Obituary: Remembering Austin William Zabilowicz, 31 — A Beloved Son, Friend, and Community Member Lost Too Soon
JACKSON, WYOMING — The tight-knit town of Jackson is mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of its own, 31-year-old Austin William Zabilowicz, who passed away on June 23, 2025, after succumbing to injuries sustained in a devastating motorcycle accident that occurred in late May. Austin’s untimely passing has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the greater Jackson community, where he was known for his adventurous spirit, compassionate heart, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved.
Austin had been fighting courageously for weeks at a regional trauma center following the accident, which happened during a routine ride on a scenic stretch of highway just outside of town. According to authorities, the accident involved a single vehicle — Austin’s motorcycle — and is believed to have been caused by a combination of weather conditions and a sudden loss of control on a sharp curve. No other vehicles were involved, and he was airlifted from the scene by emergency medical responders. Despite multiple surgeries and the best efforts of medical teams, Austin ultimately succumbed to his injuries, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Born on November 5, 1993, Austin grew up in Jackson, where he developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounded him. From a young age, he was known as a curious, energetic child who loved the outdoors, engines, and adventure. He attended Jackson Hole High School and later pursued vocational training in mechanical engineering, combining his lifelong passion for motorcycles and machines with a sharp intellect and work ethic that impressed all who knew him.
Austin worked as a skilled mechanic and technician at a local auto shop, where he earned a reputation for his precision, honesty, and genuine care for every customer who came through the door. He was the kind of person who never hesitated to stay late to help a neighbor in need or fix a friend’s car for free just to make their week a little easier.
Outside of work, Austin’s passions were wide-ranging. He was an avid motorcyclist, snowboarder, and hiker — someone who found solace and freedom in the mountains and along winding back roads. Friends say he was always up for an adventure and found joy in life’s simplest pleasures: a crackling fire, a starry sky, or a long ride with no destination in mind.
Above all else, Austin was known for his deep sense of loyalty and kindness. He was a son who called his parents just to say he loved them. A friend who would drop everything to show up for someone in need. A brother who protected and uplifted his siblings. He had a quiet strength, a sharp sense of humor, and a smile that could light up a room.
The news of Austin’s passing has deeply affected the community. In Jackson, where everyone seems to know everyone, Austin was not just another name — he was family. A candlelight vigil held in his honor drew hundreds of residents, all coming together to grieve, share memories, and find strength in unity. Friends shared stories of spontaneous road trips, late-night heart-to-hearts, and countless moments that reflected Austin’s generous and joyful spirit.
“Austin was the guy you could count on,” one longtime friend said during the vigil. “He had this quiet way of making you feel seen. No judgment, no ego — just a good soul with a big heart.”
Austin is survived by his parents, William and Cheryl Zabilowicz of Jackson; his younger sister, Marissa Zabilowicz; his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and a wide circle of close friends who considered him family. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Rocky, who was often seen riding alongside him on hiking trails or waiting patiently outside the shop while Austin worked.
A celebration of Austin’s life will be held on Saturday, June 29, at 2:00 p.m. at the Jackson Community Center, followed by a motorcycle procession through some of Austin’s favorite scenic routes — a final ride in honor of a man who lived fully and rode freely.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Teton County Search and Rescue or a local motorcycle safety initiative in Austin’s memory. These causes reflect his passions and the community he so dearly loved.
As Jackson continues to mourn, Austin William Zabilowicz will be remembered not for the tragedy of his passing, but for the fullness of his life — for the laughter he brought, the love he gave, and the legacy he leaves behind in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
May he ride in eternal peace, under open skies, with the wind at his back.