Tragedy on the River: Body of 20-Year-Old Francesco Di Filippo Recovered Months After Boating Accident in Wisconsin

WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. — July 2, 2025

A heartbreaking search has come to a close after the body of Francesco Di Filippo, a 20-year-old college student from Chicago, was discovered near Newport Beach, Wisconsin on Monday, June 30. His recovery ends a nearly three-month-long effort to locate him following a tragic boating accident in early April.

Authorities responded to a call just after 2:00 p.m. Monday reporting a body seen floating in the water. The clothing matched what Francesco was last seen wearing, and officials later confirmed his identity through additional means. His remains were found just miles downstream from where the accident occurred on the Wisconsin River, near the Kilbourn Dam.

Spring Break Turns to Tragedy

Francesco had traveled to Wisconsin to spend spring break with his grandfather, Luis F. Di Filippo, 75, a longtime boating enthusiast. On April 3, the two were on a small boat along with a family friend, Giovanni Mills, when the vessel capsized in fast-moving waters.

Giovanni was able to swim to safety. Luis’s body was recovered the next day. Francesco, however, was swept away and presumed drowned. Despite massive search efforts, no trace of him was found—until now.

The discovery of his body ends a long period of anguish for his family, who had remained hopeful throughout the ordeal.

“Family always came first for Francesco. Life will never be the same without him,” his mother said in a statement released to friends and relatives following the confirmation of his identity.

A Life of Promise Cut Short

Francesco Di Filippo was a second-year student at Wright College, known for his kind heart, dedication to family, and vibrant personality. Friends describe him as someone who always showed up with a smile and was willing to help anyone in need.

His girlfriend, who had spoken during the search, described the emotional toll of waiting in the dark for weeks with no answers.

“I just needed him back. Not knowing where he was—it tore all of us apart.”

Francesco had dreams of working in health or public service and was passionate about community engagement. His professors recall a young man who showed exceptional compassion and drive.

Challenges in Recovery

Following the accident, search crews faced relentless obstacles. Rapid currents, cold water temperatures, and shifting debris complicated the mission. Crews used boats, sonar, underwater cameras, drones, and trained divers in an effort to bring Francesco home.

Local and state agencies, joined by civilian volunteers, carried out searches along miles of shoreline in the weeks after the capsizing. While hope dwindled as time went on, the Di Filippo family never gave up.

In a written message shared through family contacts, they expressed gratitude to all who aided in the search and asked for continued prayers as they prepare to say goodbye.

Remembering a Beloved Grandfather

Francesco’s grandfather, Luis Di Filippo, was a retired contractor, father of three, and grandfather of five. He had been married to his wife, Sandra, for 48 years. The spring break visit was meant to be a cherished bonding experience—one that ended in unimaginable tragedy.

“He just wanted to make special memories with his grandsons,” the family shared.

Photos of Luis and Francesco taken just days before the accident have become symbols of their loving relationship. One of the images—now featured on a family-led GoFundMe page—shows the two smiling side by side at a lakeside pier.

A Final Farewell

Funeral services for both Francesco and Luis are being planned in Chicago, where the family resides. The Di Filippo-Schultz family is asking for privacy as they mourn, and a public memorial is expected to be announced in the coming days.

The fundraiser launched to support recovery efforts and funeral costs remains active, with donors leaving heartfelt messages of support alongside contributions.

“We never gave up hope. Now, we grieve and honor the beautiful life he lived,” said a family cousin in an online post.

Francesco Di Filippo (2005–2025): A loving son, devoted grandson, and bright young man remembered by all who knew him.