COLUMBUS JUNCTION - A car crash that killed two young Columbus Junction boys is creating an unlikely friendship. The crash happened early last month on County Road G-40 in Louisa County. The boys' stepfather lost control of the car on the snow-covered road and struck an oncoming vehicle. The 11 and 9-year-olds died at the scene, but their stepfather and the other driver survived. Now The other driver and his family are now throwing a benefit in honor of the boys.

“They were wonderful boys, had beautiful smiles, I miss so much about them,” says Stacey Meyer, the boys’ mother.

Stacey Meyer misses so much about her only two children, 11-year-old Cody and 9-year-old Tanner. The Ray brothers, as they were proudly called, lost their lives in a car crash last month, leaving Stacey and the boys' stepfather, Kyle Meyer, clinging to family photos for memories.

“My boys were my world, they still are, now that they're gone it's like I have to learn life all over again,” says Meyer.

Dealing with everything following the crash, the Meyers didn't expect to form a friendship with the other driver and his wife. But Kevin Dean, a father of four, took the first step, attending the visitation and sharing his sorrow.

“I had to look her in the eye, Kyle too, and tell them both I was sorry, accident or not,” says Dean.

The hugs and tears that followed surprised both families and began a companionship of comfort. It also led to the idea of organizing a fundraiser to cover the funeral expenses, and to help family and friends remember the boys.

The benefit will also help pay for Kyle's medical costs and a new home since the Meyers say they just can't go back to the one they shared with the boys. The fundraiser is Saturday, March 29, at the Circle of Pride Rodeo Grounds in Conesville. Games for children start at 3:00 p.m., and dinner begins at 5:00 p.m. Anyone and everyone are invited to come. You can mail donations to Kevin Dean, 15783 County Road G40, Columbus Junction, IA 52738.