The Deadliest Catch community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Gregory Colburn, the nephew of longtime captain Keith Colburn and the son of Monte Colburn. Gregory passed away on May 19, 2026, at the age of 32, leaving behind grieving family members, friends, and fellow fishermen who knew him both on and off the Bering Sea. His passing was publicly honored during a July 2026 episode of Deadliest Catch, which featured a touching tribute celebrating his life and contributions to the Wizard crew.
Gregory served as a crew member aboard the F/V Wizard from 2018 through 2022, working alongside his family in one of the world’s most demanding commercial fishing industries. During his time on the Discovery Channel series, viewers came to appreciate his dedication, resilience, and willingness to embrace the challenges of life at sea. Fishing was more than a career for Gregory—it was a passion that connected him to generations of the Colburn family.
According to his obituary, Gregory grew up in Kings Beach, California, before discovering his calling as a crab fisherman in Alaska. Away from the water, he lived in Chico, California, with his fiancée, Caitlin Nenadal, and cherished spending time with their daughter, Scarlette. Family members remembered him as a loyal, kind-hearted individual whose smile and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
At this time, Gregory Colburn’s cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. His family has requested privacy as they continue to grieve this profound loss. The heartfelt tribute on Deadliest Catch serves as a reminder of Gregory’s lasting impact on the Wizard crew and the close-knit fishing community. His memory will continue to live on through his family, friends, and the viewers who watched his journey at sea.