Caledonia teen killed in crash

By Scott Bellile

Students and staff are supporting one another in the aftermath of a crash that killed a student who was actively involved at New London High School.

Grant M. Madsen, 17, of Caledonia, died following a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 45 in the town of Lebanon Sunday, Feb. 10.

New London junior Grant Madsen gives senior Brennan Stroesenreuther a pregame handshake during the starting lineup introductions at a varsity basketball game earlier this season.
Erik Buchinger file photo

“Grant Madsen is an amazing young man,” NLHS Principal Brian Yerkey said Tuesday, Feb. 12. “He was gifted academically, participated in multiple sports and activities, and was extremely well-liked among his peers. He had a million dollar smile and the personality to match. Our hearts go out to the entire Madsen family and anyone affected by his passing.”

The son of Mike and Margie Madsen, Grant excelled in academics with a GPA of over 4.0, according to his obituary.

The high school junior was involved in numerous activities during his time at NLHS: basketball, soccer, golf, Math League, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, student council, DECA, band, Technology Student Association and HOSA-Future Health Professionals.

Outside of school, Grant worked a job, refereed youth basketball and engaged in community service. He was an usher at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church in New London and was preparing for confirmation.

Yerkey thanked the school districts of Hortonville, Weyauwega-Fremont and Waupaca for providing the NLHS “Bulldog Family” with counselors and support.

“In difficult times like these, I am thankful for the strong community, families, staff, and students we have in New London,” Yerkey said.

The NLHS administrative team and school counselors will continue offering support to students, staff and families, Laurie Schmidt, pupil services director, told the New London School Board on Monday, Feb. 11.

“While a heartbreaking scenario, we’re very happy that we were able to provide the support that was needed for our staff and our students and families, not just today, but also in the days to come,” she said.