As anniversary of fatal flash floods approaches, Upper Makefield gathers to honor victims

One year ago this month the skies opened up and chaos rained down in Upper Makefield, claiming lives, doing damaging and leaving a community mourning.

On the anniversary of the fatal flash flooding on Route 532 on July 15, the community will gather to remember the victims and that day in 2023 when heavy and sudden rain would engulf the area of Houghs Creek in Upper Makefield.

Upper Makefield Township, alongside The Crossing church, is holding a memorial service with local police, firefighters, and township supervisors for the victims and their families at 6 p.m. on Monday, July 15.

All members of the community are invited to attend to reflect and honor the lives lost. Additionally, three trees have been donated by Baumley Nursery & Landscaping to The Crossing. They will be planted alongside two garden plaques with engraved names of the victims.

A look back: Remembering the seven lives lost in July 15, 2023 Upper Makefield fatal flood

The Seley-Sheils Family

Conrad Sheils was the youngest victim of the Route 532 flash flood. Just nine months old, Conrad was swept out of his family's arms while they sought safety from the flood. After an extensive search by the Upper Makefield Police Department and hundreds of search-and-rescue workers, authorities called off the search for Conrad's body, which has still not been found.

Matilda "Mattie" Sheils was just two years old when her life would be tragically cut short by the Upper Makefield flash flood. Her family was visiting Pennsylvania from South Carolina, and were on their way to a family barbeque when the torrent of rain began.

Kathryn "Katie" Seley, the mother of Mattie and Conrad, was 32 at the time of the flash flood which claimed her life. Working as a elf-employed nanny, Seley left a “spunky, fun-loving, captivating and vibrant,” legacy. Conrad, Mattie, and Katie are survived by their loving friends and family, including older brother Jack, Katie's partner Jim and grandmother Dahlia, all survivors of the flood.

Remembering the Seley-Sheils family: Mom and two children left legacy

Enzo and Linda DePiero

Enzo DePiero was 78 years old and a retired civil engineer for the New Jersey Department of Fish and Gaming. He was returning from dinner with his wife when the couple got caught in the flash flood that would claim both of their lives. Born in the northern Italian town of Cordenons, DePiero was the architect responsible for building his family's home in Newtown Township. Zack, the son of the DePieros, remembers the construction of the house fondly, describing his dad as a "big do-it-yourselfer."

Linda DePiero had just finished dinner at her favorite restaurant and was driving home when a flash flood swept her away. Known for her kindness and generosity, Linda had recently celebrated her 41st anniversary with her husband, Enzo. She is remembered by friends and family as "the most thoughtful woman."

2023 flash floods: Remembering the DePieros

Yuko Love

Yuko Love was 64 when she lost her life in the flood as she was traveling in a car with her husband Dave, who survived. She was a frequent visitor at the Newtown Athletic Club, where she took Zumba classes and was known for her positive, outgoing personality. Yuko originally met her husband in a college choir. They would eventually settle in Newtown Township, where they shared a home for 23 years.

More: Yuko Love was known for her kind, loving spirit

Susan Barnhart

Susan Barnhart was 53 and well-known in the community as she worked in the Washington Crossing Post Office, where she was remembered for her joyful, attentive and caring personality. A passionate animal lover, Barnhardt was with her beloved dog Kota, who miraculously survived the flood, when the pair initially became trapped in the water.

More: Susan Barnhart's legacy of love and care

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Upper Makefield fatal flash flood victims honored at anniversary