More than $170,000 has been raised online for the family of a Huntington Woods city worker who was killed Friday by a falling tree limb.
Doug Chmiel, supervisor for the Huntington Woods Department of Public Works, was killed while on the job, city officials said in a statement. They said he was clearing a road for emergency vehicle access as part of the city’s cleanup operations after a recent severe windstorm when a tree limb fell on him.
Chmiel was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries, according to authorities.
“This is a profound loss for the entire Huntington Woods staff and community,” city officials said. “Our employees are the foundation of our organization, and losing a colleague who was dedicated to their work and community is truly heartbreaking.”
They said Chmiel leaves behind a wife and three children.
“Our hearts are with the family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time,” the city said. “The City of Huntington Woods will ensure Doug’s family receives our full support, and we ask that their privacy be respected.”
Officials also said the city is providing counseling and support services to its staff.
They also said a GoFundMe page was established to support his family.
The online fundraiser was organized by Chmiel’s brother-in-law, the page said.
“Doug was a veteran who served in the Army National Guard and was a devoted husband and father who worked hard every day to care for his family,” it said. “Doug was the kind of man who showed up for everyone around him.”
It said his death has left his wife, Dawn, and their children “facing unimaginable grief, along with the sudden loss of Doug’s support.”
The page had raised $170,838 of a $200,000 goal, as of 7:30 a.m. Monday.
cramirez@detroitnews.com
X: @CharlesERamirez
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Huntington Woods worker dies after hit by tree limb during storm cleanup
Reporting by Charles E. Ramirez, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
