Jaden Connor Fargen, age 24, of Bangor, passed away unexpectedly as the result of a tragic car accident on Feb. 1, 2025. A devoted big brother and son, fun-loving cousin, nephew and grandson, a loyal friend, daredevil, good listener and sports lover, Jaden lived a life full of unconditional love. He was known for his kind heart and for his big smile and infectious laughter that could be spotted across the room.

Jaden was born on Dec. 3, 2000 in Sauk Prairie to Ingrid (Harris) Herken and Chris Fargen. Growing up, Jaden loved sports and was a big fan of the Kansas Jayhawks men’s basketball team. He enjoyed playing sports with his buddies and was a student athlete for Bangor High School, where he participated in two state championships with his basketball and football teams. He set the school record for longest touchdown run of 97 yards his senior year. He was adventurous and was always jumping off cliffs, doing flips regardless of location.

He loved being part of a large family and he was happiest spending quality time with the people he loved.  There were many trips to Chicago with his “Auntie Birdie,” where she would spoil him with fun adventures in the city, and endless days spent out at the horse farm. Numerous weekends were spent enjoying water sports with family and friends at Lake Petenwell. Jaden loved playing backyard golf and watching any and every sporting event with his stepdad RJ. Jaden and his mom Ingrid (Mama Grid), loved to cook together, while listening to the latest music in the kitchen as they tried Gordon Ramsey’s  recipes. They often had long talks at the kitchen table together. He was a proud big brother and protected his siblings fiercely, and he was known by his family as “Jadey Boy.”

Jaden wore his heart on his sleeve. He adored children and animals. He would drop everything for the people he loved and was intentional with every conversation he had, whether it was a minute, or an hour. His hugs were healing and you would never leave without hearing, “I love you.”

Jaden lived his life the way he wanted. And because of that, he woke up happy every day, looking forward to the day ahead, filled with what he loved most: his friends and family. While we wish Jaden was still with us, his light will keep shining through all of the people who loved him.

Jaden is survived by his mom Ingrid, stepdad RJ Herken, siblings Sarah French, Tysen Herken, Emila Fargen, and Denna Fargen; grandparents Steven and Debra Harris, and Joseph and Patricia Fargen. He is preceded in death by his father Chris, grandparents Richard and Paula Herken, uncle Rick Herken, uncle Jimmy Clarke, cousin Jesse Parker, and aunt Amy Herken.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, Feb. 9 from 2-4 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4 p.m. at the Gathering Place (Coulee Region Cremation Group) 133 Mason Street Onalaska, Wi. A luncheon and celebration of life will follow after the funeral. In lieu of flowers, Jaden’s family is asking for donations to help cover funeral costs.

To view his tribute video click here

To livestream the service download the Zoom app and click HERE