The snowboarding world is in mourning following the tragic passing of Jeff Keenan, a beloved figure in the sport, who died in a skiing accident.
Three heli-skiers tragically lost their lives on Monday afternoon after a devastating avalanche in southeastern British Columbia. The incident occurred near the village of Kaslo, on the east side of Kootenay Lake, around 1 p.m. PT, according to the RCMP.
Authorities said that two groups of skiers had just finished their descent in the Clute Creek watershed and were waiting in a staging area below the tree line. A transport helicopter, en route to pick up the group, spotted the avalanche cascading down the slope and immediately sounded an alarm.
While one group managed to escape to safety, the second group of four skiers was caught in the deadly slide. Rescuers rushed to the scene but found three of the skiers had succumbed to their injuries:
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Jeff Keenan, 44, of Whistler, B.C. – A beloved figure in the snowboarding world and co-founder of Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards.
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Alex Pashley, 45, of Idaho – A well-respected industry professional with a background in brands like Salomon, Rossi, Dragon, and The North Face.
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A 53-year-old guide from Kaslo – A seasoned backcountry expert known in the local community.
A fourth skier, a 40-year-old man from Nelson, survived but suffered critical injuries and remains hospitalized.
Keenan, co-founder of Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards, was a passionate and influential force in snowboarding, inspiring countless riders with his talent and dedication. His loss has left a deep void in the community, with friends, colleagues, and fans sharing their grief and memories.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by King Snow, which paid tribute to Keenan’s kindness, passion, and profound impact:
“The kindest, most passionate, and empathetic soul there ever was. His contributions to snowboarding were immense, yet they paled in comparison to the impact and love he shared with his family and friends.
The news of Jeff Keenan’s passing feels too tragic to be true—the loss of our friend guts us. We’re beyond heartbroken for those closest to him.
We’ll do our best to follow your tracks and embody the qualities that created your heart of gold, Jeff, through kindness, dedication, love, and authenticity.
Love you, Jeff ❤️ Ride in paradise.”
The Air Time Podcast also expressed devastation, highlighting the loss of multiple key figures in the community due to a deadly avalanche:
“Heartbroken doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel to share the loss of three key pillars of our community.
Jeff Keenan 💔 – One of the most genuine, inspiring souls I’ve had the privilege of meeting. Jeff was f**ing special, and everyone who met him will agree … someone I will always aspire to be like, on and off the hill.
Alex Pashley 💔 – A cornerstone of this community, whose impact stretched across brands like Salomon, Rossi, Dragon, Slash, and Smartwool.
Additionally, we lost another legend, a 53-year-old guide from Kaslo.
My heart goes out to the community, the family, and friends during this incredibly painful time. Sending all my love and condolences. 💔 Tell your friends you love them.”*
Jeff Keenan was a co-founder of Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards, a brand built on the core values of independent snowboarding. His influence extended beyond his own riding—he helped shape the careers of many and fueled the passion of countless snowboarders worldwide.
He attended Capilano University and was living in Ucluelet, British Columbia, at the time of his passing.
As the snowboarding community processes this profound loss, tributes continue to pour in for a man remembered for his authenticity, generosity, and love for the sport.
Jeff Keenan’s spirit will live on in the mountains, in the tracks left by those he inspired, and in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.