Richard Gadbois Obituary, Death – The Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office received a distress call on Friday morning regarding a truck and a body that had fallen through the ice on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. The caller informed the authorities about the specific location on the ice where the truck had gone under and also mentioned that they had discovered the body of an adult male floating in the water. Fortunately, the caller was able to retrieve the individual and bring him back to shore.
It is worth noting that the man found floating in the water was wearing a flotation device, as confirmed by the sheriff’s department. The authorities promptly transported the deceased male, identified as Richard Francis Gadbois, 80, to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead. According to the sheriff’s office, Gadbois, who operated an ice fishing outfitter on Mille Lacs, was checking the ice conditions at the time of the incident.
Authorities warn drivers
Meanwhile, the Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office has warned the public to be more careful as extreme temperatures grip the country.
“This is another reminder to the public that ice conditions are not safe for driving cars and trucks on right now,” said the sheriff’s office. “The ice was approximately 6” thick where this tragic incident took place. The recommended guideline for clear ice is 13-17” for a truck. The ice on many lakes across the state is not good clear ice due to rains and warm temperatures.”
Mille Lacs Lake is approximately 107 miles north of Minneapolis. The incident took place near MSA Flagship Inn about 8 miles from Isle.
‘Dickie’
Gadbois, popularly known as “Dickie,” was a community staple and “hometown hero” for nearly 50 years, a GoFundMe for his funeral and medical expenses said.
“Just knowing Dickie made you a better person,” said the GoFundMe page. “From his work ethic to knowledge of the lake, down to his laugh, he was just an all-around great human!”