Just days after her dream wedding to Jeremy Scheuch, American Pickers star Danielle Colby faced a heartbreaking loss, saying goodbye to the man she fondly called the “real-life Santa Claus.”

On February 15, 2024, fans celebrated with Colby as she shared glimpses of her wedding in Puerto Rico. Wearing a stunning powder-blue gown, the 49-year-old married photographer Jeremy Scheuch in a charming open-air ceremony, surrounded by loved ones. Yet, amid the joy, the absence of Jeremy’s father, “Papa John,” who was battling cancer, cast a shadow.

In a heartfelt post, Colby wrote, “Our hearts are full, but we deeply missed Jeremy’s family, staying with his dad as he fought cancer.” Just days later, on February 19, the couple rushed to Kansas City to be with Papa John, who passed away that day at 70 after years of bringing joy as Santa Claus.

Colby shared an emotional tribute, honoring John’s lifelong advocacy for vulnerable children and recalling the “unexplainable magic” he brought to their wedding, even from afar. Fans offered heartfelt condolences, reminding Colby that Papa John’s spirit would always be with them. Despite the pain, Colby’s love and gratitude for her new family shine through in every memory.