Will Tomlinson October 5, 2012 - August 9, 2025
Madison Capitols Players & Families,
It is with a heavy heart that I’m trying to write the email and find the words, but I really don’t feel like anything I say will suffice. As many of you know, Will Tomlinson, or “Wilbur,” as I liked to call him; passed away unexpectedly last Saturday afternoon, in a tragic UTV accident. He was just 12 years old.
Will played on our 2012 team the last couple of seasons, I had the privlege of coaching him, and my son Sawyer was lucky enough to play alongside him. Will was a remarkable young man. He was hardworking, smart, and incredibly tough. He was quiet at first, but once he felt comfortable, his personality shone through. He got along with everyone and was a true team player in every way. As a coach, Wilbur was a dream. He was incredibly coachable, always putting everything he had into every drill, scrimmage or game, and he never complained. He held himself to a pretty high standard, always striving to do things the right way and pushing himself to succeed. He was a great influence and friend to all of his teammates, as he led by example.
The news of Will's passing has been devastating for all of us. It’s hard to understand or accept the loss of someone so young and full of potential. I know that Will's teammates and friends are going to miss him dearly. My heart aches for his parents, Jennifer and Joe, his younger siblings, and everyone who loved him.
Will had a profound impact on me, and everyone else who was lucky enough to get to know him. Since hearing the news, I've been overwhelmed by memories of him, and thoughts of the pain his family is going through right now, I've found myself crying more in the last two days than I have in the last ten years. He was a special kid, and his absence will be deeply felt.
In the coming days and weeks, it's important that we support one another. This is a difficult time for everyone, especially the kids. Please reach out to your children, talk to them about their feelings, and let them know that it's okay to grieve. I’m here for any of our players who want to talk about this or anything else.
Will's memory will live on in our hearts. Let us remember him for his hard work, his dedication, his quiet strength, and the joy he brought to everyone in his life.
A GoFundMe has been setup to help in supporting Will's family with anything they choose to use it for, click here to be taken directly to the donation site.There will be a candle light There will be a candle light vigil to honor Will's life and support his family held on Thursday, August 14th @ 7:30p, it will take place at Fireman's Park, 400 Roosevelt Street, Rio, WI 53960. There are two visitations scheduled, one on Friday, August 15th from 4:00pm-7:00p, and will take place at Rio Middle/High School, 411 Church Street, Rio, WI 53960. The second visitation is scheduled Saturday, August 16th, from 10:00am-11:00am. The Mass of Christian Burial service will the follow the Saturday morning visitation, starting at 11:00am. Both the visitation and Mass of Christian Burial service on Saturday will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 5101 Schofield Street, Monona, WI 53716. Click here to be taken directly to Will's obituary.
With My Deepest Sympathies & Sadness,
Garrett Suter