While I write this letter to you on behalf of the School Board of Education and the entire Iron Mountain School District, I write this from the depths of my heart and share with you my personal thoughts. It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I address you today to share the heartbreaking news of the passing of a recent graduate from Iron Mountain Schools over this past weekend. Gabe Richtig graduated from IMPS in 2022 and is a valued member of our Mountaineer community.
Gabe was not only a Mountaineer but also a loving family member and those who knew him in our Mountaineer community will tell you he modeled kindness and respect for others, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of everyone he encountered.
During Gabe’s time with us, he demonstrated exceptional character that reflected his perspective towards loving family and friends. After graduation, Gabe continued his education in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, where he trained as a heavy equipment operator. Upon graduating from heavy equipment operations school, Gabe returned home and worked for MJ Electric in the Drilling Division. If Gabe were not at work, you would likely find him at a fishing hole doing what he loved: fishing. It didn’t matter if Gabe was with friends or took the time alone; he loved spending time outside and enjoyed every moment of sending out the next cast.
At IMPS, our dedicated staff works diligently towards instilling in students what it looks like to treat others around you with respect, regardless of opinions or feelings. We work with parents, teaching our students what it means to not only be a part of a community but to be a contributing and valued member of that community. To that end, we are proud to say Gabe is a Mountaineer. Gabe exhibited these qualities towards the people in his life, and the entire community will deeply feel his absence.
The passing of a young person in our community causes unimaginable levels of anxiety and distress. While we mourn with those who mourn, I pray there can be peace for this family that surpasses all understanding. The outpouring of love this community has already shown this family I know has profoundly impacted their lives. Please continue to keep the Richtig family, their friends, and others impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers as many learn to cope with this terrible loss.
Sincerely,
Jerome J. Sardina
Superintendent

richtig_letter.pdf |