By, Tom Townsend, General Manager, Emerald Outdoor Advertising

It seems that even in the joy of the Christmas Season, the reality of life can also sneak up on us.

The morning of Nov 8^th, 2022, about 11:00 AM, I received a call from the Stevens County Coroner.  They informed me that Chris Sanders, 52, a long time billboard installer, sadly and tragically passed away that morning.  Chris was returning from a billboard installation in Eastern Washington.  He was traveling on Hwy 395, hit a patch of black ice in a shaded area and slid head on into another car. He, along with his wife May, who happened to be traveling with him that day, were not wearing seat belts and were both ejected from his truck.

Chris was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.  May sustained multiple injuries and was air lifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, WA.  She has survived her injuries and was released from the hospital on Nov 30 and is currently rehabbing on the West side of the State at Chris’ sister’s house.  All things considered she is doing well and it’s a miracle she is alive.

Chris started installing billboards when he was sixteen.  He worked all over the Northwest and other surrounding areas.  He worked for practically every Outdoor Company in that area.  While slight of build Chris was strong as a bull, showed little fear but was always safe on a structure.  His finished product was as good as it could be.  He took a lot of pride in his work.  He was an excellent employee and installer.  His two favorite things, outside his wife, was being on a billboard and traveling to far off locations to do an installation.  He died doing what he loved.

Chris will be missed.

Insider’s Thoughts: Always so sad to hear of the loss of a friend and valued employee.  Insider did find out that there is a gofundme account to help Chris’ wife May with medical and funeral costs.  If you would like to donate here is the LINK to the site.  In your next safety meeting, review this case and stress to your employees the importance of wearing seatbelts.

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