Family Honors Veteran Motorcyclist Killed in Valley Crash: A True American Who Helped Everyone

Family members have identified the victim of a tragic motorcycle accident as Michael Pabst.

SURPRISE, Ariz. — The Pabst family reflects on the life of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, emphasizing his pride in his military service and love for the Green Bay Packers. “He was a proud American. He was a proud retired (veteran). He was a proud Packers fan,” lamented Lani Pabst, Michael’s wife.

Michael Pabst lost his life in a car accident last Friday, a tragedy that has left his loved ones reeling. “He put everybody, not just family, above himself,” daughter Courtney French recalled. Her father would go out of his way to help even strangers, showcasing his generous spirit.

His Harley-Davidson motorcycle was a cherished possession, and when Michael failed to return home as expected, alarm bells rang for his family. “He takes the same route every day. He’ll call my mom and say ‘hey I’m on my way home,'” French said. When he didn’t call, concern grew.

Seeking information, French turned to social media and discovered news about a motorcycle crash in the area. Trusting her instincts, she quickly drove to the scene near Luke Air Force Base, fearing the worst. “I was like ‘I think that’s my dad. I need to know if that’s my dad’,” she recounted before confirming her worst fears.

According to Glendale police, Michael swerved to avoid a collision with another vehicle but was struck by a school bus, resulting in his immediate death. French shared her pain, expressing a desire to know if her father felt loved in his final moments.

In the wake of this tragedy, the community has stepped forward to support the grieving family. “The amount of support we’ve gotten from the community is unbelievable,” French noted, highlighting the fundraisers organized in Michael’s memory.

The Pabst family stresses the significance of expressing love for one another, underscoring how quickly life can change. “Wear your helmet. Wear your safety gear, even though it doesn’t look cool,” Lani implored. Additionally, Michael’s son, Mickey, urged drivers to be more vigilant around motorcyclists to ensure their safety on the road.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family during this difficult period, inviting those who wish to contribute. This tragedy has not only impacted the Pabst family but has also resonated throughout the broader community.