A couple were tragically killed in a car accident the day after celebrating their seventh wedding anniversary.
Jim Mather and his wife Sabine died after a collision on the Bussell Highway in Western Australia on Sunday.
A statement from the family notes they leave behind four children.
They were so excited to build the best life they could for their children, who are now left without a mother, father, and loyal companion, all in one moment
- Statement from the family
"Their boys, aged 5 and 7, are now orphaned. Jim's daughters, aged 13 and 15, will stay with their mother. Sabine's parents will now put aside their retirement plans to raise the two boys. All the children are now trying to come to terms with the devastating fact that Sabine and Jim will not be coming home," the statement reads.
"The devastating loss of these two special people is worsened by the financial implications of providing a rich life for the children who have been left behind."
Mr Mather attended Ballarat's St Patrick's College between 1999 and 2002.
"Sabine and Jim lived a life that can only be described as "full" - of laughter, of family, of moments, of presence, and adventure. Kids in tow, they would show up for everything no matter the journey," the statement continues.
"Jim held a gravity all of his own, never turning down a challenge and encouraging those who knew him to 'just have a go'.
"Sabine and Jim were also days away from settling on their first home, a "fixer-upper" that they were very proud of. They were so excited to build the best life they could for their children, who are now left without a mother, father, and loyal companion, all in one moment."
In a statement, St Patrick's College spokesperson Paul Nolan said the school and its Old Collegians Association are "devastated by this tragic loss of life".
"We have already been in touch with Jim's classmates from the Year 12 class of 2002 to inform them of the accident," he said.
The family has launched a GoFundMe page to help with funeral costs, with the rest of the money to help with raising the children.
"We can't bring back Jim and Sabine, but we can help to ease the financial burdens that lie ahead," a statement on the page reads.
To donate, visit GoFundMe and search for Jim and Sabine Mather Funeral and Children's Fund.
