Community reaches out to family struck by tragedy

Sisters continues to reach out in support of the Tapias family, struck by a tragedy just before Christmas.

Maria Aviles Tapias was killed in a single-vehicle accident on Highway 20 east of Sisters on Friday, December 23. Tapias, well-known to many in the community as part of the Rancho Viejo Mexican Restaurant family, leaves behind five children, the youngest 3 years old, the others 9, 12, 15, and 19.

A GoFundMe page created by Cenobia Gonzalez of Sisters had raised $56,243 to assist the family as of last weekend. Other direct fundraisers and donations have provided support as well.

“This is a devastating loss for her family,” Gonzalez noted. “She was dearly loved in her community and made everyone around her laugh.”

Tapias, 38, died when the vehicle she was a passenger in slid on ice heading west toward Sisters just before 4 p.m., left the roadway, and struck a tree. The incident occurred near the Sisters Rodeo Grounds. Maria Tapias was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tapias worked two jobs to help support her family. Funds will help defray medical bills, living expenses for the children, and funeral costs. The family’s needs will be ongoing. To contribute to the GoFundMe fundraiser, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-marias-family.