Joint funeral held for two teens killed in crash that left five dead

By Canadian Press on May 31, 2025.

Two teens killed in a crash near London, Ont. just over a week ago were remembered Saturday for their contagious smiles that “could light up absolutely everything.”

Hundreds attended the joint funeral service for Olivia Rourke, 17, and Danica Baker, 16, at the Walkerton Community Centre, along with nearly 1,000 who tuned in to a livestream.

The pair were killed along with two other girls, Rowan McLeod and Kaydance Ford, and their 33-year-old coach Matt Eckert, who was a teacher at Walkerton District Community School, when their sport utility vehicle collided with another SUV and a transport truck on May 23.

The five had been returning from a softball tournament in the area.

Rourke was described by her cousin Rae in a eulogy as “the spunkiest, sassiest and coolest little girl,” adding that her “witty jokes, positive energy and sassy remarks could bring a smile to anyone’s face.”

Baker’s cousin Aislyn said she left a mark on everyone she met through her infectious smile, her goofy laugh and her positive and thoughtful presence.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2025.

The Canadian Press