Family of man who died on hunting trip raises cash for search and rescuers

Owners of Pfenning's Organic Farm, who lost their son Andreas Pfenning after he went missing on a hunting trip, are organizing a fundraiser with the Advanced Tactical Training Search and Rescue group.

Pfenning's Organic Farm, along with the volunteer group ATTSAR, raise funds for canine training

Peggy Lam · CBC News ·
Over 100 volunteers helped look for Andreas Pfenning back in March. (Peggy Lam/CBC)

Owners of Pfenning's Organic Farm, who lost their son Andreas Pfenning after he went missing on a hunting trip, are organizing a fundraiser with the Advanced Tactical Training Search and Rescue group, as a way to thank the volunteers for helping look for their son. 

Andreas' body was found in Nith River in March by police. His disappearance drew over 100 volunteers to help search for him. Some of those volunteers were from the non-profit rescue group. 

"Just given the speed at which their son was found, they just wanted to show gratitude and appreciation" said William Bolton, the senior trainer at ATTSAR.

The fundraiser is organized on the Pfenning's farm in New Hamburg, Ont., with food, entertainment and a silent auction. Bolton said he's expecting at least 500 people to attend. 

ATTSAR is a volunteer-run organization that provides emergency services in Waterloo Region, Halton Region, Wellington County and beyond. 

Bolton said the money raised will go toward the group's direct expenses such as gas, accommodation and equipment used to respond to calls.

The fundraiser is set for Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m.