LA CROSSE, WI — With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, the Gundersen Health System and the wider La Crosse community are mourning the sudden and unexpected passing of Josh Sendelbach, a deeply respected paramedic, beloved friend, and compassionate caregiver. Josh’s death has sent shockwaves through the healthcare and emergency services network, leaving behind not just the loss of a colleague, but the loss of a true light in the lives of all who knew him.
A native son of Whitehall, Wisconsin, Josh was the embodiment of small-town values and big-hearted service. He graduated from Whitehall Memorial High School, then went on to pursue higher education at Western Technical College and later at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. With a keen intellect and an even bigger heart, Josh carved out a path of purpose, one rooted in healing, support, and selfless dedication.
He found his professional home at Gundersen Health System, where he quickly became a pillar of the emergency medical services (EMS) team. Known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his grace under pressure and compassionate approach to patient care, Josh exemplified what it means to serve others in their most vulnerable moments.
To his colleagues and friends, Josh was so much more than just a paramedic. He was a source of strength, a reliable presence during chaotic times, and a wellspring of humor during the darkest shifts. Whether navigating the controlled chaos of the ER or responding to late-night emergencies, Josh’s quick wit and calming demeanor were ever-present, offering solace and stability to patients and teammates alike.
Those who worked alongside him often describe him as the kind of professional you always hoped to have by your side—the one who remembered the small details, who instinctively knew when to offer a comforting word, who carried the weight of others’ pain with both grace and quiet courage. He was a man who not only answered the call of duty but did so with humility and an open heart.
In his personal life, Josh’s warmth extended far beyond his workplace. He was a loyal friend, a beloved son, a trusted confidant, and someone who never failed to show up for the people he cared about. Whether he was grabbing a coffee with coworkers after a grueling shift or sharing a story to make someone smile, his presence was magnetic, healing, and deeply meaningful.
One close friend and fellow paramedic shared a heartfelt tribute:
“From our wild, exhausting, laughter-filled days in paramedic school to the endless stories and unforgettable moments in the ER during third shift—you always knew how to bring humor and comfort, even in the toughest times. Your kindness, wit, and unwavering spirit made every challenge more manageable and every day brighter. I am forever grateful for your friendship, your support, and the countless memories that will stay with me always. Though you may be gone, your laughter and the lessons you shared will continue to live on in all of our hearts. Fly high Josh, we got it from here.”
Josh’s passing has created a void that cannot be measured, and the grief felt throughout the EMS and healthcare community is immense. Yet in their mourning, those who knew him also celebrate a life lived with profound compassion, relentless dedication, and quiet heroism.
Gundersen Health System has extended its condolences to Josh’s family and loved ones, stating that his contribution to the organization and the wider La Crosse community will never be forgotten. Plans for a celebration of life and memorial service are currently being arranged and will be announced in the coming days.
In this time of sorrow, the community clings tightly to the legacy that Josh leaves behind—a legacy of service, humor, loyalty, and love. His impact is indelible, his memory cherished, and his spirit will continue to guide those he left behind.
Rest in peace, Josh Sendelbach. Your shift may be over, but your story, your heart, and your legacy live on.
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