Herbert Ray “Bert” Snelling, 57, was a contractor who was at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center to talk about a permit when he was killed on May 31.

Although he was born in Norfolk, Snelling lived in Virginia Beach for most of his life. He was married to his wife for 38 years, and had two children and eight grandchildren.

Snelling was a Class A contractor and a carpenter who “loved to create with his hands,” according to his obituary. He opened his own company, named Standing Firm Builders Inc., and eventually began building homes in Virginia Beach. Later, he closed his company but continued his career as a warranty manager and a project manager with Eagle Construction.

Snelling was a courageous and kind person who loved his wife deeply, according to a GoFundMe opened in his honor. It had raised more than $20,000 by Wednesday morning.

“We know that Bert was immediately safe in the arms of Jesus but he will be deeply missed here on earth,” the GoFundMe states. “Please keep this family in your prayers as they navigate this new life.”

A service will be held in Snelling’s memory at noon on June 8 at London Bridge Baptist Church.

Read Snelling’s full obituary here.