'Precious' Long Island Dad Killed By Accused Drunken Driver; GoFundMe Made

FARMINGDALE, NY — The children of a Farmingdale man who police said was killed by a drunken driver on Jan. 18 have created a GoFundMe.

Joe DeVito, 61, was having lunch with a "dear friend" of his at On Parade Diner in Woodbury. When DeVito left the diner, he was hit by Willem Specht, 62, of Woodbury, as Specht was backing up his 2004 Infiniti sedan in the parking lot of the diner, at 7980 Jericho Turnpike, Nassau police said.

Specht was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, second-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree assault, second-degree vehicular manslaughter and second-degree manslaughter.

"We, along with so many others, are crushed by this senseless tragedy," his children, Vanessa Stimmel and Anthony DeVito, wrote on the fundraiser. "He is more than just a good man, he is a bright light in the darkness for so many people. He loved God and others with his whole heart and set out to make the love of God known to the world around him. He was and always will be a faithful husband, beloved dad, proud Papa, treasured son, dear brother, trusted friend, and so much more."

If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe for DeVito, you may do so here.

Roughly $10,000 was raised for the family as of Wednesday afternoon.

"We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, prayers, and support since his passing," DeVito's children wrote.

Stimmel and DeVito said the funds will help their mother, as end-of-life costs, unforeseen future expenses, and care for their father's aging mother are all considerations. The two are trying to help their mom "get back on her feet and move forward in a new direction."

"First and foremost, we treasure your prayers during this very painful time," the two wrote. "We have never been more more aware of and grateful for our wonderful community of family and friends. If you desire to support our mom further, please donate an amount of your choosing to help her navigate this very difficult time without additional stressors."