National Park Service Ranger Kevin Grossheim died Sunday while trying to rescue a family in distress on a Minnesota lake. His boat capsized in rough waters. The family was rescued but Grossheim drowned.National Park Service
A National Park Service law enforcement ranger drowned Sunday while trying to rescue a family in distress on Namakan Lake in Voyageurs National Park.
The Park Service has identified the fallen ranger as Kevin Grossheim, 55.
“Ranger Grossheim responded Sunday morning to a distress call from park visitors near Birch Cove Island. After taking a family of three aboard his National Park Service boat, the vessel overturned amid high winds and rough waters," NPS said in a press release.
The family that Ranger Grossheim rescued was able to make it to safety. The ranger, however, was missing after the accident. His body was discovered three hours later.
“Kevin was much loved by all and always known to go above and beyond,” said Voyageurs National Park Superintendent Bob DeGross said in a statement. “He will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to his wife and their loved ones.”
Ranger Grossheim served at Voyageurs National Park for more than 20 years. He volunteered with the Kabetogama Fire Department in addition to his work at the park. He was a Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) instructor and experienced boat operator familiar with navigating the local lakes of the park.
The National Park Service is continuing to investigate the details of Sunday’s incident.
