Madison Reporter

Erich Stubbe, remembered as a committed public servant and devoted family man, was honored posthumously as an organ donor at University Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. His family, friends, and staff from UW Health and UW Organ and Tissue Donation gathered to commemorate his final act of service. Anna Stubbe, Erich's wife, emphasized his unwavering belief in helping others, stating, “He was a registered donor when we met.”

At 36, Stubbe was critically injured in a motorcycle accident and was taken to University Hospital, where lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful. Despite the grief that followed, Anna Stubbe acknowledged the approach by UW Organ and Tissue Donation specialists, which led to honoring Erich’s wish to be a donor.

Donation testing processes, including CT scans and a bronchoscopy, were carried out to ensure the viability of Erich’s organs for transplantation. Kayla Statz, organ procurement coordinator at UW Organ and Tissue Donation, explained the importance of these evaluations, saying, “This is critical work that determines how many lives can be touched by one donor.”

During this time, Statz provided updates to Stubbe’s family and helped create meaningful memories, such as watching a Packers game, remembering Erich’s love for football. Anna Stubbe highlighted the significance of this moment, noting, “It was important that we could watch one last Packers-Bears game with him.”

Stubbe’s choice to be a donor had a significant impact, as his organs went to recipients in need. Michael Anderson, executive director of UW Organ and Tissue Donation, highlighted Erich's legacy: “Every donor hero is different, and Erich’s story is one of profound strength, compassion and generosity.”

Anna Stubbe expressed hope that sharing Erich’s story would inspire others to become organ donors, noting, “This is not what any family expects, but it was what Erich wanted. We did it for him.”