GoFundMe set up for family of Preston man killed in avalanche
Published at | Updated at
MONTPELIER — A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family of a Preston man killed in an Idaho avalanche Saturday.
Allen Foss, 48, was buried in a large avalanche slide on the east side of Sherman Peak. A report from the Utah Avalanche Center indicates the Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the avalanche and several people rushed to the site around 11 a.m.
Officials who visited the avalanche site say a steep 37-degree slope gave way with snow traveling 1,000 feet down the gully. It has not been reported how deep Foss was buried, but officials described it as “a large amount of snow.”
“Despite heroic efforts by search and rescue crews and other riders in the area, Foss did not survive,” the avalanche center said in a news release.
The GoFundMe has raised over $13,000 since it launched Sunday. Foss is described as having a big heart and was always talking about his daughters.
“Allen’s greatest love are his two daughters, Halle and McKynzie,” Foss’ obituary reads. “His hobbies included traveling with his daughters, being outdoors, snowmobiling, riding his Harley, hunting, basketball, and staying physically fit.”
February has proven a fatal month for winter enthusiasts across the country. Official data reports 25 avalanche-related fatalities this month alone.
Officials predicted significant avalanche danger throughout the region over the past week as heavy drifting snow-covered a weak snowpack. Experts say dangerous conditions still exist and avalanches are likely to keep happening in the backcountry.
“If you plan to recreate in the backcountry, the Utah Avalanche Center recommends using extreme caution, do not go alone, and carry emergency/rescue equipment including avalanche beacons,” according to the news release “Avoid and stay out from under steep slopes. By preparing ahead of time and using the resources provided, recreationists become aware of the dangers associated with winter recreation. Recreating responsibly, especially during the winter months, helps save lives.”
This weather-related story is brought to you by Pony Express Car Wash, Idaho's premier express car wash destination, renowned for its commitment to exceptional service and quality. Voted the No. 1 car wash company in Idaho for three consecutive years, we pride ourselves on delivering an unparalleled experience for every vehicle and customer. Our state-of-the-art facility utilizes name-brand soaps and cutting-edge equipment to ensure your car receives the ultimate clean. Established in eastern Idaho in 2019, Pony Express is proud to be a locally owned and operated company that caters to the unique car washing needs of our Idaho Friends and neighbors. We invite you to experience the difference at Pony Express, where your satisfaction is our ultimate goal.
Our attorneys tell us we need to put this disclaimer in stories involving fundraisers: EastIdahoNews.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries.