Gavin Wendricks Obituary: A Young Firefighter Who Died in a Motorcycle Crash
Gavin Wendricks was a 20-year-old firefighter from Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, who loved adventure and motorcycles. He was a reputable truck driver for ALCIVIA and a devoted recruit at the local fire department. He joined the department in April 2022, following his father Paul, who had been a firefighter since 1998.
On Saturday, 28 October 2023, Gavin’s life was cut short in a tragic motorcycle accident on Interstate 39/90 near the exit ramp from the southbound interstate to Highway 12. He collided with another motorcyclist, a 21-year-old from Sun Prairie, who was badly injured and taken to the hospital. Gavin was pronounced dead at the scene, despite receiving CPR and medical attention.
The accident occurred on National First Responders Day, a day to honor and thank those who risk their lives to protect and serve others. Gavin was one of them, a young man who dedicated himself to his community and his passion.
The Community Mourns Gavin Wendricks’s Death
Gavin’s death sent shockwaves throughout the city of Cottage Grove, a small and close-knit community where he was born and raised. His family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors expressed their grief and condolences on social media platforms and in person.
The Cottage Grove Fire Department announced Gavin’s passing on October 29th on their Facebook page. They wrote:
It is with the heaviest of heart that we share news of the passing of Cottage Grove Firefighter Gavin Wendricks who succumbed to injuries received in a motorcycle accident on the afternoon of Saturday, October 28th. Gavin became a member of the department in April of 2022, joining his father Paul who has been with CGFD since 1998. Gavin, with his big heart and bigger smile will be greatly missed.
The department also shared a photo of Gavin’s helmet and jacket hanging on his locker, along with a black ribbon. They asked the public to keep Gavin’s family in their thoughts and prayers.
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The Mad-City Ski Team, a group of water skiers that Gavin and his family belonged to, also paid tribute to him on their Facebook page. They wrote:
We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our own. Gavin Wendricks was an amazing young man who loved life and skiing. He was always smiling and always willing to help out. He was a great friend, teammate, and skier. He will be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his parents Paul and Shannon, his sister Brooklyn, and the rest of his family and friends.
The Wisconsin Fire & EMS Memorial also honored Gavin’s memory on their Facebook page. They wrote:
COTTAGE GROVE – It is with the heaviest of heart that we share news of the passing of Cottage Grove Firefighter Gavin Wendricks who succumbed to injuries received in a motorcycle accident on the afternoon of Saturday, October 28th. Gavin became a member of the department in April of 2022, joining his father Paul who has been with CGFD since 1998. Gavin, with his big heart and bigger smile will be greatly missed.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the Wendricks family as well as Chief Bruce Boxrucker and all members of Cottage Grove Fire Department as they mourn this tragic loss.
Rest easy brother…we’ll take it from here.
Many other people who knew or met Gavin shared their personal stories and memories of him online. They described him as a kind, generous, fun-loving, adventurous, hard-working, and respectful person who had a bright future ahead of him.
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Cause of Accident
The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol. According to the preliminary report, both motorcyclists were wearing helmets at the time of the crash. The weather conditions were clear and dry. The traffic was moderate.
The report also stated that both motorcyclists were traveling southbound on I-39/90 when they approached the exit ramp to Highway 12. For unknown reasons, they collided with each other and lost control of their vehicles. They both slid across the pavement and came to rest on the shoulder.
The names of the motorcyclists have not been released yet by the authorities. The condition of the injured motorcyclist is unknown at this time.
The investigation is ongoing and more details are expected to be released soon.
How to Support Gavin Wendricks’s Family?
Gavin’s family is going through a difficult time as they cope with his sudden and tragic death. They have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the funeral expenses and other costs. As of October 30th, they have raised over $16,000 from more than 200 donors.
The page reads:
On Saturday October 28th we lost our son/brother Gavin Wendricks in a motorcycle accident. Gavin was only 20 years old and had so much life to live. He was a firefighter for Cottage Grove Fire Department and loved his job. He was also a truck driver for ALCIVIA and loved driving. He loved anything with a motor and was always up for an adventure. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He was always smiling and making people laugh. He was loved by so many and will be missed by all. We are asking for any donations to help with funeral expenses and anything else that may come up. Thank you for your support and prayers.
If you would like to support Gavin’s family, you can donate to their GoFundMe page or send them a message of condolence.
Gavin Wendricks was a young firefighter who lost his life in a motorcycle accident on 28 October 2023. He was a beloved son, brother, friend, colleague, and community member who touched many lives with his kindness and joy. He will be remembered for his courage, dedication, and passion. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
