More Than $200K Raised For Family Of GA Native Who Drowned Trying To Save Bird

A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $205,000 for the family of a 32-year-old Florida man who reportedly drowned while attempting to rescue a bird tangled in his fishing line.

William "Stone" Romberg, a native of Marietta, Georgia, who lived in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, was remembered by friends and coworkers as a devoted family man whose kindness ultimately led to tragedy.

As of Thursday afternoon, Oct. 29, a GoFundMe campaign launched for his family had raised $205,123 toward its $210,000 goal, with 770 donations listed on the fundraiser.

Romberg's employer, La Dolce Vita, announced his death in an emotional Facebook post Tuesday, explaining that he lost his life while fishing on an inlet at Panama City Beach, Florida, and attempting to help a bird caught in his fishing line.

"Stone was a valued part of our LDV family, remembered for his kind heart, hard work, and willingness to always lend a hand," the post said.

The company did not provide additional details about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Growing up in Georgia, Romberg was the son of Gerry Romberg, currently an assistant football coach at Pius X Catholic High School in Atlanta.

The private school also expressed its condolences on social media following new of the young father's death.

"Please join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Stone Romberg as well as peace and comfort for the Romberg family."

Romberg leaves behind his wife, Taylor, and their two small daughters, Hadley, 3, and Lainey, 1.

The fundraiser, organized by Christopher Carlin on behalf of Taylor Romberg, was established to help the family navigate the financial challenges following his unexpected death.

"Stone brought a positive attitude each day and made a lasting impression on the people around him," Carlin wrote on the fundraiser's webpage.

The fundraising campaign also emphasized that donations would help cover the family's immediate financial needs and provide support for his wife and the couple's daughters in the coming weeks.

The outpouring of support has been substantial, with hundreds of donors contributing to the campaign. This included a $15,000 contribution from Amy Carlin among its largest donations.

La Dolce Vita also encouraged community members to rally around Romberg's family as they grieve.

"His kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed," the company said.

Funeral arrangements have not been announced at this time.