A tragedy on the farm: What happened
Farmer’s Tragic Death Sparks Lifesaving Change
A Routine Task Turns Fatal
In August 2016, 29-year-old Wisconsin farmer Michael Biadasz died while preparing a manure pit on his family farm.
Sixteen cattle also perished. A rare weather pattern trapped toxic gases—
likely methane or hydrogen sulfide—over the area,causing instant suffocation.
“There was really no sign of anything being different,” said coworker Steve Burclaw.
Unimaginable Loss
Mike’s father, Bob Biadasz, was heartbroken.
“I never realized Mike touched so many
people,” he told the Stevens Point Journal after more than 1,200 mourners attended his son’s service.
Turning Grief Into Purpose
In Mike’s honor, his family created the Mike Biadasz Farm Safety and Education Memorial Fund
to raise awareness about manure gas hazards and promote safety training for farmers.
A Legacy of Awareness
His story now inspires nationwide farm safety efforts — ensuring no other family endures such a preventable tragedy.
