, according to his obituary. He was employed as a tool and die maker for Siemens, a manufacturing company, and was a member of the Saxonburg VFW. He loved shooting pool, traveling and sitting by the campfire, his obituary read.
Faulx is survived by his wife of 44 years, a sister, two daughters, and a granddaughter.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Fox Funeral Home in Saxonburg.
Funeral services will be private.
