Chuck Zaffuto Memorial Fund

Hello, My Name is David Barnard and I helped create this GoFundMe at the request of Chucks son. Here are a few words from Daniel:

"My name is Daniel Zaffuto and I've created this GoFundMe for my father, Chuck Zaffuto. My dad is the epitome of strength and dedication, a man who's lived his life with pride and unwavering commitment. He's been not only an exceptional father and husband but also a beloved "Papa" to his grandsons. His passion for cooking has made him a renowned chef in Rochester, known for his generosity and hospitality. His home was a place where no one left hungry, and his friendship is a treasured gift.

Since 2020, my father has faced a relentless battle with health issues. He's endured life-threatening illnesses, multiple aortic aneurysms requiring emergency surgeries, left-sided heart failure, and partial kidney failure. In 2021, he started dialysis. Recently, he was urgently admitted to Strong Hospital for further complications, including aortic dissections that nearly claimed his life.

Despite these challenges, my father's spirit remains unbroken. However, the financial strain of medical bills, medication costs, and emergency hospital visits is overwhelming. It's difficult for us to seek help – my father, a man of immense self-respect, would never ask. But today, I am reaching out on his behalf.

Your contribution to this GoFundMe will significantly alleviate the financial burdens and emotional stress facing my father and his wife. It will ensure that he continues to receive the vital medical care he needs.

We are deeply grateful for your support and kindness. Please consider sharing this link on your social media to extend this message of hope and solidarity. Thank you for taking the time to read our story."

Update 1/2/2024:

Chuck is still and has been in the ICU for going on 3 weeks. After the needed surgeries, Chuck was taken off a ventilator and put on Oxygen, however he development Pneumonia and was put back onto the ventilator on 12/30.

Once the pneumonia clears, he can be taken off the ventilator. After he is medically stable, he will still have a long way to go to recovery, requiring physical therapy to get him walking again.

We also wanted to express a huge thank you to everyone who has donated to Chuck's GoFundMe. It's a huge help and blessing. We hope you all had a wonderful holiday and a happy new year.

Update 1/20/2024:

Chuck Zafutto was put on hospice and passed away in the early morning on Saturday January 20th, 2024. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. We appreciate the support everyone has provided and additional contributions will continue to go towards medical and funeral expenses.