Gov. Tony Evers ordered the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff across the state from sunrise until sunset on Sat., July 19, 2025, in honor of Wisconsin State Patrol Bureau Director David Pabst and his wife, Teresa “Teri” Pabst, who suddenly and unexpectedly lost their lives earlier this month.

“David and Teri Pabst were pillars of their community and dedicated public servants. Their tragic passing leaves a void in the hearts of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside them over the years,” said Gov. Evers. “On behalf of the state of Wisconsin, Kathy and I share our deepest condolences with David and Teri’s family, friends, colleagues, including the folks at the Wisconsin State Patrol, and all those who knew and loved them during what is a very difficult time. Their memories and contributions to make Wisconsin a better and safer place for all who call our state home will not be forgotten.”

Director Pabst led a life of public service and proudly served the Wisconsin State Patrol for more than 38 years, including 25 years as a law enforcement officer, rising through the ranks from trooper and inspector in the Northwest Region to sergeant, lieutenant, and captain at State Patrol headquarters in Madison. In 2013, Director Pabst was appointed director of the Bureau of Transportation Safety and Technical Services, where he used his knowledge and dedication to public safety to lead the State Patrol’s safety programs and public outreach efforts. Teri Pabst was a lifelong educator who was fiercely dedicated to the kids she worked with. Most recently, Teri served as a special education teacher at Thoreau Elementary School in Madison. David and Teri were married for nearly four decades, and their memory lives on through their children, Lora, Danielle, Heidi, and Martavous “Noah,” as well as their seven grandchildren.

Services for David and Teri Pabst will be held on Sat., July 19, 2025, in Middleton.

Executive Order #269 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Sat., July 19, 2025.