The Tragic Death of Gabe Rygaard: A Legacy of Loss in the Logging World

In the world of reality television, few shows have offered a raw and unfiltered look at the dangers of hard labor like Ax Men.

Since its premiere in 2008, the series has showcased the perilous and often brutal reality of logging—a profession fraught with risks and challenges.

Among its most memorable cast members was Gabe Rygaard, whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident on September 16, 2016.

Gabe Rygaard, a truck driver turned logging company owner, captured the hearts of viewers with his dedication to his family business, Rygaard Logging, which was founded by his father in the 1990s.

His charm and leadership skills made him a standout on Ax Men, especially after the show’s second season in 2012 when audiences began to see more of his journey and the challenges he faced in the logging industry.

However, Gabe’s promising future was abruptly halted when he was involved in a serious car accident.

While driving his Ford Bronco on Highway 101 near Port Angeles, Washington, Gabe rear-ended another vehicle, leading to a multi-car collision that resulted in seven injuries.

Despite being rushed to Olympic Medical Center, Gabe succumbed to his injuries just hours later.

Tragically, he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, contributing to the severity of his injuries.

The news of Gabe’s death sent shockwaves through his community and the Ax Men fanbase.

His widow, Katie, expressed her heartbreak and gratitude for the support they received during such a difficult time.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, she described Gabe as her rock and best friend, emphasizing the profound loss felt by their family.

Gabe left behind three young children: Trilby, Aiden, and Tucker, who now faced a future without their father.

During his funeral, family members shared touching tributes, with Gabe’s father, Craig, reflecting on their relationship and the love they shared despite any disagreements.

The community rallied around the Rygaard family, offering support and condolences in the wake of this tragic loss.

In the years following Gabe’s death, the future of Rygaard Logging became uncertain.

Gabe’s father had previously stepped down from the company due to a knee injury, leaving the business in the hands of Gabe and his brother Jason.

After Gabe’s passing, Jason took on the leadership role, but the challenges facing the logging industry were immense.

Environmental regulations and changing economic landscapes posed significant hurdles for family-run businesses like theirs.

The show Ax Men was canceled shortly before Gabe’s death, which meant that viewers never got to see how Jason navigated the tumultuous waters of running the family business without his brother.

However, in 2019, a revival called Ax Men Reborn featured Jason’s efforts to keep Rygaard Logging afloat amidst these challenges.

Unfortunately, the status of the company remains unclear, as their official website and social media have not been updated since late 2016.

Before his death, Gabe was not only focused on his logging business but also deeply invested in his community.

In early 2016, he ran for a commissioner seat in Clallam County, advocating for the timber industry and voicing concerns about property assessments that he believed were unfairly impacting local residents.

Although he did not win the election, Gabe’s campaign garnered significant support, reflecting his commitment to his community’s welfare.

Gabe Rygaard’s legacy is one of dedication, hard work, and a commitment to family and community.

His passing was not only a loss for his family but also for the logging community and fans who admired his grit and determination.

His cousin, Todd Dewey, who appeared on Ice Road Truckers, mourned the loss of his best friend and described Gabe as a devoted husband and father.

Gabe’s death was not an isolated tragedy in the Ax Men franchise.

Over the years, several cast members have faced untimely deaths, including Jimmy Smith, William Bart, Stacy Robeson, and Dwayne Deathlift.

Each of these individuals left a mark on the show and the logging industry, and their memories continue to resonate with fans.

The legacy of Gabe Rygaard is a poignant reminder of the risks associated with the logging profession and the impact of sudden loss on families and communities.

While Ax Men may no longer be on the air, the stories of its cast members live on in the hearts of viewers.

Gabe’s commitment to his family, his business, and his community will not be forgotten, and his memory serves as an inspiration for those who continue to work in the logging industry.

As we reflect on Gabe’s life and the legacy he left behind, we are reminded of the importance of community, resilience, and the enduring bonds of family.

His story is a testament to the challenges faced by those in dangerous professions and the impact of loss that ripples through the lives of those left behind.

Gabe Rygaard may be gone, but his spirit and contributions to the logging world will always be remembered.