Gabriel’s journey with cancer began at just 17 years old, when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and rushed into emergency surgery at Children’s Hospital in Green Bay. What followed were months of chemotherapy and radiation, requiring frequent travel to Milwaukee and Oshkosh.
Through it all, Gabriel showed remarkable strength, eventually reaching remission and looking ahead to the future.
In December 2021, Gabriel met Jenna, whose own life had been deeply touched by cancer. The two quickly built a bond rooted in love, resilience, and understanding. They became engaged in January 2023 and began planning their wedding for that September. But life had other plans. In May, Gabriel noticed a bump near his surgical scar, and by July he underwent another surgery in Madison. During that procedure, Jenna made the heartbreaking decision to cancel their wedding plans. Gabriel was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare cancer that had begun deteriorating his skull.
Despite the devastating news, Gabriel pressed on. He began aggressive chemotherapy in September 2023, just two weeks before he and Jenna chose to marry in an intimate backyard ceremony, surrounded by love. Though the treatments took a toll on his heart, hearing, and eyesight, Gabriel continued to fight. In early 2024, Gabriel and Jenna temporarily relocated to Illinois so he could undergo 40 rounds of specialized proton beam radiation therapy. They faced each day together with courage; Jenna working full-time while Gabriel stayed active through the hospital’s wellness center. He completed treatment on April 1, 2024.
With hope renewed, Gabriel returned to school and part-time work, and he and Jenna began dreaming of a family. In February 2025, they received the joyful news that they were expecting their first child. Around that same time, Gabriel was diagnosed with a seizure disorder, and his vision continued to decline. Later that year, in August, scans revealed the cancer had returned. Gabriel began another intense chemotherapy regimen; enduring many hospital stays and frequent transfusions. Even in the midst of these challenges, he remained determined. In November 2025, he experienced one of the greatest joys of his life: the birth of his son, Rory.
In December, following emergency surgery and further scans, Gabriel learned the cancer had spread to his brain. After consulting with his care team, he made the deeply personal decision to stop treatment and enter hospice, choosing to spend his remaining time surrounded by loved ones. Gabriel was able to celebrate Christmas and his birthday at home, creating lasting memories with family and friends. On February 2, 2026, he passed away peacefully, with those closest to him by his side.
Though cancer was a significant part of Gabriel’s life, it never defined him. He will be remembered as someone who loved all things nerdy, an incredible cook, a natural jokester, and, above all, a devoted husband and father. His strength, humor, and love leave a lasting legacy in all who knew him.
