GoFundMe Started In Memory Of 2 Children Who Died In Geneva Lake Boating Tragedy

WHEATON, IL — A GoFundMe has been in memory of Abigail Oswald, 7, and Caleb Oswald, 6, two of the three children who died when a boat capsized on Geneva Lake on July 3.

Money donated to the fundraiser will be given to a local children's charity, according to the fundraiser's description.

On the fundraising page, organizer Brad Oswald wrote that the pair "were more than brother and sister—they were best friends. They filled our home with laughter, music, hugs, and endless love. They were deeply loved by their family, friends, teachers, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them."

Abigail was remembered as someone who "loved swimming, dancing, and filling every room with her energy."

"She had a huge heart for others and dreamed of becoming a teacher one day because she wanted to help children learn and grow. She was kind, loving, and wise beyond her years," the GoFundMe description said.

Caleb "had the sweetest heart and a smile that could brighten anyone's day," according to the fundraising page.

Remembered for is love of dancing, trucks and Chick-fil-A, "Caleb found happiness in the simple things, and his laughter and excitement were contagious."

As of Wednesday afternoon, the GoFundMe for Caleb and Abigail Oswald had raised more than $61,000 or its $111,000 goal.

On Wednesday, Community Unit School District 200 confirmed that two of the children who died had attended schools in the district.

Ten people were aboard the boat, a Nautique P25, on Geneva Lake when storms suddenly gathered. The man operating the boat, whom police described as "47-year-old male with extensive boating experience," attempted to find a safe harbor but was unable.

Shortly after, two large waves struck the boat, leaving water aboard. Another wave hit the boat shortly after, causing the boat to capsize.

Emergency responders found six adults and one child in the water and took them to safety.

The passengers were identified as residents of Wheaton, Batavia and Fontana, Wisconsin.

The three children who died were found inside the boat, which had sunk 32 feet beneath the surface of the water.