It is with profound sadness that we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, teammates, and the entire Iowa Lakes Community College community following the tragic passing of 19-year-old Tater Johnson of Rapid City. Tater lost his life in a devastating bus accident in Calhoun County, Iowa, while traveling with his college baseball team. This heartbreaking event has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him, as well as those who witnessed the tragedy and its aftermath.
Tater Johnson was more than a talented athlete; he was a dedicated teammate, a hardworking student, and a young man admired for his spirit, determination, and commitment to excellence both on and off the field. His passion for baseball and his unwavering support for his teammates made him an essential part of the Iowa Lakes Community College baseball family. He embodied qualities of leadership, perseverance, and camaraderie that inspired everyone around him, and his presence will be deeply missed.
The tragic bus crash occurred on February 11, when the Iowa Lakes Community College team bus went off the highway and overturned in a ditch on Iowa Highway 4 near 220th Street, just west of Twin Lakes. Emergency responders arrived immediately, declaring a Mass Casualty Incident due to the number of injured passengers. While 32 individuals sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious, Tater was among those who tragically did not survive. Rescue personnel and medical teams worked tirelessly to care for those affected, and many were transported to hospitals for treatment.
In moments like these, the profound impact of loss is felt not only by the family but also by the wider community. Tater’s teammates, classmates, and the college community are grappling with grief, shock, and sorrow, and the entire Iowa Lakes family is uniting to support one another through this difficult time. The college has emphasized that the safety, care, and well-being of students and staff remain their highest priority and has been actively providing support and communication to families and those affected.
As we honor Tater Johnson’s memory, we remember him for his dedication, energy, and the joy he brought to the baseball field, the classroom, and the lives of those around him. His legacy will live on in the memories he created, the friendships he nurtured, and the inspiration he provided to his peers.
We extend our deepest sympathy to Tater Johnson’s family, friends, and the Iowa Lakes Community College community. May they find strength in one another, comfort in the love that surrounds them, and peace in knowing that Tater’s life, spirit, and contributions will be cherished and remembered forever.
Rest in peace, Tater Johnson. Your legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew you.
