Three people lost their lives after a small plane crashed into the Platte River in Nebraska on the night of 19 April.
All three people on board were found dead at the scene. The victims are 43-year-old Daniel Williams from Moundridge, Kansas; 50-year-old Jeff Bittinger; and 48-year-old Randy Amrein, both from Fremont, Nebraska.
One of the victims, Randy Amrein, was a dedicated hockey dad and a beloved member of the Fremont hockey family.
The Fremont Ice Association and the local hockey community send their hearts out to his son, wife Dakota, his loved ones, and all those affected by this tragedy.
At the same time, Randy’s son, Dakota Amrein, is a talented young hockey player who has consistently performed throughout his career with the Fremont Tigers and the Omaha Hockey Club.
Over the 2023–2024 and 2024–2025 seasons, he played 55 games, recording 26 goals and 21 assists for a combined 47 points.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Randy Amrein
Randy often shared photos of himself and his son, Dakota, on social media, showing their close bond. Now, after losing his dad, Dakota is heartbroken.
Dakota Amrein expressed deep gratitude to everyone for their support, saying it meant more to him than words could explain.
He shared how his father was a well-loved part of the Fremont community, bringing energy and joy to everything he was involved in.
Dakota hopes to carry on his dad’s legacy by bringing light to others just as his father did.
His message ended with a heartfelt tribute, asking his dad to shine bright from above.
Thank u guys so much. You don’t know how much this means to me. God bless everyone. My father was a big part of Fremont and was the life of every little thing he went to. I hope I can follow my dad’s footsteps and light up everyone’s day. Shine bright in the sky for me Dad.
Dakota Amrein
Similarly, Aunt Wendy Amrein described her brother, Randy, as every party’s favorite bag toss player.
While Randy was loved by many, Wendy said it was clear who he loved the most- his son, Dakota. Their bond was firm and unforgettable.
Wendy shared how she’ll always hold onto the good memories: growing up on the farm with their cousins Craig, Clint, and Cory, going to Chiefs games, sharing laughs, and enjoying each other’s company.
She ended her message with love, saying she misses him more every day and will never forget the good times.
As she put it, they’ll continue raising a toast in his honor, just as he wanted.
Further, Libby, Randy Amrein’s close friend, shared a heartfelt message about how their community lost two dear friends in the tragic plane crash.
Randy spent his last full day on Earth at a friend’s home, laughing, joking, and being the best dad to his son, Dakota.
Randy and Dakota worked together all day, and the friend expressed gratitude for that time together.
The friend mentioned that Randy was always proud of Dakota and wanted the best for him.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Ryan’s wife, Cynthia, studied Dental Hygiene at Wichita State University.
- During the 2016-2017 season, Dakota competed at the Wahoo Champion of Champions event, facing K. Maly from Cavalry Wrestling. He fought hard but lost the match with a score of 10-4.
- Dakota’s birthday falls on December 28.
