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The Howard community is reeling following the sudden and tragic loss of Kayla and Haley Fritsch, 26-year-old twins whose warmth, energy, and dedication touched everyone who knew them. The sisters, graduates of West De Pere High School’s class of 2017, were known for their boundless enthusiasm, caring nature, and zest for life.

Kayla and Haley devoted their careers to nurturing others, working as daycare teachers at Creative Kids, as well as at Bright Beginnings and Sit & Stay Pet Resort. In these roles, they brought joy and guidance not only to children but also to pets, leaving an indelible mark on families, colleagues, and the community. Their devotion to teaching and care reflected a profound kindness that went beyond their professional lives.

Outside of work, the twins shared a passion for sports and outdoor activities. High school tennis teammates, they maintained a love for athletics throughout their lives, cheering for the Green Bay Gamblers and rooting for the Pink Flamingos. The sisters also treasured moments spent at the Crandon Brush Run, camping trips, campfires, and watching their favorite show, Survivor. Yet above all, Kayla and Haley valued family time, with game nights at home standing out as their favorite shared moments with parents Patrick and Kelley Fritsch. Their beloved fur babies were another source of joy, reflecting their nurturing spirits and love for living beings of all kinds.

The Fritsch family shared that the girls are survived by their parents, Patrick and Kelley; grandmother Carol Fritsch; grandfather Rudy (Jackie) Kapla; and aunts and uncles Mike (Tina) Fritsch, Dan Fritsch, Tim (Mary) Fritsch, Paul (Becky) Fritsch, and Korey Kapla. They are also survived by numerous cousins, including Ryan (Michelle), Katie (Nick), Sydney, Mason, Addison, Ellie, Wyatt, Dustin, Daniel, and Lorenzo, as well as close friends Tasha and Katie. Kayla and Haley were preceded in death by grandparents Jerome Fritsch and Mernie (Tony) Kapla, as well as cousins Josh, Riley, and Desiree.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the lives of the Fritsch twins at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1305 Lourdes Ave., De Pere. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, November 14, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and will continue Saturday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Fr. James Baraniak O.Praem. In honor of their love of sports, attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite team attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that a memorial fund be established in Kayla and Haley’s names. Contributions will honor their legacy of love, joy, and commitment to the community, ensuring that the spirit of these remarkable twins continues to inspire and support others.

Kayla and Haley Fritsch’s lives were defined by compassion, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to family and community. Their memory will live on through the countless lives they touched, the lessons they shared, and the joy they spread to everyone around them.

The world of late-night television and music lost a cherished figure on Tuesday morning as Cleto Escobedo III, the band leader of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and leader of Cleto and the Cletones, passed away at the age of 59. The cause of death has not been released, but his absence from the ABC show in recent months due to illness was noted by colleagues and fans alike.

Jimmy Kimmel, Escobedo’s childhood friend and longtime collaborator, paid tribute to him on social media, expressing the profound grief he feels over the loss. Kimmel and Escobedo shared a bond that spanned decades, growing up across the street from each other in Las Vegas. Kimmel recalled, “The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children, and parents in your prayers.”

Escobedo’s musical journey was deeply intertwined with Kimmel’s career. When Kimmel launched his late-night show in 2003, he fought to bring Escobedo on board as the leader of the house band, ensuring that their unique chemistry would be a core part of the show’s energy. “I wanted somebody I had chemistry with. And there’s nobody in my life I have better chemistry with than him,” Kimmel shared. Escobedo’s dynamic presence and musical talent helped shape the tone of Jimmy Kimmel Live! for years, captivating audiences night after night.

Friends and colleagues have also expressed their sorrow and admiration. Jimmy Vega, a longtime friend of Escobedo, reflected, “It is with great sadness that one of my dearest childhood friends Cleto Escobedo III passed away early this morning. I’m crushed and devastated. I’m grateful that I was able to spend some quality time with him, his mom Sylvia, and dad Cleto last Thanksgiving 2024. My love and deepest condolences to his wife Lori and his two children. Also to his mom and dad. God bless your soul, my friend, I’m going to miss you. Prayers for Cleto.”

Escobedo’s influence extended far beyond the television stage. Known for his warmth, humor, and generosity, he was a mentor and inspiration to many musicians. As the leader of Cleto and the Cletones, he helped craft a signature sound that became synonymous with late-night entertainment, blending rhythm, soul, and charisma in every performance.

Jimmy Kimmel himself canceled a recent episode of his show to be by Escobedo’s side, a testament to the deep personal and professional bond they shared. The loss of Escobedo leaves a significant void in both the music and entertainment communities, but his legacy—through his performances, mentorship, and lifelong friendships—will continue to resonate for years to come.

Cleto Escobedo III’s life was defined by music, friendship, and an unwavering passion for his craft. His memory will live on in the melodies he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.

The Durham Middle School community in Acworth, Georgia, is grieving the loss of Londyn Whited, a cherished member of the school family. Students, teachers, and staff have come together to honor Londyn’s memory and reflect on the impact she had during her time at the school.

Londyn was known for her bright spirit, infectious smile, and the genuine kindness she extended to everyone around her. Teachers recall her curiosity in the classroom, her eagerness to participate, and the way she encouraged her peers to do their best. Students remember her as a loyal friend who always made time to listen, laugh, and support others, creating a welcoming and uplifting environment wherever she went.

“Londyn had a heart that touched everyone she met,” said a faculty member. “Her presence brought joy to our hallways and classrooms. She reminded us all of the importance of kindness and community.”

The school is offering additional support services for students and staff to navigate this difficult time. Counselors are available to provide guidance, comfort, and a safe space to share feelings and memories. Staff are encouraging students to lean on one another and the broader school community as they process the loss together.

Londyn’s family, friends, and classmates are coming together in remembrance, celebrating her life and the meaningful connections she made. The Durham Middle School community has expressed its condolences and emphasized the importance of supporting one another in moments like these.

Though her time with the school was far too short, Londyn Whited’s warmth, laughter, and spirit will continue to resonate throughout Durham Middle School, leaving a lasting legacy of friendship, compassion, and love.

The Albert Lea community is grieving the unexpected loss of 34-year-old Mason Tuohy, whose vibrant personality, adventurous spirit, and deep love for people left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Mason’s family shared that he experienced a sudden medical emergency on Saturday morning. Following a meeting with the coroner, loved ones were told only that the cause was considered a “natural death,” with no further clarity yet available. Arrangements for his memorial service are currently being planned.

For Mason’s family, the shock remains overwhelming. His mother, Mary Tuohy, expressed the profound heartbreak of losing someone who embraced life with so much enthusiasm and intention. She described her son as someone who lived fully, spent his time doing what he loved, and never held back from exploring the world. Mason traveled extensively, immersing himself in new experiences, new cultures, and the joy of discovering what was around the next corner.

Hockey was one of his greatest passions. Mason followed the sport closely, watching games whenever he could fit them into his day. Whether cheering from home or catching matches during his travels, the sport was a thread woven through much of his life. His golden retriever, fittingly named Gretzky, was his constant companion, joining him on trips and adventures across the country and beyond.

Friends and family say Mason’s gift was not only how he lived, but how he made others feel. He had a remarkable ability to form connections with people from all walks of life. Those who met him—even briefly—often walked away feeling as though they had gained a friend. His warmth, humor, and easygoing nature made him a person others gravitated toward.

St. Theodore Catholic Elementary School, where Mason’s mother teaches Kindergarten, shared a heartfelt tribute as the school community absorbed the news. The staff described Mason as someone who filled his 34 years with remarkable joy, curiosity, and compassion. Their message offered prayers and support to Mrs. Tuohy and her family, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt within the school. They shared a passage from Psalm 34:18—“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit”—as a message of comfort during an incredibly painful time.

As Albert Lea mourns, stories about Mason continue to pour in—memories of his generosity, his ability to find wonder in everyday moments, and his unwavering desire to squeeze every drop of joy out of life. While his years were far too few, they were lived with intention, excitement, and kindness.

Family, friends, and community members now hold tightly to those memories as they navigate the days ahead. Mason’s legacy—one of adventure, laughter, and genuine connection—remains firmly rooted in the hearts of all who knew him.