Perth Style Icon Gabi Cross Devastated by Family Pet's Passing During US Festival Visit
Perth content creator and sportswear entrepreneur Gabi Cross is experiencing profound grief after the loss of a cherished four-legged family member while she was overseas attending the Coachella music festival in California. The influential fashion figure and co-founder of the brand Vang Athletica shared the tragic news of her dachshund Yoda's death with her substantial social media following, expressing deep sorrow and heartbreak.
Heartfelt Social Media Tribute to a Beloved Companion
Cross, who boasts over 515,000 Instagram followers, posted a moving tribute to Yoda, describing the pet as her soulmate and lamenting the inability to say a final goodbye in person. "Yoda, I will miss you every second of every day for the rest of my life," she wrote, accompanying the message with nostalgic photos capturing precious moments from their twelve years together. The images showcased beach outings, her wedding day, and Yoda's early puppyhood, painting a picture of a deeply bonded relationship.
"My heart is broken, my soulmate. Thank you for the most special 12 years. I wish we had longer together," Cross continued in her emotional post. She specifically expressed regret about not being present during Yoda's final moments, as she was at Coachella with her husband Chad. "I'm sorry I didn't get to hold you one last time, but I will see you in my dreams every night, my princess," she added, highlighting the pain of separation during such a critical time.
Outpouring of Support from Influencer Community
The comments section of Cross's post quickly filled with condolences from fellow influencers and friends, demonstrating the widespread support within her network. Notable figures included:
- Model Olivia Molly Rogers, who responded with sad and heartbroken emojis.
- Perth influencer Em Davies, who wrote: "Love you darling ?? rip angel."
- Actor Christina Kirkman, who said: "I'm so sorry for your loss?❤️? sending you all the love & thinking of you extra."
- UK influencer and fellow dachshund owner Rebecca Jackson, who commented: "Aw angel this is heartbreaking ? sending so much love."
- Los Angeles creative Mel Walker, who offered: "Sending you the most love."
Background on Cross's Personal and Professional Life
Gabi Cross and her husband Chad, who co-founded Vang Athletica, have a notable personal history that adds context to this loss. The couple first met at a festival on Rottnest Island a decade ago and later celebrated their union with a European-inspired wedding in the Swan Valley in 2025. Yoda, the beloved black sausage dog, is survived by the couple's second dachshund, Pippin, who remains part of their family.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by public figures balancing personal tragedies with professional commitments, as Cross's attendance at Coachella—a major event in the influencer calendar—coincided with this deeply personal loss. The story resonates with pet owners worldwide, highlighting the universal pain of losing a furry companion and the unique difficulties when distance prevents a final farewell.
