Olivia Rourke’s energy, compassion and leadership left a lasting impact on everyone around her, according to her family and friends, who continue to honour her legacy through community initiatives and charitable work.
The 17-year-old Walkerton student was among four local teens and their coach who died in a crash on May 23, 2025, while returning home from a school softball tournament in Dorchester. Known affectionately as “Livy Wow,” Olivia was recognized for her involvement in sports, her dedication to helping others and her ability to connect with people of all ages.
Her parents, Dan and Jen Rourke, said stories shared after her death revealed just how deeply she influenced those around her. Friends described her as someone who brought excitement and positivity into every moment.
Olivia’s passion for giving back was evident even before her death. Inspired by her mother’s cancer journey, she organized a basketball fundraiser supporting breast cancer research. Family friend Derek Mayne said Olivia stood out for her maturity and compassion, especially in the way she supported her mother through chemotherapy treatments.
To continue her impact, loved ones launched the Olivia Rourke Foundation shortly after the tragedy. The organization focuses on cancer care, youth-led community projects and supporting women in sports. The annual Hoops for Hope basketball tournament, created in her memory, has already raised $20,000 for cancer research.
Olivia also made a strong impression as a gymnast and coach at Hanover Aerial Gymnastics, where organizers said younger athletes naturally gravitated toward her warmth and encouragement.
Additional fundraising efforts are continuing, including a planned cycling event from Collingwood to Montreal called Ride for Liv, organized by Olivia’s uncle in support of the foundation.
Her family says the foundation is a way to carry forward Olivia’s spirit, generosity and love of life, while those closest to her believe it also gives others a chance to understand the remarkable impact she had in just 17 years.