'We haven't been alone'

POST FALLS — When members of the Geisinger family were struck with the death of their 8-year-old son and brother, Phillip, they were met with open arms by the community.

It's as if the family, which moved to Post Falls from Cleveland during the winter, has lived here for years.

"The support has been as if we're local natives," said Nickie, Phillip's mother. "Money, flowers, chocolates, stuffed animals, meals, cards even from people we don't know, hugs … There were a lot of faces we didn't even recognize at the chapel (during the funeral on Thursday)."

Phillip died on May 2 when he was riding his bike in his quiet Pine Villa neighborhood and was struck by a car driven by Chadd Webster, 22, Post Falls. Police investigators haven't determined who was at fault. Phillip was wearing a helmet.

Webster was driving with a suspended driver's license and had an outstanding traffic warrant for failing to appear on a previous charge of driving with an invalid driver's license. He was arrested at the scene and booked into jail on the warrant as well as possession of drugs (heroin) and drug paraphernalia. He remained in custody on Friday. An investigation continues.

The community's response to the tragedy has reassured the Geisingers that this is the place for them after they fell in love with the area while vacationing here.

"We haven't been alone," Nickie said.

Neighbors, Darrin's employer SCAFCO, churches such as Heart of the City, Real Life Ministries and Zion Baptist, English Funeral Chapel and others have been among those who have supported the family. Funds will be used for hospital expenses not covered by insurance, travel expenses for some family members who couldn't otherwise afford to attend the funeral and other costs associated with the death.

Darrin said when the family drives through the neighborhood he can tell people are wanting to help and express their condolences, but are also being careful not to invade their privacy.

"You can tell they’re aching and wanting to talk to us," Darrin said. "It's been very touching. We've had spontaneous street buffets and we've set up tables because there has been so much food. We're eternally appreciative."

One of their neighbors opened their cabin for the family on Hayden Lake and allowed Teddy, Phillip's 6-year-old brother, to steer a speed boat.

The support and their faith are helping the Geisingers cope with Phillip's death.

"It's been painful in the flesh and we miss hugging him, but in spirit we know he's in heaven and that has given us strength," Darrin said. "We've been able to share that with others, too."

Nickie said she and Darrin have spoken to Webster's parents, who live near them.

"We realize they also have a very heavy burden and we don't want to let any walls come up between the two families," she said. "We want to make sure that they know that we are here for them as well. There's no unforgiveness in our hearts. Accidents happen."

Darrin said he and Nickie also want to leave the door open to talk with Webster when the timing is right for both sides.

Langston, Phillip's 14-year-old brother, said he'll remember Phillip for his love for animals, especially birds, and people.

"He always hung around with me and my friends," Langston said.

On family outings, Phillip would be the one to be ahead of the pack.

"That epitomizes how we feel," Darrin said. "We're not leaving him behind because he's far ahead of us. Now we've got to catch up."

It’s not too late to help.

Pilgrim’s Market, 1316 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, will donate all proceeds to the Geisinger family from juices and smoothies sold at its deli this weekend from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Neighbors of the Geisinger family have also set up a benefit account at all local Numerica Credit Union branches in Phillip Geisinger’s name to assist the family with expenses associated with the death.