Student remembered for laughter, warmth

Members of the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus community are remembering Dylan Ellefson as a warm and funny friend who would have made an outstanding Spanish teacher.

Ellefson, 21, was killed in a two-car accident in the 1400 block of East Johnson Street around 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 24, according to Madison Police. Madison Fire Rescue transported Ellefson to a nearby hospital where he later died, according the report.

Ellefson, originally of Sun Prairie, was majoring in Spanish education in the School of Education.

“Dylan was one of those friends that are too good to be true,” recalls his friend and roommate, UW–Madison senior Melissa Janssen. “He always had a big smile on his face. He enjoyed life so much! I remember him saying once that he wanted to live life for the laughter and funny moments.

“He was always willing to do something silly or make fun of himself to make a friend laugh,” she adds. “I have so many ridiculous memories of him doing silly things in our apartment. It is a real tragedy that such a beautiful human being was taken from the world. I feel bad for everyone who never got a chance to meet him.”

Another friend and roommate, Jamie Primack, says that Ellefson would have made an excellent Spanish teacher and regrets he didn’t have more time to launch his career.

“I believe he would have succeeded and had an incredible impact on the lives of many children,” she says. “Dylan put a smile on the faces of so many people, and it’s tragic that his life had to be cut so short. He had an incredible future ahead of him, and he was loved by so many people. Hopefully, people will focus on all the good times they had with him, and not how early he was taken from us. His friends all love him and miss him dearly.”

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a member of our community,” adds Dean of Students Lori Berquam. “The Division of Student Life offers our thoughts and prayers to all those who knew, attended class or worked with Dylan.”

UW-Madison has resources available to the campus community, including individuals or groups, who have been affected by the tragedy.

Students interested in crisis support as a result of this or any other situation are encouraged to call University Health Services Counseling and Consultation Services, either during business hours or through its 24-hour crisis line, 608-265-5600.

Faculty or staff members in need of counseling are encouraged to call the Employee Assistance Office at 608-263-2987.

Students, faculty or staff members interested in organizing a campus memorial for Ellefson are encouraged to call the Division of Student Life at 608-263-5700 or e-mail dean@studentlife.wisc.edu.

Anyone who witnessed the accident or may have more information is asked to contact Madison Police at 608-266-5981.