Fort Collins, CO : Thompson CFO Steve Towne killed after a head-on crash in Fort Collins on Thursday night, January 29, 2015

Thompson School District Chief Financial Officer Steve Towne died early Friday morning after a head-on crash in Fort Collins.

The community was reeling as the news of Towne's death hit with multiple people describing him as kind, intelligent, dedicated and with extraordinary wit.

“He was a team player and a giant of a man, and he dearly loved his family,” said Superintendent Stan Scheer.

“He has left a hole in this community that cannot truly be replaced.”

Towne was driving a 1995 Chevrolet Geo southbound on Taft Hill Road about 7:10 p.m. Thursday when a northbound pickup truck drifted into his lane north of the intersection with Harmony Road, Colorado State Patrol Trooper Josh Lewis said. The vehicles hit head-on, according to Lewis.

Towne was rushed by ambulance to Medical Center of the Rockies, where he later died from his injuries.

A 14-year-old passenger in Towne's car was not injured nor was the driver of the pickup, 58-year-old Alton Massey of Fort Collins.

Troopers are still investigating what caused the truck to drift across the median lane, but they do not believe excessive speed or impairment was involved. Charges are pending completion of the investigation.

As the investigation continues, news of Towne's death spread through the community and the district for which he had worked since 2005. As the chief financial officer, he managed all financial aspects of the district.

“Steve was so much a part of what this district is all about,” said Scheer. “It's difficult to believe that he is really gone. His character was always demonstrated by his actions.”

Towne was loved and respected throughout the district, by the school board members and the community and was always willing to share his expertise, said Bob Kerrigan, president of the school board.

“I was incredibly devastated when I heard the news this morning,” said Kerrigan. “Whenever I think of Steve, I always think of the word integrity. He was such an honorable person. He was an outstanding leader for the district, and we will miss his dedication and extraordinary wit.”

Towne lived in Fort Collins with is family.

Out of respect for his family, coworkers and the community, the school district has postponed all regular board meetings until Feb. 18. That includes the meeting that was previously scheduled next Wednesday, Feb. 4.

Source :
UPDATED: Thompson CFO Steve Towne killed in car crash