Heartbreak and Resilience: A Family's Journey After Tragic Loss

In a devastating turn of events, a Utah family is left reeling after a beloved mother was tragically struck and killed by a car in Georgia. As they navigate the aftermath, the community rallies to support the family, offering comfort and assistance during this unimaginably difficult time.

Honoring a Life Cut Short, Embracing a Future Transformed

A Fateful Morning, a Shattered Dream

Leslie Schwendiman, a devoted mother of five, had traveled to Georgia with her fiancé, Steven Olsen, to attend a family wedding. On the morning of the tragedy, the couple was out for a walk when a speeding teenage driver rounded a corner and struck them from behind. Schwendiman, 53, was killed in the accident, leaving her family devastated. Olsen, who suffered a brain leak, was hospitalized but is now recovering and approved to return to Utah.

A Family Unites in Grief and Support

As Olsen mourns the loss of his beloved fiancée, the two families have come together, offering each other comfort and support during this difficult time. Tember Olsen, one of Steven's children, described her father as "the best dad we could've asked for," and expressed the family's determination to help him heal both physically and emotionally.

Preparing to Bring Leslie Home

The Schwendiman family, including Leslie's five children, are now focused on the task of bringing their mother's remains back to Utah. Walker Schwendiman, one of Leslie's children, spoke fondly of his mother, describing her as "the best" and someone who "loved everyone" and whose impact will be felt forever.

A Community Rallies to Offer Assistance

In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe account has been set up to help cover the costs of Olsen's medical expenses and the transfer of Leslie Schwendiman's remains to Utah. The community has rallied around the family, offering their support and condolences during this difficult time.

Navigating a New Future, Together

The families have vowed to stay connected as they navigate the path forward, supporting one another and honoring the memory of Leslie Schwendiman. The planned December wedding between Schwendiman and Olsen will not take place, but the families have expressed their intention to maintain a strong bond, united in their grief and determination to move forward.