Gabe Rygaard Biography

Lost His Life Because of A Car Accident

One of the biggest truths of this world is that Death comes Unexpectedly. Nobody knows the day of their death, and surely, the reality star Gabe Rygaard also never thought he would die unexpectedly, especially on his son's birthday.

Yes, Rygaard died on September 16, 2016, which was his youngest son's 11th birthday. He lost his life at the age of forty-five in a car accident that involved three vehicles. His 1995 Ford Bronco hit the rear end of a black Chevrolet Tahoe that was in front of him. The collision forced his car into rotation and only stopped when it struck a Dodge Ram Van. The incident took place on U.S. Highway 101, a quarter-mile east of Laird Road, west of Port Angeles. 

Gabe Rygaard's accident scene. SOURCE: Peninsula Daily News

A total of seven people were injured in the car wreck. Other victims suffered only minor injuries, but since Rygaard was not wearing a seat belt, he suffered major injuries and was sent to the Olympic Medical Center. He was later pronounced dead by the doctors. 

One week later, on September 23, 2016, Gabe's memorial was conducted at King's Way Foursquare Church. More than 300 area residents and visitors attended to give condolences. 

Did Rygaard's Widow Marry Again?

Gabe Rygaard, at the time of death, was happily married to Katy Sotebeer-Rygaard. Though the exact date of their wedding is not known it is reported that the pair started dating back in 2003.

Gabe Rygaard with his wife Katy and his youngest kid Tucker. SOURCE: Gabe Rygaard Facebook(@Gabe Rygaard)

While talking about her dead husband, Kate stated that one of his strongest traits was that he was generous and kind-hearted. She further added:

“He did everything with great passion. He worked, and played and loved with great passion and he was larger than life.”

Thankfully, Kate has moved past the grief of losing her husband and has started a new relationship. On August 11, 2018, she got engaged to her new boyfriend named Robert L Lightfoot II, and a year later, on August 12, 2019, the two tied the knot. After marriage, she changed her name to Katy M. Lightfoot. 

Parent To Three Kids

Rygaard is survived by three children, namely Trilby Bowe Rygaard, Tucker Rygaard, and Aiden Rygaard. His daughter Trilby is married to Caleb Ashley and currently identifies herself as Trilby Ashley.

Gabe's eldest son Aiden Rygaard is an aspiring author. In 2018, he graduated from Central Washington University with a major in Anthropology. He also once made a cameo in the show "Ax Men" alongside his father.

Gabe Rygaard, with his son Aidan Rygaard and daughter Trilby Ashley. SOURCE: Aidan Rygaard Facebook(@Gabe Rygaard)

Rygaard's youngest son is Tucker Rygaard, who is just fourteen years old, as of Feb 2020. From Gabe's Facebook, it seems like he liked to spend quality time with his father who often took him fishing, camping, and even attending his football game.

Was A Successful Businessman

Gabe Rygaard grew up in a logging family where his father Craig Rygaard was the owner of the business Rygaard Logging. He started learning the craft of logging when he was in elementary school and even decided to pursue the business as an adult. However, his old man was against that. Thus respecting his father's wishes, he went off to college.

Gabe Rygaard was a certified master logger. SOURCE: Gabe Rygaard Facebook(@Gabe Rygaard)

After completing his education, he started working on a fishing boat in Alaska. After working there for a while, he returned to his hometown and joined the family company. After working under his father, he decided to form his own business and started Ryfield Properties Inc. 

Though the business was successful, he later merged his company with the family business. At the time of death, he was the owner-operator of Rygaard Logging Inc., and owner of Ryfield Properties Inc. in Port Angeles and Penny Creek Quarry in Quilcene, Washington.

Career As A Reality TV Star

Rygaard's family business Rygarrd Logging Inc was featured in the History Channel show "Ax Men." The company joined the series in season two and remained in the show till the series' cancellation in season ten. Shelby Stanga also appeared in Ax Men. 

Gabe Rygaard's company was featured in the History Channel show 'Ax Men.'  SOURCE: YouTube

Though there are reports that the company did not directly earn much from the show, there is no doubt the company got exposure and free advertisement from the show.

Overall Net-Worth

Rygaard, from his various business ventures, accumulated a nice net worth. At the time of death, his net worth was estimated to be $3 million.

Quick Facts: Gabe Rygaard

• Gabe was a native of Port Angeles, Washington, United States.
• His father's name is Craig Rygaard, whilst his mother's name is Kathy Rygaard.
• He grew up with his brother Jason Rygaard.
• He graduated from Port Angeles High School in 1989.
• Rygaard was once a Republican candidate for Clallam County Commissioner.
• He was a big fan of the football team The Seattle Seahawks.

Visit Married Wiki for more Biographies and Articles!!!