Multiple fundraisers established for family of William Crnkovich
The Star Valley community has once again pulled together, this time to help the family of a local father who lost his life in a tragic work accident last week. Multiple fundraisers have been established for the family of William Crnkovich, a 43-year-old Afton man who unexpectedly died while on a job site.
Following the news of his passing, friends, family, acquaintances and strangers jumped into action to help where they could. A GoFundMe account was created to raise money for the family to help with expenses. A $10,000 fundraising goal was set. As of 7:00 p.m. Monday, the fundraiser had raised a total of $8,660. Anyone wishing to donate can visit the GoFundMe by clicking here.
A Facebook auction fundraiser has also been established to raise additional funds. The group, titled “William Crnkovich Auction” features donated items and services from local businesses and community members. Items range from gift baskets, a rifle, various business services, home baked goods and more. Items can be donated and then bid on in the comments. Highest bidder wins
In addition, a donation account was also created for William’s daughter at the Bank of Star Valley. Donations can be made directly to the account at any BOSV branch. Funds can also be donated via Venmo to @Judy-Williams-155.
The accident happened in Alpine on Tuesday, June 18 as Crnkovich was working at a private residence for a company who had been hired to clear brush and trees from the property. The Alpine Fire Department said they were dispatched to the scene at 1:34 p.m. after Crnkovich became caught in a woodchipper. Firefighters disassembled the chipper and removed Crnkovich. Emergency responders from Star Valley Health performed life saving procedures, however the traumatic injuries were too severe and he succumbed to his injuries.
Crnkovich was a longtime resident of Star Valley. He was also a veteran, having served overseas in the Middle East as part of Afton’s 1041st Engineer Company of the Wyoming Army National Guard.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 29 at 11:00 a.m. in the Schwab Funeral Chapel in Thayne.
