Dad Who Died Saving 7-Year-Old Son On Lake Perris Was 'Devoted Husband, Proud Father'

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The life of a Corona dad was being remembered this week following his death Saturday, which followed an incident at Lake Perris State Recreation Area.

Hadi Ahmadi, 55, and his 7-year-old son were kayaking on the lake late afternoon when their vessel capsized. California State Parks peace officers arrived to help, but the father was unconscious and partially submerged.

The boy was in distress but conscious, and holding his dad, according to California State Parks.

"Investigators noted that the father heroically kept his son afloat throughout the ordeal, supporting him until rescue personnel arrived," California State Parks officials said in a news release.

Ahmadi was transported to Riverside University Health System Medical Center in Moreno Valley, but was pronounced dead shortly after 5:30 p.m. that evening.

"He loved him so much," Ahmadi's 48-year-old wife, Mojgan Manafi, told The Press-Enterprise of her husband's adoration for their child. Ahmadi even named his mechanical engineering business — Artin Hadi LLC — after the boy.

Both father and son were good swimmers, and Ahmadi exercised regularly, according to Manafi. She told the news outlet that doctors believe her husband had a heart attack.

According to California State Parks, neither father nor son was wearing a life jacket, but there was one on the kayak.

A GoFundMe page for the Ahmadi family was launched and had raised more than $3,100 as of early Tuesday afternoon:

Dear Team/Colleagues/Friends,

It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of our dear coworker and friend, Hadi Ahmadi. He was not only a valued member of our team but also someone who brought kindness, warmth, and positivity to everyone around him.

To support Hadi’s family during this difficult time, we have created a GoFundMe page. The funds will help with funeral expenses, memorial arrangements, or other specific needs. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference.

Even if you are unable to donate, sharing the link with others who knew Hadi would be greatly appreciated. Let’s come together to honor his memory and show support to the family.

With heartfelt thanks,
Republic Services Anaheim Recycling Center
3885 Management Team

James Castro, general manager for Republic Services Anaheim Post Collection, called Ahmadi a talented technician and "a cherished member of the Anaheim Recycling Center team since 2015.

"He was a devoted husband, a proud father and a respected member of the community," Castro continued. "Each day, he showed up with a warm smile and a genuine desire to help. For those of us who had the privilege to work alongside him, he was more than just a hardworking employee. He was a friend, a passionate mentor and a regular source of kindness for everyone around him.

"Our thoughts are with his family as they navigate this profound loss."