Despite fire, family celebrates Thanksgiving

Though a tragic fire destroyed the Sarver’s family home Thursday morning, the family was able to celebrate Thanksgiving.
“I’m still in shock,” said Jeremy Sarver. “You just don’t expect these sorts of things to happen – and not on Thanksgiving. But we’re still going to have dinner at mom’s house.”
Sarver’s mother, Sharon, added, “We are thankful everyone is alive. That’s all that counts.”
Fayette County 911 said the fire was reported around 11:30 a.m. at 257 Mae West Road between Markleysburg and Confluence in Henry Clay Township. Many fire departments battled the blaze for several hours, but the home was a total loss. No one was hurt.
Jeremy Sarver said the fire started while he and his fiancée, Janet Savage, were trying to deep fry a turkey on the back porch when things took an unexpected turn.
“As soon as the water hit the oil in the deep fryer, everything started bubbling up and it was like a volcano going off,” he said.
The fire spread quickly to the house.
“Everything happened very quickly. We got out with just the clothes on our backs and not much else,” said Jeremy Sarver, who was dressed in his sweat pants and shirt. Temperatures were in the low 30s and there was a light dusting of snow.
Sarver said his 6-year-old son Daniel lost his prized Hotwheels car collection, but he was not the only one to lose a favorite toy.
“My model trains are gone,” he said. “I’ve been collecting them for years. Daniel and I had a room where they were set up. He had his Thomas the Tank Engine trains and I had mine. “
Sarver said his family lost more than toys, but dishes, pots and pans, furniture – everything. He thanked folks who didn’t hesitate to help a family in need.
“People from the community have started to help us out – thanks,” he said.
Ira Hammond, a neighbor and friend, reached out through social media to help his friend.
“They lost everything,” he said. “They need furniture dishes, cups, bowls, plates, clothes – you name it. We’re all very concerned about the family. It’s hard when this happens especially at this time of year.”
Sharon Sarver said her son’s family will be staying with them until they are able to move into an apartment nearby. She said anyone wishing to assist the family can contact her at 724-329-5325.