<div>    UPDATE: He is currently at home with his family, recovering from his injuries and focused on planning the next steps to rebuild what was lost. We would like to once again express our heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming generosity and kindness shown by everyone.
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<div>      If you are local to Chautauqua county and would like to contribute outside of the GoFundMe platform, a charitable fund will be established at the Community Bank located at 8720 E Main Street, Clymer, NY beginning Monday, December 9th under Bittinger Fund.                
      


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<div>     Thank you once again for your continued support during this time. It has made a huge difference.  <span> </span>


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<div><span>      Hi everyone,

I am creating this fundraiser on behalf of my grandfather, Dennis. Early this morning, tragedy struck when his childhood home was engulfed in flames, likely caused by an electrical fire. </span>


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<div>      Around 5 a.m., Dennis woke to a house filled with thick smoke and flames. His first instinct was to search for his loyal dog and best friend, Goose, using the light from his phone and a flashlight. However, the flames quickly grew too overwhelming. My grandpa suffered second degree burns to his back and head trying to save Goose, eventually realizing he had to get out if he was to survive. He dialed 911 as he stood in the snow outside of his flame-engulfed childhood home. The home where his 3 kids were also raised. 




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<div>       Firefighters from seven departments worked to extinguish the blaze. Unfortunately, the fire claimed everything: a lifetime of memories, family photos, belongings, and, heartbreakingly, Goose.




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<div>      Dennis is more than just a survivor. He’s a Vietnam veteran, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend. He is the rock of our family—a selfless and loving man who has always put others first. Asking for help is not in his nature, which is why we’re taking this step for him. 




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<div>       The funds raised will help Dennis begin to rebuild his life—securing new housing, replacing essentials, and easing the financial strain of this unimaginable loss. He is especially devastated about the loss of his best friend, so we hope this support will provide him with some comfort and peace as he moves forward. 




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<div>       From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for any contribution you can make—whether it’s donating, sharing this page, or keeping Dennis in your thoughts. Your kindness means the world to our family. 


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lydia samuelson

Charlene Cruse-Rivera

Abby DeCicco

Jenny Doss

Anonymous

Annette Rhebergen

Susan Parker

Michelle Ulrich

John Chreighton

annette dangelo

Ashley Regdos

Carter Stetson

Janet Campana

Tiara White

Help Dennis Rebuild After Devastating Fire

Help Dennis Rebuild After Devastating Fire

Still $1,750 to go. Help us build momentum.