Mother shares heartfelt message after daughter’s death – Pine and Lakes Echo Journal

PINE RIVER — The mother of a 2024 Pine River-Backus graduate said her world was shattered Thursday morning, June 20, “when our sweet little girl was taken from us.”

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beautiful daughter Alyssa,” Laura Wheeler wrote on Facebook.

Alyssa Marie Wheeler, 17, of Longville, died June 20 after a head-on collision in Hubbard County, just less than a month after she graduated from Pine River-Backus High School on May 24.

Her mother wrote that Alyssa was on her way home from her dentist appointment in Park Rapids.

“In that moment, our world was changed forever,” wrote Laura Wheeler.

The crash was reported shortly after 10 a.m. June 20 on Highway 34 in Henrietta Township, east of Park Rapids.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Don Sherman, 50, Akeley, was eastbound on Highway 34 in his Ford F150 when he crossed the double yellow line near Eagle Bend Road and collided head-on with an oncoming Chevrolet.

The driver of the Chevrolet Cruze, Alyssa Wheeler, was pronounced dead at the scene. Sherman was transported to Sanford Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Both drivers were wearing seat belts, the State Patrol said.

Alyssa, the daughter of Todd and Laura Wheeler, received a Student of Character award from Sourcewell in April. The award recognizes area students for their quiet leadership, perseverance and dedication to their community, school and peers.

Alyssa was celebrated for her perseverance in the face of family tragedy which inspired her to help others. On Christmas Eve last year, her brother committed suicide.

“Her beautiful face, bright smile and kind heart will forever be remembered in our minds and hearts,” Laura Wheeler wrote. “Alyssa was compassionate, a cheerleader for the downtrodden, and an extraordinary young woman. It was an honor and privilege to have her in our lives.”

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at Salem Lutheran Church in Longville, followed by fellowship and refreshments.

The Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office, Park Rapids Police and Akeley Police responded to the call.