A tragic accident has claimed the life of Lucas Garbarino, a 17-year-old senior at West Ottawa High School in Holland, Michigan.
Garbarino, a popular wrestling and football star, died after falling while rock climbing during a visit to relatives in Utah on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
Garbarino had traveled to Utah to visit his father’s family, a place that held special significance for him. While there, he decided to go rock climbing but tragically fell during the excursion.
Despite efforts to save him, Lucas did not survive the fall.
The accident has left the Garbarino family devastated, and the community in Holland is mourning the loss of a bright and talented young man.
In a heartfelt post on the family’s GoFundMe page, the Garbarino family shared their plans for a memorial in Utah.
“Marissa and Gabe have decided to lay Lucas to rest in Utah.
Utah was a special place that Lucas loved and it is the current home of Lucas’ paternal uncle, aunt, and cousins,” the page reads.
The memorial service will be held on Monday, November 18th, starting at 1pm at Leavitt’s Mortuary & Memorial Park in Ogden, Utah.
The family is also accepting donations for the funeral costs and to support them during this difficult time. The GoFundMe has raised over $11,000 of its $15,000 goal as of the latest update.
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Following the memorial in Utah, a separate celebration of life will take place in Michigan later in the month to allow family and friends in Lucas’ hometown to pay their respects.
Lucas Garbarino was well-loved by his friends, coaches, and teammates.
His sudden passing has left many in shock. Brande Dishinger, a close friend, shared an emotional tribute to Lucas: “This hurts my heart so much… Lucas you are so loved. Lucas was the little brother I didn’t know I needed.
Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Garbarino for having such an amazing son, my family is so lucky we got so much time with him. I’m so sorry for your loss & I am praying for your family.”
Lucas was known for his kindness, sportsmanship, and positive attitude, and his death has left a significant hole in the hearts of those who knew him.
As the Garbarino family plans for their son’s final farewell, tributes continue to pour in from across the community.
Friends, classmates, and teammates remember him not just as an athlete, but as a compassionate friend and a young man who always had a smile on his face.
The family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and extended family.
Lucas’ Life and Legacy
Lucas Garbarino was a well-rounded student and athlete. A standout in both football and wrestling, he was respected for his discipline, work ethic, and leadership.
His death has left a profound impact on his high school, and tributes from coaches and teammates have highlighted his role as a positive influence and a source of inspiration for others.
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The tragic fall marks a heartbreaking end to the young man’s promising life, and his family and friends now seek comfort in their memories of him.
In the coming days, more tributes are expected, and his community in Michigan will gather to celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind.