With immense sorrow, the Tomah, Wisconsin community is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Heather C. Beckjorden and Leath “Hųc Pį” “Digger” S. Lambert, both 46, who passed away together on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Their untimely deaths have left their family, friends, and the community grieving for two people who embodied love, loyalty, and joy. United in life for over 32 years, Heather and Digger walked side by side into eternity, their bond enduring even beyond death.

A Love That Spanned Over Three Decades

Heather and Digger’s love story began in their middle school years, a time when two young souls discovered an undeniable connection that would last a lifetime. Their love grew with each passing year, strengthened by shared passions, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to each other. As high school sweethearts, they navigated the ups and downs of adolescence together, eventually growing into adulthood as partners in life.

Their shared life was a journey of love, adventure, and the joy of being in each other’s company. Over the years, Heather and Digger built a life filled with memorable experiences, countless adventures, and a loving family. Whether at home or exploring the world around them, they always found joy in the simple things, like fishing, canoeing, and camping along the Kickapoo River, or taking spontaneous day trips on their Harley-Davidson Road King.

A Legacy of Love, Family, and Community

Though Heather and Digger’s individual stories were unique, they were united by their dedication to their family and community. They were a constant source of strength for their children and grandchildren, providing love, guidance, and a sense of security. Heather’s radiant spirit always shone brightly, and she was known for her deep care for others, always striving to bring joy to those around her. Digger’s infectious laughter was a hallmark of his personality—wherever he went, his humor and warmth filled the room.

Their love for each other was deeply rooted in their love for their family. Together, they embraced their role as grandparents with an unparalleled sense of pride and joy. They adored their grandchildren, who were the apple of their eye. Whether splashing around in the backyard pool or spending quiet moments together at home, Heather and Digger cherished every second spent with their loved ones.

In addition to their commitment to family, both Heather and Digger were known for their selflessness and dedication to their community. They devoted much of their time and energy to supporting local causes, from volunteering with youth sports teams to assisting with community events. They were actively involved in the Tomah area and were known for their ability to bring people together with their warm hearts and inclusive nature.

Family and Friends: A Pillar of Support

Heather was born on September 19, 1978, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Cheryl (Miller) Arends. Digger was born on April 22, 1979, in Tomah, Wisconsin, to Larry Lambert and Colette (LaMere) Guy. Both of them cherished their families, who remained an essential part of their lives, offering support, love, and guidance through every chapter. Heather’s family—particularly her mother, Cheryl Arends—was a constant source of strength, as were her siblings: Dustin (Cherie) Beckjorden, Nicole Beckjorden, Kayla (Jacob) DuBord, and Kaylee Hojnacki. Her nieces and nephews, including Miles Beckjorden, Haley Welch, Kyran Beckjorden, Zion Williams, Eric Williams Jr., Kaydan Humble, Kinley Pfeffer, Hudson DuBord, and Abigail DuBord, held a special place in her heart.

Digger, too, was surrounded by his large, loving family. His siblings—Desirae (Eric) Robarge, Sulynn LaMere, Casey (Jon) You, Kelly (Jordan) Westphal, Latoya (Tomas) Aguilar, Elaina Daughtery, and Marcus Hartwell—shared a close bond with him, and his father, Larry Lambert, and aunt, Suzette LaMere, were central figures in his life. He was also deeply connected to his extended family, including his nieces and nephews: Morgan and Ronan Robarge, Littea Benny, Colten, Jathan, Elijah, and Arielah You, Adrianne and Ace Westphal, Anna, Ayvah, Cruz, Isaac, Emma, and Letty Aguilar, Wacozu and Niyanta Cloud, and Haley, Forest, and Orion Hartwell.

Despite the tragic loss of their parents, Heather and Digger’s children—Justice Beckjorden, Lexus Lambert, and Haven Lambert—have been surrounded by an outpouring of love and support from both immediate and extended family. The grandchildren—Vivianna, Evie, Evren, and Aiven Beckjorden, Scarlett Lambert, and Kenai Tuchalski—will carry the legacy of their grandparents forward. Heather and Digger’s legacy of love, kindness, and community involvement will continue to live on in their children and grandchildren for generations to come.

Heather and Digger’s Shared Interests and Adventures

Throughout their lives, Heather and Digger made memories together that would last a lifetime. Their adventures ranged from fishing in the Kickapoo River to spontaneous motorcycle rides on their Harley-Davidson Road King, always seeking out new ways to enjoy life together. Their shared passions and love for the outdoors brought them closer, and the pair spent many weekends camping, hiking, and exploring nature.

Their love for each other was built on these shared experiences, and each moment spent together was cherished. They enjoyed participating in recreational activities, such as playing bingo or competing in pool tournaments as members of the Stansfield Pool League. The couple also enjoyed traveling together, embracing spontaneous adventures and day trips that created lasting memories.

Their greatest joy, however, came from being with their family, especially their grandchildren. Every visit, whether it was to their home or a family gathering, was a celebration of life, love, and the bonds that held their family together. Heather and Digger made sure that their grandchildren knew just how special they were and always took time to nurture the next generation of their family.

The Tragic Accident and the Community’s Response

On May 4, 2025, the community of Tomah was struck with the heart-wrenching news that Heather and Digger had tragically passed away together in an accident. Details surrounding the accident remain limited, but what is clear is that this loss has left an entire community in mourning. In the days following their death, local leaders, family members, and friends have expressed their sorrow and shared memories of the couple’s incredible impact on the town.

Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements, announced that a visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at their facility located at 801 E. Monowau Street, Tomah. The memorial service will follow at 12:00 noon, with a burial ceremony at Blue Wing Cemetery.

The Impact of Heather and Digger’s Loss on the Community

As Tomah grapples with the loss of these two community pillars, the impact of Heather and Digger’s death is felt deeply throughout the town. Their devotion to local organizations, youth sports, and community events left an indelible mark on the area, and their sudden departure has left a void that will be impossible to fill.

Local leaders have expressed their admiration for Heather and Digger’s tireless contributions to the community. Whether volunteering their time for youth sports leagues, supporting charitable organizations, or simply offering a listening ear to those in need, Heather and Digger embodied the spirit of giving. They were always ready to lend a hand and support others, and their generosity and selflessness were a source of inspiration to everyone who knew them.

“I cannot express how deeply Heather and Digger will be missed,” said one local community leader. “They were the kind of people who gave so much of themselves to others. Their presence will forever be felt in this town.”

The Community Comes Together in Grief and Celebration of Life

The tragic accident has brought together the people of Tomah in a collective show of support and love. The community has rallied around Heather and Digger’s family, offering condolences, emotional support, and practical assistance during this incredibly difficult time. The outpouring of love has been a testament to the profound impact the couple had on the lives of those around them.

As the community mourns, there is also a collective sense of celebration for the lives that Heather and Digger lived. Their story—a story of love, adventure, and generosity—will continue to inspire others long after their passing. Their legacy will live on in the hearts of their family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know them.

A Final Tribute to Heather and Digger

Heather C. Beckjorden and Leath “Hųc Pį” “Digger” S. Lambert’s lives were a reflection of love, devotion, and service to others. They were not only devoted to each other but also to their family, friends, and community. Their passing has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew them, but their spirit will live on through the memories they created and the legacy they left behind.

As the community gathers to honor their lives, it is clear that Heather and Digger’s love story—one that spanned over three decades—will never be forgotten. Their contributions to the community, their unwavering love for their family, and their joyful spirit will continue to inspire future generations. May their memory be a blessing, and may their spirits remain a source of strength and comfort to all who loved them.

In their memory, the family invites those who wish to honor their lives to attend the visitation and memorial services, where they will celebrate the remarkable lives of two individuals who touched so many hearts.