Thousands remember boy, 7, who died in Columbia River crash
CLACKAMAS, Ore. – Thousands gathered Sunday to remember a 7-year-old boy who died when his father’s truck slipped off the freeway and landed in the Columbia River.
Jake Arntson died in the crash near Mosier, Ore. on Monday. He and his father were on their way back from visiting Jake’s uncle in Montana when the truck slipped on ice on Interstate 84.
His father, John Arntson, escaped and swam to shore. He wasn't able to save his son.
Sunday, Jake’s family and friends remembered him at a memorial at Clackamas High School, where his father is the baseball coach. More than 2,000 people attended.
“I’ve never really experienced something like this before, and you know, you’re thankful for all the support and the prayers,” said Tom Bohlman, John Arntson’s assistant coach.
Speakers remembered Jake as a bright, energetic boy who left a big impression on his kindergarten teacher.
“He was so happy and proud, carrying his first grade picture to me,” said Jake’s kindergarten teacher Debbi Tubergen. “I got one of those special hugs and smiles that only Jake was famous for.”
Some of those who attended wore special shirts bearing Jake’s name and flag football number. The grass outside the Clackamas High School gym also carries Jake’s name and football number.
“Just such a smiley, mischievous, energetic little kid that just – he was like a little brother to all these kids out here,” said Jennifer Harris.
“Jake was a beacon of God’s goodness and love to everyone he knew,” said Tubergen. “He may have only been seven years old, but to me and his classmates Jake was a superhero.”
Friends, family and community members raised $12,000 at a fundraiser on Friday to help pay for funeral costs. His family said they will donate any money left over to charity.
Glad the boy left such a great legacy at an early age. It's unfortunate when we lose "the good ones".
Unfathomable loss. Unfathomable car accident. On a day like any other. How does this happen?Â
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So much sadness and sorrow.Â
My heart especially goes out to the dad... cannot even begin to imagine the pain he must feel... Â such a tragic event on all levels...Â
@margay1 ......yeah. That poor man. I can't begin to imagine how he lives with this.
 @Rob C 503  @margay1 The loss is very tragic. Let's all hope for the family's healing and peace in time and good memories  of their loved one fueled by the support of so many others who care.
 @margay1 Mine too, that poor man is going to play the accident over and over in his mind.
 @minniemouse  @margay1 You really think that? I  really hope not. I hope he heals by holding on to the good memories of his son. Sometimes loved ones are taken in spite of everything and it's like things end up in the hands of God no matter what.
This is so tragic. So, so young. Hug the ones you love. It can all come to an end in a heartbeat.
My thoughts sent from colorado... It always hits harder when its from home... and hardest when a child.Â