Samantha Kesich, Kara Welsh, Samantha Buysse, and Samantha Kay Scherbarth: Remembering Four Bright Souls Lost Too Soon
In the span of just a few months, the communities of Milwaukee and Whitewater, Wisconsin, have been struck by the untimely deaths of four remarkable women: Samantha Kesich, Kara Welsh, Samantha Buysse, and Samantha Kay Scherbarth. Each of these individuals left an indelible mark on those who knew them, and their passing has left a void that will be felt for years to come. (Samantha Kay Scherbarth – 2024 – Harder Funeral Home)
Samantha Kesich: A Life of Dedication and Compassion
Samantha Kesich was a proud alumna of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where she distinguished herself not only through academic excellence but also through her unwavering commitment to community service. Her involvement in various campus organizations showcased her leadership abilities and her genuine desire to make a positive impact. Beyond her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Samantha was known for her vibrant personality and her ability to connect with others on a deep level. Her infectious smile and compassionate nature made her a beloved figure among her peers and professors alike.
Her unexpected passing has left a profound sense of loss within the university community and beyond. In honor of her memory, the university has established a memorial fund to support students pursuing careers in community service and leadership. This initiative aims to continue Samantha’s legacy of giving back and inspiring others to do the same.
Kara Welsh: A Star Athlete with a Bright Future
Kara Welsh, a 21-year-old student from Plainfield, Illinois, was a standout member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s gymnastics team. In 2023, she won an individual national title on the vault, a testament to her dedication and athletic prowess. Kara was also pursuing a degree in management in the College of Business and Economics, balancing her academic and athletic commitments with grace and determination. (– Announcements | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater)
Tragically, Kara’s life was cut short in a shooting off-campus on August 30, 2024. Her death has left the university community in mourning, with students, faculty, and staff coming together to honor her memory. Counseling services have been made available to support those affected by this loss, and the university flag was flown at half-staff in her honor. (– Announcements | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater)
Samantha Buysse: A Beloved Sorority Sister and Friend
Samantha Buysse was a member of the Alpha Sigma sorority at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater during her freshman year before moving back home to De Pere to continue her education in Green Bay. Despite no longer being an active member, Samantha remained deeply connected to her sorority sisters, who described her as graceful, courageous, kindhearted, and beautiful. She held two positions within the sorority: activities chair and a role in her new member class of 2022. (A forever sister – Royal Purple)
Her unexpected passing on January 28, 2025, was met with an outpouring of grief from her sorority sisters and the wider university community. A candlelight vigil was held in her honor, attended by members of all UW-W Greek chapters, demonstrating the deep bond and unity within the community. A GoFundMe campaign set up by her family raised $23,000 to cover funeral expenses, reflecting the love and support surrounding Samantha. (A forever sister – Royal Purple)
Samantha Kay Scherbarth: A Life Cut Short by Mental Health Struggles
Samantha Kay Scherbarth, affectionately known as Sammie, was a Brookfield, Wisconsin native who graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a degree in Human Resources. She was employed at Ruby Owl Tap Room and was known for her exceptional athletic abilities in softball and volleyball during high school. Sammie enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, nature, golf, and bowling, and had a deep love for her family, friends, and her cat, Franklin. (Samantha Kay Scherbarth – 2024 – Harder Funeral Home)
Sammie passed away on November 30, 2024, at the age of 28 after a long battle with mental health issues. Her death has highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and the need for supportive resources for those struggling with similar challenges. In lieu of flowers, memorials were directed to the Mental Health Association of Wisconsin, underscoring the family’s commitment to raising awareness and supporting others facing mental health struggles. (Samantha Kay Scherbarth – 2024 – Harder Funeral Home)
The Collective Impact of Their Loss
The deaths of Samantha Kesich, Kara Welsh, Samantha Buysse, and Samantha Kay Scherbarth have left a profound impact on their families, friends, and communities. Each of these women brought unique qualities and strengths to the world, and their untimely passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. (A forever sister – Royal Purple)
In response to these tragedies, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and the broader community have come together to provide support and resources for those affected. Memorial funds, counseling services, and community vigils have been organized to honor the memories of these individuals and to offer solace to those grieving their loss.
Honoring Their Memories
As we remember Samantha Kesich, Kara Welsh, Samantha Buysse, and Samantha Kay Scherbarth, it is important to celebrate their lives and the positive impacts they had on those around them. Their legacies continue to inspire acts of kindness, community involvement, and a commitment to mental health awareness.
In their honor, let us strive to embody the qualities they exemplified: compassion, dedication, resilience, and a deep love for others. By doing so, we ensure that their memories live on and that their contributions to our communities are never forgotten.
Conclusion
The loss of Samantha Kesich, Kara Welsh, Samantha Buysse, and Samantha Kay Scherbarth is a tragedy that has touched the hearts of many. While their time with us was brief, the impact they made will resonate for years to come. As we reflect on their lives, let us honor their memories by continuing the work they began and by supporting one another in times of grief and loss.
