GREEN LAKE, WI — An overwhelming wave of sorrow has swept through the City of Green Lake following the heartbreaking loss of Emmet Zodrow, a bright and beloved 12-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in a bicycle accident on the grounds of the Castecker Library on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
This devastating incident has left the entire community reeling. Emmet’s passing is not only a profound loss to his family but to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. A boy of exceptional warmth, kindness, and light, Emmet touched the lives of so many in his short time on Earth. His smile, his joy, and his compassionate heart will be remembered always.
Emmet Zodrow was a vibrant spirit—full of energy, curiosity, and love. He had a passion for life that radiated from the moment he entered a room. He loved playing baseball, spending hours in the sun with his teammates and friends, riding his bike through town with youthful freedom, and reading books that took him on endless adventures. He had a natural ability to make people feel seen and cared for, often through small acts of kindness and his ever-present, genuine smile.
He shared a deep and loving bond with his family, especially his younger sister, Elliat, whom he adored with his whole heart. The two were inseparable—a pair of best friends united by giggles, mischief, and unconditional love. Emmet cherished every moment with his family, and he was especially proud to help out with his parents’ local businesses, always eager to contribute and learn.
Another one of Emmet’s favorite pastimes was hiding painted rocks around town, delighting in the joy it brought others when they found them. It was just one of many ways he quietly spread happiness, never needing praise or attention—just content to brighten someone’s day.
“Emmet had these sparkling blue eyes that held so much light,” one neighbor shared. “He was wise beyond his years but never lost his childlike wonder. His presence made our community better.”
In the wake of this tragedy, the Green Lake community has come together to honor Emmet’s memory, surrounding his family with love, prayers, and support. A growing memorial outside the Castecker Library stands as a tribute to his life—flowers, baseball gloves, hand-painted rocks, and heartfelt notes left by those who will never forget him.
Plans are underway for a celebration of life to be held in the coming days, where family, friends, classmates, and neighbors will gather to share memories, tears, and moments of remembrance for the boy whose life was filled with joy and purpose.
While Emmet’s time here was far too brief, his impact was immeasurable. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and love—a legacy that will continue to ripple through the hearts of those who knew him and those who will come to know him through the stories now shared.
To honor Emmet, the family encourages the community to keep doing the things he loved: paint a rock and hide it, read a book with a child, ride your bike, or simply tell someone you love them. In those small, powerful acts, Emmet’s spirit will live on.
Rest in peace, Emmet Zodrow. Your light will never be forgotten, and your memory will forever shine in the heart of Green Lake.
