Kevin Foster, a marketing executive and community advocate, died July 31 after diving into the ocean to help his two sons and other swimmers caught in a riptide off Long Point, Martha's Vineyard. First responders and off-duty lifeguards from another beach rescued several people; Foster was transported to Martha's Vineyard Hospital but did not survive. He was buried on Aug. 11. A GoFundMe for his sons' education has raised over $281,000, and the family has asked for privacy as they mourn.
Father Dies Trying to Rescue Sons and Other Swimmers From Riptide at Martha's Vineyard
Kevin Foster, right, with wife and sonCredit: GoFundMe
A family outing at Long Point on Martha's Vineyard turned tragic on July 31 when Kevin Foster plunged into the Atlantic to help his two teenage sons and other swimmers caught in a strong riptide. While his sons, Kenneth and Kaden, were pulled to safety, Foster did not survive.
Incident and Response
According to the West Tisbury Police Department, the emergency was reported at approximately 3:47 p.m. on Friday, July 31. West Tisbury police, West Tisbury Fire Rescue personnel and Tri-Town medical staff all responded simultaneously. There were no lifeguards assigned to the private stretch of beach, but three lifeguards from a beach about five miles away also rushed to the scene and entered the water to assist swimmers who were struggling to return to shore.
Kevin Foster with his familyCredit: GoFundMe
Crews were able to bring four people ashore. One of those individuals was later identified as Kevin Foster, who was transported to Martha's Vineyard Hospital; he later died from his injuries.
Family, Community and Remembrance
The Foster family released a statement thanking first responders and fellow beachgoers for their courage and compassion. "We offer a very special thank you to the first responders on Martha's Vineyard who courageously gave of themselves to support our family and other distressed swimmers that day," the family wrote. They also asked for privacy as they grieve.
From left: Kenneth, Kevin and Kaden FosterCredit: GoFundMe
"We have lost Kevin A. Foster: beloved father, husband, son, and friend. He passed away on July 31st, swimming in the waters off of Martha's Vineyard, a place he loved, among people he loved, and who loved him," wrote his wife, Nadia, on a remembrance page.
Foster, an Arkansas native who worked as a marketing executive, was also remembered for his civic work in Cambridge, including serving on the Cambridge Community Preservation Act committee and advocating for affordable housing and community preservation. Cambridge state Rep. Marjorie Decker — a longtime friend of Nadia's — described Foster as a devoted husband, father and community member who helped make others feel welcome.
Kevin Foster was buried on Tuesday, Aug. 11. The Keefe Funeral Homes tribute described him as a man of service, faith, kindness and excellence who "completed his earthly assignment." His family has asked for privacy while they mourn.
Community Support
A GoFundMe established to support the education of Foster's sons has raised more than $281,000, reflecting broad community support. Nadia Foster expressed gratitude to friends, neighbors and strangers who have offered meals, prayers and practical help during the family's grief.
The Foster family's message emphasized appreciation for those who helped that day and for the outpouring of support since: "Your presence has reminded us that even in our deepest grief, we are surrounded by an extraordinary community of love."
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