Shtuka family returning to Sun Peaks to mark anniversary of Ryan’s disappearance

KAMLOOPS — It’s almost been a year since 20-year-old Ryan Shtuka went missing in the small mountain town of Sun Peaks and his parents, Heather and Scott, will be in the area later this week to speak to local media and attend events in tribute to Ryan.

Ryan’s mom, Heather, says the last year has gone by both quickly and painfully slow since her son went missing after leaving a house party in Sun Peaks on Feb. 17, 2018. Despite a year going by, Heather says they are no closer to finding her son  than they were last February.

“In so many ways it’s hard to believe it’s been a whole year,” she says.

The Shtuka family, who are from Alberta, will also be in Sun Peaks on Thursday, Feb. 14, to mark the anniversary of Ryan's disappearance and will attend a press conference with Kamloops RCMP on Friday.

Heather, who has been active on social media and constantly in touch with media outlets, says sometimes she can’t believe how composed she is talking about her missing son, especially during searches.

“When I tell people what to look for, I explain you’re not looking for white bones, they would be this colour, I can’t believe I am talking about my son,” she says. “I have to stay focused, now is not the time for me to curl up in a fetal position…I have to stand up and face the world.”

Part of the family’s visit will be to make new memories in Sun Peaks, Heather says.

“Last year was the most traumatic thing that ever happened to us, so we want to replace those memories with better memories in a place that Ryan was quite happy with,” she says. 

The family will be attending several events in tribute to Ryan including a fundraiser dinner at Bailey’s Pub in Kamloops, a candlelight vigil and a run all held in tribute for Ryan.

For past stories about Ryan Shtuka go here.

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