In a heart-wrenching display of resilience amid unimaginable grief, a father whose young son was killed in last month’s devastating crash at Horseshoe Bay has penned a powerful message of love that has resonated deeply across communities. The emotional tribute, shared widely on social media, offers a glimpse into the profound bond between parent and child while serving as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility.
The fatal accident, which occurred on June 26 at the popular West Vancouver ferry terminal, claimed the lives of two people when a vehicle plummeted from the upper level of the terminal onto a loading ramp below. Among those lost was 4-year-old Atlas Kozak-Perreault, whose father Jordan Kozak has now broken his silence through an open letter that captures both his anguish and his enduring love.
“Life with Atlas was a gift beyond measure,” Kozak wrote in his tribute. “Every morning began with his smile, every day filled with wonder through his eyes. He taught me more about love in his four years than I had learned in all my life before him.”
The crash investigation continues as authorities work to determine what caused the vehicle to breach safety barriers at the terminal. According to police reports, the incident occurred during peak travel hours, sending shockwaves through the busy transportation hub and prompting renewed discussions about safety measures at similar facilities across Canada.
Community response to the tragedy has been overwhelming. A memorial of flowers, toys, and handwritten notes has grown at the crash site, while a GoFundMe campaign established to support the affected families has raised over $200,000 in less than three weeks.
“The outpouring of love from friends, family, and even complete strangers has been our lifeline during these darkest days,” Kozak noted in his letter. “While nothing can fill the void Atlas’s absence has created, knowing how many lives he touched brings a measure of comfort.”
What makes Kozak’s tribute particularly moving is his emphasis on celebrating his son’s life rather than dwelling solely on the circumstances of his death. He describes Atlas as a child who “loved dinosaurs, building towers just to knock them down, and chocolate ice cream with rainbow sprinkles.” These intimate details have resonated with parents across the country, many of whom have shared their own reflections on cherishing moments with their children.
Mental health professionals have noted the healing potential in Kozak’s approach to grief. Dr. Elena Mikhailov, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and loss, told CO24: “Finding ways to honor loved ones and keep their memory alive can be an important part of the grieving process. By sharing stories and celebrating who Atlas was, his father is creating space for both his pain and his love.”
The tragedy has also sparked important conversations about road safety and infrastructure at transportation hubs. Transportation safety experts have called for a comprehensive review of similar facilities, with some advocating for enhanced barrier systems and improved emergency response protocols at terminals across the country.
As the investigation continues, Kozak’s message serves as a powerful reminder of what matters most. “Hold your children tight,” he wrote in the closing lines of his tribute. “Tell them you love them every day. The dishes can wait, the emails can wait, but time with those we love is the only true wealth we possess.”
In the face of unspeakable loss, one father’s tribute has become a testament to love’s enduring power and a call to cherish what truly matters. As communities continue to support those affected by this tragedy, perhaps we might all pause to consider: How might embracing Kozak’s message of presence and appreciation transform our own relationships with those we hold dear?
