LAKE GENEVA, Wis.— The third child who died after a boat capsized on Lake Geneva during the Fourth of July holiday weekend has been identified by her family.
A GoFundMe campaign created by relatives identifies the victim as 10-year-old Kathryn “Kate” Schmidt. She died alongside her cousins, 6-year-old Caleb Oswald and 7-year-old Abigail Oswald, whose family identified them through a separate fundraiser earlier this week.
Kate’s family described her as “a bright light” with a bubbly personality who loved tennis, softball, animals and spending time with family and friends.
“Whether you met her once or knew her well, she would brighten your life any time of day. She loved playing tennis and softball, spending time with animals, painting, and hanging out with her friends—whether it was on the court, at the pool, or just being with family. Her kindness and joy touched everyone she met, and our family will miss her deeply,” the family wrote on the fundraiser page.
Instead of flowers or donations at the funeral home, the Schmidt family is asking supporters to contribute to a fund that will help children who cannot afford to participate in sports such as tennis and softball or who wish to adopt animals– causes they say reflected Kate’s passions.
The Oswald family has also asked supporters to donate in memory of Caleb and Abigail. Proceeds from that fundraiser will benefit a children’s charity.
The three children died on July 3 after a rapidly developing storm created dangerous conditions on Geneva Lake, causing a boat to capsize and sink near Big Foot Beach State Park.
Seven people were rescued, but divers later located the sunken boat in about 32 feet of water with the three missing children inside. All three were pronounced dead.
The tragedy prompted an outpouring of support from communities in Wisconsin and Illinois, where the children attended school. Family members say the fundraising efforts are intended to honor the children’s memories by helping other children in need.
To donate, click here for both GoFundMe fundraisers: Oswald & Schmidt
