New Richmond, WI — The town of New Richmond is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Louie Miller, a 39-year-old outdoorsman who was found dead on April 12, 2025, after being reported missing the day before during a solo outing in the Cylon State Wildlife Area.
Louie had gone out Friday afternoon on what should have been a routine scouting trip into the woods northeast of town—a familiar place for him, where he often sought peace and purpose. When he didn’t come home that evening, concern grew quickly. His vehicle was located near a trail access point, and cellphone data revealed his last location deeper in the forest.
In response, local authorities, firefighters, and dozens of volunteers launched an overnight search. That effort sadly ended the following day when Louie’s body was discovered just after 1 p.m. within the designated search zone. The cause of death is still under investigation, and officials have not released further details.
Louie’s family issued a heartfelt message thanking the community for its outpouring of support and asking for privacy during their grief. Their words reflected the shared sorrow of many who knew and loved him.
Known for his love of nature and his deep connection to the land, Louie was more than just an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a friend who listened more than he spoke, a mentor who taught by doing, and a soul who found peace in the stillness of the woods. He shared his love for the outdoors freely—whether showing a child how to cast a line or guiding a friend on a hike.
Since the news of his passing, tributes have filled social media, painting a picture of a man whose life quietly touched many others. People recall his calm presence, steady character, and the way he brought people together—without ever trying to be the center of attention.
Louie’s absence is felt not only in his family and friend circles but also in the broader community that respected him for who he was and how he lived. His story is a reminder of the risks that can come with solitude in nature, but also of the power of community response and compassion in moments of tragedy.
Memorial service details will be shared by the family in the coming days. To honor his memory, donations are being encouraged to the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and local search and rescue organizations—causes that reflect Louie’s values and lifelong passion for the outdoors.
Though gone far too soon, Louie Miller’s spirit lives on in the wild places he loved, the lessons he passed down, and the lives he shaped through quiet strength and deep kindness.
