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Stay safe: Flip, float and follow

Family of drowning victim dedicates plaque, lifesaving equipment

Justin Schroepfer, above, left, died last summer while attempting to rescue two women struggling in Lake Superior near Little Presque Isle. A special plaque detailing last year’s tragedy and warning swimmers of the dangers of Lake Superior was placed on a box that holds an Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard (E.M.I.L.Y.) — a 4-foot long remote controlled buoy that can cruise through rip currents and heavy waves at speeds up to 22 mph to reach distressed swimmers. (Photos courtesy of the Schroepfer family)

MARQUETTE — Justin Schroepfer’s family said he was a person that knew Lake Superior and its dangers.

“He was also a person that could not watch two people struggle without helping,” said his father, Kevin Schroepfer.

Nearly a year ago, Justin entered the cold, wavy waters of Lake Superior near Little Presque Isle in an attempt to save two women he had never met.

Unfortunately, the 24-year-old from Rhinelander, Wisconsin, died during his attempt. Kaylilyn Tansey, 22, of downstate Grand Ledge, also succumbed to strong currents and waves in the area that warm June 11 afternoon. Another 22-year-old woman was rescued by bystanders utilizing life vests.

On May 21, Justin’s family held a special dedication near the site of the drownings, to thank those that were involved in the recovery of Justin and Kaylilyn, as well as the rescue of Abigail Sprinkle.

“We can not say it enough — thank you,” said Kevin Schroepfer at the gathering of family, friends and emergency first responders Sunday, on behalf of Justin’s family and fiance Suzy Solin. “Risking your lives to help others you do not know and your acts of kindness will last a lifetime. Thank you for showing your great love to others.”

They also thanked those involved in the planning, construction and installation of the water safety features around the park — including lifesaving stations outfitted with life rings and life jackets, that were installed last year.

A special plaque detailing last year’s tragedy and warning swimmers of the dangers of Lake Superior was placed on a box that holds an Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard (E.M.I.L.Y.) — a 4-foot long remote controlled buoy that can cruise through rip currents and heavy waves at speeds up to 22 mph to reach distressed swimmers.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community donated robotic lifesaving equipment and training, valued at more than $20,000, to enhance the water rescue capabilities of first responders in the Marquette area.

Both the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Marquette City Fire Department received E.M.I.L.Y devices.

The DNR’s device will be stationed near Little Presque Isle Point during the summer season, said Jeffrey Loman, business development officer of the Great Lakes Unmanned Systems Center — a subsidiary of Aanikoosing Inc., KBIC’s economic development corporation.

Loman was at the dedication May 21, and helped to lead a demonstration of the E.M.I.L.Y.

“When you realize someone is having trouble in the water, you can deploy it and provide, very rapidly, floatation for that person that is in trouble,” said Loman.

Local emergency responders, if not already, will be trained to use the equipment in emergency situations. Anyone that has gone through the necessary training will be able to access it.

“We remember Justin for his bravery in giving the ultimate sacrifice while attempting to help two individuals he did not know,” reads the plaque. “We ask that you please keep in mind the safety of yourself and others when swimming in this lake and while attempting to cross what looks like an easy task. … Please, help us prevent another tragedy from occurring, and, if attempting to cross, never do so without a life jacket.”

Kevin Schroepfer said he’ll remember Justin for his bravery and caring nature.

“Those that knew Justin were not surprised he tried to help,” Kevin Schroepfer said during a speech Sunday. “All those who knew him will remember his smile, kindness and how he was a witness to his faith. In our eyes, he was a hero and gave his life to help others.”

Kelsie Thompson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 206. Her email address is kthompson@miningjournal.net.

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