On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the community of Wichita, Kansas, was struck by a heartbreaking tragedy as news spread of the untimely death of Abagail “Abby” Eklund. Originally from Salina and later a resident of Wichita, Abby’s life was cut short in a devastating accident that sent shockwaves through both towns and across a wide circle of family, friends, neighbors, and those who had the joy of knowing her radiant spirit.

The circumstances surrounding the accident have not been elaborated on, but the aftermath has been defined by a communal outpouring of grief, remembrance, and unity. According to Abby’s family, she passed away surrounded by her loved ones. Her passing has left a void that can be felt deeply—not just within her immediate family but throughout the community where she was known as a daughter, sister, niece, neighbor, and friend.

Tributes have begun pouring in across social media and local platforms. Among the most heartfelt messages came from Natural Beauty Tanning & Spa, a local business that echoed the sentiments of many. In a statement shared with the public, they wrote: “We are asking for prayers as we came to learn that our friends have tragically lost their daughter and sister. Abby Eklund was a joy and a light to everyone around her.”

Their grief moved them to action. The salon announced that a portion of all sales from the following day through the end of the week would be donated directly to Abby’s family to assist with expenses during this difficult time. In addition, they set up a donation jar and a Venmo fund at the salon. These gestures reflect the tight-knit nature of the Wichita and Salina communities—where neighbors not only mourn together but also mobilize to support one another in times of hardship.

In tandem, a GoFundMe campaign and Meal Train initiative were launched to offer structured avenues for friends, coworkers, and caring strangers to help the Eklund family. While the goals of these campaigns are financial in part, they also serve a symbolic role: they are declarations of collective grief, love, and the desire to honor a life that gave so much joy to others.

Abby’s life, while tragically short, was impactful. Though her public obituary and formal funeral arrangements have yet to be released, the shape of her legacy is already emerging in the stories and memories shared by those who loved her. She was, by every account, someone who brought warmth and brightness to those around her.

The language used by Natural Beauty Tanning & Spa—describing Abby as “a joy & a light”—resonates because it is echoed in nearly every message posted by friends and family. Her loss is felt not only in the silence left behind but in the vibrant spaces she once filled with her energy, her laughter, and her presence.  GoFundMe

In the days ahead, memorial plans will be announced, and further tributes will likely reveal even more about Abby’s life—her passions, her ambitions, and the small, meaningful ways she impacted the people around her. Until then, her community continues to rally, unified by grief but also by gratitude for having known someone as beloved as Abagail Eklund.  GoFundMe

Her passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of community. Through shared sorrow, Wichita and Salina honor Abby’s memory with a depth of love that speaks to the profound legacy she leaves behind.  GoFundMe