With Heavy Hearts: Remembering Tate William Lehnen
Beloved Son, Brother, and Friend — Taken Too Soon at 23
With heavy hearts, we announce the tragic passing of Tate William Lehnen, a 23-year-old man from Rice, Minnesota, who lost his life in a devastating car crash on the evening of August 7, 2025.
Tate’s life was cut short when his vehicle left the roadway and crashed into Horseshoe Lake near Richmond, Minnesota. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel and the heroic efforts of nearby citizens who pulled him from the submerged vehicle, Tate could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene. The suddenness and severity of the accident have left his family, friends, and community reeling in grief.
A Life Filled with Heart
Born on May 16, 2002, in St. Cloud, Tate was the youngest of three children and brought light, laughter, and love into the lives of everyone who knew him. Raised in Rice, he grew up surrounded by the fields, lakes, and forests of central Minnesota—a place he held close to his heart. From an early age, Tate developed a deep appreciation for nature, often spending his weekends outdoors fishing, hiking, and riding his ATV through the backwoods trails with friends.
He attended Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, where he was known not only for his quiet intelligence and curious mind but also for his kind and welcoming spirit. Tate had an easy smile and a warmth about him that made others feel at ease. He was the type of person who noticed when someone needed a friend, and he never hesitated to offer a listening ear, a ride, or a helping hand.
Tate was an old soul in many ways—genuine, grounded, and sincere. He didn’t care for superficial things. What mattered to him were loyalty, honesty, and time spent with the people he loved.
A Young Man With Big Dreams
After high school, Tate began building a life for himself with quiet determination. He worked hard in the trades, developing skills and pride in everything he did. He often talked about someday starting his own business and purchasing a piece of land where he could build a cabin near a lake. His dreams were simple yet meaningful—rooted in his love for Minnesota’s natural beauty and a desire to create a life of purpose and independence.
Those close to him knew that behind his laid-back demeanor was a young man with deep thoughts and a big heart. He loved country music, long drives down rural backroads, and spending hours under the open sky with a fishing rod in hand. He had a special bond with his family—always showing up for birthdays, holidays, and Sunday dinners. He was the kind of person who checked in just to say hello or to ask how your day was going.
An Unimaginable Loss
The news of Tate’s death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community of Rice and beyond. Friends, neighbors, former classmates, and coworkers have all come forward to share their heartbreak and their memories—of a young man who made the world a little brighter simply by being in it.
The site of the accident—Horseshoe Lake—has become a place of reflection. Flowers and candles now line the shore, left by those grieving and remembering a life that ended far too soon. Many have expressed disbelief that someone so full of life, kindness, and promise could be taken so suddenly.
His parents, Mike and Sara Lehnen, are devastated by the loss of their youngest child. In a brief statement, they expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support:
“Tate was our heart. He was gentle, hardworking, and full of compassion. He lived life in his own way—simple, honest, and with love. We are broken, but we are thankful for the love that surrounds us. Please keep Tate in your hearts.”
Tate is survived by his parents, Mike and Sara; his older siblings, Jenna and Kyle; his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends who became like family. His presence will be missed in every corner of the community—from bonfires and boat rides to family gatherings and early morning coffee runs.
Honoring His Memory
A public visitation and funeral service will be held in the coming days at a local church in Rice. Details will be shared by the family as arrangements are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Tate’s name to a local youth outdoors program—reflecting his passion for nature and his belief in giving young people a chance to explore the world with wonder and freedom.
As we remember Tate William Lehnen, we celebrate the life he lived—a life marked by quiet strength, genuine love, and a heart that gave so much to so many. Though his time with us was far too brief, his spirit will live on in the memories he created, the people he touched, and the land he loved.
May he rest in peace, and may those who loved him find comfort in knowing that even in his passing, Tate brought people together—with love, remembrance, and the reminder that every moment is a gift.
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