The Edson community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Laura Huitema, who tragically passed away on March 8, 2025, following an accident at Eastlink Park Ski Hill. Her sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
A fundraiser has been established to assist Tim and Azalea with immediate expenses, funeral costs, and the long-term financial needs of their young daughter. Michelle Diduch is organizing this fundraiser titled “In Memory of Laura Proud (Huitema)” stating: On March 8, 2025, our beloved Laura was tragically taken from us in an accident at Eastlink Park Ski Hill. Her passing was sudden, devastating, and left a hole in the hearts of everyone who knew her. She was the best kind of person – kind, selfless, and full of light. She had the purest soul and a heart that embraced everyone she met.
Thank you for your love, kindness, and support.
Michelle Diduch shared “Tragedy has struck our community, and we need your help.
Laura was tragically taken far too soon, leaving behind her loving husband and their 5-year-old daughter. Her family now faces unimaginable loss and financial challenges. Please consider donating or sharing to help support them during this difficult time. Every bit helps.”
Mayor Kevin Zahara posted “This weekend Edson lost a remarkable human being. The amount of sadness being felt in our community is overwhelming. Laura Proud (Huitema) was one of Edson’s biggest advocates, highly involved in the community always sharing kindness, a large smile and many laughs. She touched so many lives. We are all heartbroken by this loss. Tim & Azalea, our community is with you during these difficult days. A GoFundMe has been started for anyone interested in donating.”
Chris Valliere mourned his death “In absolute shock tonight to see a post or two show up on my Facebook. To only continue to see the posts and realize the worst. Life is too short and before we know it things can change so suddenly. Laura Huitema I cherish all the great memories we had, even if they were years ago. Keep in mind these years seem like yesterday.
From our first encounters playing slopitch, to all the shenanigans we were involved in at the chamber of commerce events to even some later years seeing you enjoy the sport of golf with Tim and your little one. 
My heart aches. I know these last few years we may not have hung out as much as we use to but those missed years will never replace all the fun memories I had with you prior. The world lost one of the best today! Fly high friend, you will be forever missed but never forgotten.”
Leah Bathgate Snethun wrote “
I woke up this morning to some devastating news. Laura Huitema, I literally just made you tell the girls about this video on our zoom a couple weeks ago. Everyone was also obsessed with your @golfanddawgs account on Instagram.
are going to do without you. My heart is shattered…. For them, and for the fact that you’re gone.If you can, please donate to their fundraiser. I also have an email address if you’d prefer to send directly to the family.”