Local Dad Dies Suddenly, Family Raising Money For Kids' College

SEATTLE, WA -- A 33-year-old Seattle father of two suddenly died last month, now the public is being asked to help secure the future for his young children. John Carbonetti died in his sleep on Feb. 24, leaving behind his wife, Sara, and children Jack, 3, and Maggie, 11 months, according to a GoFundMe page created for the family.

Kirkland resident and brother-in-law of Carbonetti, Patrick Gowey, is asking the public to donate to a GoFundMe campaign for the children, which will go towards a college savings account.

On the fundraising page, Gowey spoke warmly of Carbonetti, describing him as fun, passionate and kind.

"As time went on, I was also privileged to watch him become a totally devoted father to his two children," Gowey wrote. "Jack and Maggie were John's highest priority in life and I know that he was so proud of the beautiful children he had with Sara and the life they envisioned together."

As the family copes with the loss of Carbonetti, Gowey is hoping to raise $50,000 for the children's future.

"The kids' short term needs are taken care of by many generous offers of meal trains, childcare, and housing," Gowey wrote. "However, in the next 15-18 years, Jack and Maggie's ability to afford college tuition and secure a stable future is less certain. The proceeds from this GoFundMe campaign will be split evenly into two 529 college savings accounts for Jack and Maggie's benefit. A 529 is a tax-advantaged investment plan that allows the account holder to withdraw funds for eligible college expenses without federal taxes."

As of Tuesday, the campaign raised $15,760.

--Photo via GoFundMe/GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner