Photo courtesy of: www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-to-return-our-beloved-kamals-body-to-his-family
A fundraising campaign has been launched to help repatriate the body of a 23-year-old Markdale man who died after drowning at Beavermead Park in Peterborough.
The online fundraiser was created by a close family friend on behalf of the man’s family to cover the costs of returning his body to his hometown in Haryana, India, as well as funeral and related expenses.
According to the fundraiser, the young man moved to Canada in December 2023 as an international student at Loyalist College, hoping to build a better future. After completing his studies, he recently received his work permit and had begun a new career as a welder after previously working as an Amazon delivery driver.
Friends describe him as hardworking, humble and kind, saying he was excited about the opportunities ahead and was looking forward to celebrating his 24th birthday next month.
The fundraiser says the fatal incident occurred during a camping trip with friends at Beavermead Park on Friday, where he drowned while swimming.
Emergency crews were called to the park on the evening of July 3 after reports that a man had entered the water and failed to resurface. He was pulled from the water by first responders and transported to Peterborough Regional Health Centre, where he was pronounced dead.
Organizers say the family is facing the emotional and financial burden of bringing their loved one home to India so relatives can say a final goodbye according to their traditions.
The fundraiser notes that any remaining funds will be used solely for repatriation, funeral expenses and other necessary arrangements associated with transporting his body internationally.
