GoFundMe Organized To Help Young Montauk Family Through Tragedy

In our present day world where fairness, justice and certainly grace seem to be lacking, it is always and forever comforting, reassuring and inspiring when a community reaches out to help a fellow citizen during a heartbreaking and tragic time.

Such is the case with Dylan Huber, who recently launched a GoFundMe for the family of his close friend, Dan Scheffer. Scheffer’s wife, Deborah Lee, or “Debi” or “Debbie” as she preferred to be called, recently passed on February 9, at the tender age of 36, from complications following the birth of their second son, Benjamin. The couple have another young son Coen (age four).

Known to her family, friends and community as a loving mother, wife and friend, the Montauk couple were married for 12 years. The couple moved to Montauk approximately four years ago to care for Dan’s aging grandparents. Dan’s grandfather was a well-known caretaker in the area and upon his passing, Dan assumed that role in the community. The family suffered yet another loss at the passing of Dan’s grandmother, Charlotte, just three weeks prior to the death of Debi. Charlotte was well-known to community members for her work with the Montauk Library.

Speaking with Bethany, Dan’s sister, who lives in Los Angeles, “We came to attend services for Charlotte, and our mother, who lives in Vermont, was already in the area in anticipation of Benjamin’s birth.”

Bethany and her mother have remained in Montauk to assist Dan, and her husband has since joined her. Their daughter, Siena, is the same age as Coen, and Bethany relayed, “Debi and I were very, very close and our children were born just nine weeks apart. She was a stay-at-home mom and she planned to be at home with Benjamin as well.”

Deborah Lee, Dylan and Coen (left photo) and Benjamin (right photo). (Courtesy Photo from the Scheffer Family)

As noted on the GoFundMe page, “We are all heart-broken by this extreme loss and the devastating impact that it will have on the family she [Deborah] leaves behind. The Scheffer boys will receive all donations, and are enormously appreciative of the outpouring of support that has been shown them.”

Bethany continued, “The outpouring of love and support of this community, and from friends, and even strangers during this painful time has been amazing, and my brother, and our entire family are deeply touched and grateful.”

Huber’s intentions organizing the GoFundMe are both honorable and moving, as Dan is self-employed, and this father of two will certainly face many challenges raising his young sons. Bethany did report, “Benjamin has been in Stony Brook Hospital since his birth, and we are expecting him to be released any day now.”

The devastating loss to this family may never diminish but with emotional and financial support, perhaps it will allow Scheffer some peace of mind while dealing with the emotional turmoil he and his children will face.

To make a donation or for more information, go to www.gofundme.com.