The death of a Michigan man who froze to death in his own home has the Onondaga County Office of Aging and Youth encouraging people to check on their neighbors during the cold winter months.

Marvin Schur, 93, was a World War II vet who lived alone. His power was shut off after he failed to pay his bills. Four days later, he was found dead in his bedroom.

The Joanne Decker of the Office of Aging and Youth says it’s a situation that can occur anywhere. One problem they often see is that some elderly people do not want help. In that case, the best thing concerned family members or neighbors can do is contact their office and find out what resources there are available for the person who is at risk. The county has several programs available to help the elderly. But Decker says the biggest resource is the community itself.