Deadliest Catch star Todd Meadows is being remembered by family, friends and colleagues as a skilled fisherman and devoted father in the wake of his untimely death.
“Some men get called to the water. Not because it’s easy. Not because it’s safe. But because it’s who they are. Todd Meadows was one of those men,” PNW Outdoor Pursuits creator Isaiah Morrison wrote via Facebook on February 26. “For guys like Todd, the ocean wasn’t just work. It was purpose. It was how he provided. Early mornings. Long days. Cold hands. Brotherhood most people will never fully understand.”
Meadows died on February 25 while filming the hit television show, which debuted in 2005 and follows fishermen as they crab off the Alaskan coast. Morrison called his death at the age of 25 a “devastating loss for the fishing community” and all those who knew him.
“Everyone who knew him says the same thing. Hard worker. Solid deckhand. Good man. Good father,” Morrison continued in his tribute. “He loved being on the water, and he was proud of the life he was building out there.”
‘Deadliest Catch’ Star Todd Meadows’ Death and More Reality TV Tragedies
Captain Rick Shelford confirmed Meadows’ death via Facebook. The Deadliest Catch crew member reportedly “fell overboard” during his final trip at sea while serving as a deckhand on the Aleutian Lady fishing vessel.
The United States Coast Guard is currently investigating his death and an official cause of death has yet to be revealed.
A GoFundMe page has been created to help support Meadows’ extended family during this time. Nearly $32,000 has been raised to help support “his three boys, assist with funeral expenses and help ease the financial burden in the months ahead” at the time of publication.
Morrison’s tribute on social media led to many close friends and family members of Meadows honoring the fisherman online.
“Todd was my bunkmate. He loved his children and family above all else,” Trey John Green III wrote in the comments section. “I’m grateful to have met him aboard the F/V Aleutian Lady, how can we possibly continue?”
How Many People Have Died on ‘Deadliest Catch’? Todd Meadows and More
Kennady Harvey added in a separate comment, “Thank you for the tribute to my children’s father. He absolutely loved the brotherhood of fishing. I will never let his children forget him.”
While it’s unclear if and how Meadows’ death will be addressed in future episodes, those closest to the fisherman are focused on shining a light on the man they knew away from any cameras.
“We are all broken over this. This should never have happened. Especially to such a great person,” Nico Huerta commented. “A real man and a warrior. I loved him like a brother the short time I knew him. I took him under my wing and I wish I could have saved him. I’m sorry I couldn’t do better by time. Todd was more than a man, but a legend.”
