WILLARD, Box Elder County — The family of a man who drowned in Willard Bay on Saturday said he died as he had lived – selflessly – trying to save his son. His family described him as a devoted single father who leaves behind five children.

Andre Debose died Saturday in the water northwest of the state park near Eagle Beach while trying to save his 17-year-old son, who jumped into the water to help his 19-year-old girlfriend, who had begun struggling in rough seas as a storm approached.

His son’s girlfriend made it back to the boat, but Andre had jumped into the boat behind his son, Keidre, who is called Kash. Kash and Andre were still in the water when Andre gave Kash his life jacket as the boat drifted further away from him, according to the family. Andre went under and did not resurface.

“My father gave his life for me, so I feel like I have to do something with my life,” said Kash Debose. “Become a plumber, go to trade school, carry on my father’s business and carry on his legacy.”

Andre’s sister Anyea said Andre moved to Utah from Florida two years ago and also worked on the construction of the new airport. He was the father of five children, ages 1, 3, 13, 16 and 17. He recently bought a house and also moved to Utah with his mother, Donella.

Anyea Debose described Saturday’s events as a tragic accident.

“A tragic, tragic accident. He was an experienced swimmer, like everyone else. But it was just something we can’t change. And that’s why we definitely want to make sure his legacy lives on in his children.”

Anyea has also started a GoFundMe campaign to help and says the children now need help following in their father’s footsteps.

“Any donation, even information on how we can continue in Utah, because we want to try to keep things together as much as possible. But whether it’s money or resources, we’re happy to talk about it,” Anyea Debose said.

“He just had a determination to make it – the American dream – to make it on his own and to share his dreams and desires with his children. And that motivation to make sure they do the same.”