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Join family, friends, and the community to honor the memory of Tyler James Cole, a passionate young outdoorsman, with an annual youth bear hunt and scholarship fundraiser event. This event helps carry on Tyler’s legacy through youth hunting opportunities and support for students pursuing trade careers.
Tyler passed away on October 25, 2023 as a result of a car accident at the age of 16 years old. He was a Junior in high school. Tyler’s passions were hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, tractor pulling and softball.
Each year, a youth hunter is selected for a no-cost black bear hound hunt with a parent or guardian. The 2025 bear tag was generously donated by Robert Hansmann. The hunt is made possible by AR Bear Bait of Merrill and Serious Freedom Lodge of Spirit Falls.
Tyler hadn’t yet decided what path he would take after graduation, but his family knew it would have involved a career in the trades. To honor that direction and his memory, they have established a scholarship fund to support local high school students who plan to attend trade school.
Tickets are available in advance at AR Bear Bait in Merrill and select locations.
Julie Dellenbach Cole – (715) 573-3345
Rick Seliger – (715) 218-4091
The Rib Mountain Bowmen fosters a welcoming community for all archery enthusiasts, by providing practice facilities and promoting the sport for both recreation and legal game hunting.
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