Heartbroken Family Asks for Help in Upstate New York

Family Mourns Loss of Father in Upstate NY

An Upstate New York family mourning the loss of a loved one created a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs, bills, groceries, and more after a Gloversville man tragically lost his life over the weekend in a UTV accident on Sacandaga Lake.

Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and the community mourning this sad tragedy.

According to the New York State Police, the incident happened Sunday morning after 8 am. That's when they responded to the area of Chupka Road in Mayfield, NY, for the report of a side-by-side utility task vehicle (UTV) through the ice of the Great Sacandaga Lake.

Two Men Were in the Vehicle at the Time

State Police say that William D. Gifford, 37, of Gloversville, NY, had another person on board at the time of the incident, and bystanders managed to rescue both individuals from the water before emergency services arrived.

Gifford was unresponsive when he was removed from the water and transported to St. Mary’s Hospital, where he later died. William's friend Jason, with whom he was riding,  survived the harrowing ordeal.

Heartbroken Family Asks for Help

Aaron Tubbs, Gifford's cousin, created a GoFundMe page to help the family cover funeral costs, groceries, and anything else his children may need. In just one day, they've received nearly $14,000 in donations.

Here's, in part, what they wrote:

"William leaves behind his beautiful fiancée, a 4-year-old daughter, a 2-year-old son, and a stepson. Our family never imagined we would face something like this. William was a hardworking man who always did his best to provide for his family. He overcame incredible odds to become the man he was."

The family noted that anyone unable to donate can help by spreading a positive message about Gifford's life and legacy.

Adding, "It would mean just as much to us. We are deeply grateful for your support during this time of grieving."

If you'd like to donate, click here.