Strathroy teenagers killed in rollover remember being ‘full of life’

Two teenagers from Strathroy, Ontario, who were killed in a rollover accident last week are remembered for being « tough, fiery and fun » and having a love for animals.

Lola Fentie, 16, and Aleah Van Erp, 17, died in a single-vehicle rollover at Middlesex Center on December 22.

Middlesex OPP says the vehicle left the carriageway around 10.30am on Amiens Road, just south of Melrose Drive Center near Komoka. Police also said two other people were taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and a fifth person suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Fentie died a week short of her 17th birthday and was at the end of the year at Strathroy District Collegiate Institute, planning to pursue a career in nursing.

“Lola was a hardworking young woman who could accomplish anything she wanted,” said her cousin Trish Rice, who set up a GoFundMe campaign for the family. « She was accepted into every university nursing program she applied to and is said to have helped many people as an amazing nurse. »

Rice said Fentie’s love for her family and friends is endless and she also has a number of pets.

The online fundraiser had received over $20,000 at the time of publication.

« Lola has a tough, feisty and fun personality. Her smile could light up an entire room, » Fentie’s obituary read. « She loved being with her friends and was always happiest around the people who meant the most to her. »

Van Erp is remembered for his love of animals. According to her obituary, she planned to become a veterinarian.

« Aleah was full of life. She had a big heart for animals, caring for them and being with them was her true passion, » reads her obituary. « She loved being outdoors and exploring nature. She loved the wildflowers, the trees, and walking among the green grass and blue skies. The beach was her happy place. »

Van Erp is also known to be an active teenager.

« You could always find Aleah dancing in the kitchen, cartwheeling in the grass, or showing off her endless flexibility. »

A visitation was held for Van Erp on Wednesday afternoon, with his funeral taking place at 6 p.m. at Dernning’s of Stratroy.

Fentie’s visit will take place Friday at Denning’s from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. His funeral will be Saturday at 10 a.m.