Fundraisers Underway For Bergen Pizzeria Worker's Funeral

RAMSEY, NJ – Efforts are underway to raise money for the funeral of an 18-year-old Bergen County pizzeria worker whose body was found in a New York lake over the weekend.

On Sunday, the body of Wilson Atz was discovered just over the border in Suffern, at the foot of Lake Antrim near Wayne Avenue, more than a month after he went missing, according to Suffern police.

See More: Body Of Bergen Pizzeria Owner Found In Rockland Lake

The teen worked at Kinchley's Tavern in Ramsey, where owners have been issuing pleas for the public's help in finding Atz. On Wednesday, the restaurant launched a fundraiser campaign to help his family with funeral costs.

Workers said, "Wilson was the only family member in the United States with his father. Now his father has the sad task of sending Wilson" back to Guatemala.

Click Here For The Fundraiser

According to the GoFundMe page, "It is expected that his wakes and a funeral, which will be in Suffern, NY, will occur during the beginning of the first week of February. Secondary funeral costs to send Wilson home will be almost $10,000."

The teen is survived by his father, his mother and five siblings.

"Wilson was a part of the Kinchley’s Tavern Team for almost two years and also worked at the Urban Auto Spa in Ramsey for less than a year. He was a hard worker and a good son. He was loved by his coworkers and will be greatly missed by all of them. Every dollar collected will go directly to Wilson’s father. Any amount you can afford to give will be greatly appreciated," fundraiser organizers said.

A member of the Atz family's church community has also created an effort to help with costs. Click here to access the page.

Organizer Silvia Namnum said, "We have created this page with the purpose of raising funds to send Wilson to Guatemala, his country of origin, where his mother, his sisters, and other relatives are waiting to receive him.Please help this humble family during this difficult time. Together we can make it happen!"

On Sunday, over 80 volunteer search and rescue members were out with Suffern police and New York State Police searching the area for Atz, Suffern police said in a statement on social media.

An investigation into his death is being led by state police

He was last seen walking east on Route 202 in Suffern during the early morning hours of Dec. 20, 2019,according to state police. Anyone with information is asked to contact New York State Police at 845-344-5300.