The Deadliest Catch community is mourning the loss of Gregory Colburn, a former crew member of the fishing vessel Wizard, who was honored with a special tribute during the July 17 episode of the Discovery Channel series.
Gregory, who worked aboard the Wizard from 2018 to 2022, was remembered as a dedicated fisherman, beloved family member, and valued member of the Bering Sea fishing community. According to his obituary, Gregory passed away on May 19, 2026, at the age of 32.
Deadliest Catch Honors Gregory Colburn
At the conclusion of the July 17 episode, Discovery Channel aired a tribute message honoring Gregory’s connection to the Wizard crew.
The tribute read:
“This episode is dedicated to Monte’s son Gregory Colburn, Wizard crewman 2018–2022.”
The message was accompanied by a video montage featuring Gregory during his time aboard the vessel, highlighting his years working on the reality series and his experiences fishing crab in the dangerous waters of the Bering Sea.
A Passion for the Bering Sea
Before entering the world of commercial fishing, Gregory grew up in Kings Beach, California, and worked in restaurants throughout the North Lake Tahoe area.
His obituary noted that he later discovered his passion for fishing crab in Alaska, where he found a career and lifestyle that became an important part of his identity.
Gregory was proud of his time at sea and his role on Deadliest Catch, where viewers saw the challenges, dedication, and teamwork required to operate a commercial crab fishing vessel.
Remembered for His Kind Heart
Outside of fishing, Gregory was known for his loyalty, generosity, and love for the people closest to him.
During the off-season, he lived in Chico, California, where he met his fiancée, Caitlin Nenadal. Loved ones said Gregory cherished his relationship with Caitlin and enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
His obituary described him as someone with a “heart of gold,” whose kindness and loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Friends and family remember Gregory as a person who brought warmth, laughter, and positivity into their lives. His caring nature and dedication to those around him made him deeply loved by his family and friends.
Survived by Family and Loved Ones
Gregory Colburn leaves behind his fiancée, Caitlin Nenadal, his daughter Scarlette, and his parents, Monte and Catherine Colburn.
He is also survived by his grandfather, Martin Urjevich, five siblings, extended family members, and many friends who will continue to honor his memory.
A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Legacy Within the Deadliest Catch Family
Gregory’s connection to Deadliest Catch extended beyond his own time aboard the Wizard. His uncle, Captain Keith Colburn, has been a prominent figure on the series since its third season in 2007.
Through his years as a Wizard crew member, Gregory became part of the show’s extended fishing family and gained recognition from viewers who followed the dangerous and demanding world of Bering Sea crab fishing.
Although his life ended far too soon, Gregory Colburn’s memory will continue through the family he loved, the friendships he built, and the moments he shared both on and off the water.
Gregory Colburn will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly honored by his family, friends, and the Deadliest Catch community.