Support Carpinelli

Danny Carpinelli, a longtime resident of Ulster County and member of the New Paltz Police Department, passed away on July 16, 2022, leaving behind his wife, Gina, and two daughters, Sydney (22) and Olivia (5). Danny’s dedication to serving our community was one of the hallmarks of his life. We now come together to support Gina as she mourns the loss of her husband, her life partner, and is in need of immediate help.

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Michaela. Growing up in New Paltz instilled in me a strong sense of community. I continue to serve and contribute to my community as an elementary school teacher, alongside my family who owns a small business here as well, going into its 40th year. I've learned that it's critical that we prioritize family and community by supporting each other during difficult times, as we will all experience hardships during our lifetimes.

I am reaching out to you on behalf of Gina, who I've known since we were kids and has been my best friend for over two decades and who has supported many during some of the most difficult moments of their life. I hope we can come together now to support Gina in her time of need.

As many of you know, Danny was a police officer in New Paltz for nearly 20 years and spent time as President of the local PBA. He also served his country for eight years in the Army. Unfortunately, Danny was only a few months shy of retirement at the time of his passing. Consequently, Gina and Olivia are not eligible to receive his pension benefits. Additionally, despite being together for over a decade and sharing a daughter, they only recently made their union official in marriage. Although he began the process prior to his death, Danny did not have the chance to formally name Gina and Olivia as beneficiaries of any life insurance policies and/or other benefits.

In mid-June, Danny began experiencing flu-like symptoms that ultimately led to his transfer from Vassar to Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. The medical team diagnosed him with viral encephalitis. Danny was intubated and sedated in the ICU throughout most of his stay. As the doctors proceeded to treat his condition, there were a cascade of events. Unfortunately, the doctors were unable to determine the root cause of his illness, and Danny passed on July 16th, Gina’s birthday. Gina stayed by Danny’s side in the hospital the entire time, making sure he had the best possible care and attention.

Since then, the hospital refuses to provide Gina with Danny’s medical records or autopsy results. It is frustrating to say the least that she sits in limbo waiting for closure. Sadly, Olivia never got to see her father while he was in the hospital.

A Father's Love

Gina incurred tremendous expenses throughout Danny’s illness and remains on standby through the timely processes of procedures, professionals, and/or others. As a newly widowed, single parent navigating the most heartbreaking situation, Gina is doing the best she can to maintain a sense of normalcy for Olivia as she begins her first year of school.

Danny had a great laugh and an even greater sense of humor! He and Gina shared this quality, as well as dedication to serving our community. Danny supported Gina with her small business venture in New Paltz, The Cake Artist Cafe, which unfortunately closed during the pandemic. Gina and Danny proved stellar at making transitions run smoothly for their daughter. Gina consistently puts forth her best each day to carry on Danny’s legacy through laughter and a sense of humor with Olivia.

Nobody ever thinks that a love story, especially one as powerful as Gina and Danny’s, would end so tragically and suddenly. Danny was taken too young and leaves behind a beautiful family that needs our support. They have an amazing emotional support system, surrounded by family, friends, and community. They are in critical need of financial support to assist them in getting back on their feet over the next few months as Gina navigates this exceedingly complicated state of affairs. Gina is the epitome of kindness, she and Danny have always gone above and beyond to help people. Let’s help support his beautiful young family that he sadly leaves behind. Please join in sending your love to the Carpinelli family and keep sharing with our community. Thank you for any consideration that you may be capable of contributing!