What started as a cheerful spring break trip between a grandson and his cherished grandfather ended in tragedy and months of painful uncertainty.
The body of 20-year-old Francesco Di Filippo, a Chicago college student who vanished in early April, was recovered on Monday, June 30, 2025, near Newport Beach in Wisconsin. His discovery closed a three-month search that left his family and community heartbroken.
Lake Delton Police reported that emergency crews were dispatched around 2:13 p.m. after someone saw a body floating in the water. Authorities confirmed it was Francesco based on clothing and later formal identification.
Francesco disappeared on April 3, 2025, after a boat he was on capsized in the Wisconsin River close to the Kilbourn Dam. He had been enjoying his spring break with his grandfather, Luis F. Di Filippo.
During the accident, Francesco, his grandfather Luis, and a friend, Giovanni Mills, were thrown into the water. Giovanni survived and swam to safety, while Luis’s body was found the following day. Francesco remained missing — until now.
His mother, Lina Di Filippo-Schultz, held onto hope throughout the ordeal. In an interview with Fox32Chicago News, she described her son as selfless and family-oriented. “He never said no. Family always came first. Life will never be the same without him,” she shared.
Francesco, a second-year student at Wright College, was remembered as kind, devoted to loved ones, and known for his radiant smile. An obituary from Cumberland Chapels described him as someone who touched everyone he met.
The Wisconsin Dells Police Department expressed deep condolences to his family and thanked everyone involved in the lengthy search efforts.
Search operations were challenging due to dangerous water conditions. On April 4, police issued warnings about the river’s swift currents and unpredictable flow, which made recovery efforts risky and complicated. Despite these dangers, crews continued looking for weeks.
As days turned into weeks, Francesco’s mother begged for his return. In a heartbreaking interview with WMTV15 News, she said, “Not only did the waters take my baby away from me but now at least give him back. Just one last time [sic].” His father, Brian Schultz, described the painful waiting as “brutal.”
Francesco’s girlfriend, Shay Zuelke, also shared her anguish during the same interview, saying, “Knowing what they went through and that Frank is still down there… I need my Frank back.”
A GoFundMe campaign started by a family friend is still active, raising funds to support funeral expenses and help the family cope with ongoing costs. The fundraiser highlights the emotional and financial burden the tragedy has placed on the Di Filippo-Schultz family.
Luis, 75, was an experienced boater who had been married to his wife, Sandra, for 48 years. He had hoped to make unforgettable memories with his grandchildren on this trip. Speaking to Fox32Chicago News, Lina said of her father, “I don’t think he knew the water levels were so high.”
Luis’s body was recovered on April 5, 2025. At that time, officials warned boaters about the risks of high, fast-moving water as warm weather tempted people back to the river. They urged everyone to wear life jackets, secure anchors properly, and be vigilant of rapidly changing conditions.
With Francesco now finally brought home, his family is left to mourn and celebrate a young life filled with love, potential, and a powerful connection to a grandfather who loved him deeply.