With profound sadness, family, friends, and members of the Superior community are mourning the tragic loss of Martha Lippai, 62, of Superior, and Devern Bender, 36, of Barron, Wisconsin, whose lives ended following a heartbreaking crash Tuesday morning, July 7, 2026, in the Town of Superior.
The sudden loss of Martha and Devern has left loved ones devastated as they grieve two lives taken far too soon. Their passing has brought deep sorrow to their families, friends, and everyone who knew them. During this difficult time, those closest to them are holding on to the memories they created and the impact they had on the people around them.
According to authorities, the Douglas County 911 center received a report of a crash at approximately 7:54 a.m. on County Highway A, about one-quarter mile south of Larson Road. Officials said Martha was having a wooden storage shed delivered to her property by Devern when the tragic incident occurred.
Authorities said both Martha and Devern were standing near the rear of a flatbed semi-truck and trailer parked along northbound CTH A when a northbound Honda Pilot struck them before colliding with the rear of the trailer. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Honda Pilot was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The crash remains under investigation by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Medical Examiner’s Office, and Wisconsin State Patrol.
Beyond the heartbreaking circumstances of their deaths, Martha and Devern will be remembered for the lives they lived and the connections they shared with family, friends, and their communities. Their memories will continue to be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing them.
The loss of two loved ones in such a sudden tragedy is a pain that words cannot fully express. As their families navigate this difficult journey, they are surrounded by support, compassion, and condolences from those who stand beside them.
Though their lives ended far too soon, the memory of Martha Lippai and Devern Bender will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved them. May Martha and Devern rest in eternal peace, and may their families find comfort, strength, and healing in the days ahead.