Gabe Rygaard, a star of Ax Men, tragically died in a car accident in 2016, leaving behind his wife, children, and a grieving community.

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Gabe Rygaard, a beloved star of the reality TV series “Ax Men,” was tragically killed in a car accident on September 16, 2016.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the logging community and left fans of the show grappling with the loss of a man who was not only a prominent figure on television but also a devoted husband and father.

Gabe, who had become a household name since the show’s premiere in 2008, was the owner of Rygaard Logging, a family business established by his father in the 1990s.

Known for its portrayal of the grueling realities of logging, “Ax Men” showcased the dangerous work that Gabe and his crew undertook. However, behind the scenes, Gabe’s life was marked by both triumphs and tragedies.

On that fateful day, Gabe was driving his Ford Bronco on Highway 101 near his home in Port Angeles, Washington, when he was involved in a multi-car accident.

Reports indicate that his vehicle rear-ended another car, causing a chain reaction that ultimately led to seven people being injured. Gabe sustained severe injuries and was rushed to Olympic Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries just hours later.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that Gabe was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, and the wreckage was so extensive that it closed the highway for several hours.

In the wake of Gabe’s untimely death, his widow, Katie, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community.

In a poignant Facebook post, she described Gabe as her rock and best friend, overwhelmed by the love and condolences they received during such a devastating time. The couple had three children—Trilby, Aiden, and Tucker—who were left to navigate life without their father.

Katie later remarried in 2021 but continues to honor Gabe’s memory, sharing heartfelt messages on social media about the impact he had on their lives.

Gabe’s passing not only left a void in his family but also in the logging industry, where he was seen as a leader. His father, Craig Rygaard, had stepped down from the family business due to a severe knee injury, leaving Gabe to carry the torch.

Following Gabe’s death, the reins of Rygaard Logging were handed over to his brother, Jason, who struggled to maintain the business amid changing environmental regulations and economic challenges.

The show “Ax Men” was canceled shortly before Gabe’s death, preventing fans from witnessing Jason’s journey as the new leader of the family legacy.

Despite the cancellation of the show, Jason’s efforts to keep Rygaard Logging afloat were documented in a short-lived revival titled “Ax Men Reborn,” which aired in 2019.

The revival highlighted the difficulties faced by the logging industry, including the impact of legislation on timber harvesting.

However, the current status of Rygaard Logging remains uncertain, as the company’s official website has been inactive since late 2016, shortly after Gabe’s death.

Gabe was not just a businessman; he was also deeply invested in his community. In early 2016, he launched a campaign for the commissioner seat of Clallam County, running as a Republican.

His platform focused on addressing local government issues and supporting the timber industry. Despite his defeat in the August elections, Gabe’s campaign garnered significant support, demonstrating his commitment to the community he loved.

The loss of Gabe Rygaard is not an isolated incident in the world of “Ax Men.” The show has seen several cast members pass away over the years, each leaving a lasting impact on their families and the audience.

Notable among them is Jimmy Smith, who died from cancer in 2012, and William Bart Culantuono, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter accident in 2013.

The show’s legacy is marked by these losses, reminding viewers of the inherent dangers of the logging profession and the fragility of life.

As fans continue to remember Gabe, his cousin Todd Dewey, known for his appearances on “Ice Road Truckers,” shared his condolences, describing Gabe as not only a cousin but also a best friend and an exemplary father.

The emotional tributes from family, friends, and fans alike underscore the profound impact Gabe had on those around him.

In conclusion, the tragic death of Gabe Rygaard serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those in the logging industry and the personal sacrifices made by individuals who work in such perilous conditions.

As the Rygaard family navigates life without their beloved husband and father, the memories of Gabe’s larger-than-life personality and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many.

The legacy of “Ax Men” and its cast members continues to resonate, leaving viewers with a mix of nostalgia and sorrow as they reflect on the lives of those who brought the harsh realities of logging into their living rooms.