Alex Pashley, Jeff Keenan, and Jason Remple: Obituary and Death – Remembering the Life and Legacy of Three Iconic Figures in Snowboarding and Outdoor Adventure Following the Avalanche Tragedy in the Kootenay Mountains, British Columbia

It is with immense sorrow and heavy hearts that we report the untimely and devastating deaths of three beloved individuals from the snowboarding and outdoor adventure communities—Alex Pashley, Jeff Keenan, and Jason Remple. The three outdoor sports icons tragically lost their lives in an avalanche that occurred on March 24, 2025, in the remote and picturesque Kootenay Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. The tragic incident has left not only their families and loved ones in deep grief but also a profound impact on the wider snowboarding and skiing community, as these men were more than just athletes and business figures—they were pioneers, mentors, and inspirations to many.

The Avalanche Tragedy: A Devastating Loss

On that fateful day, the group of four men, all highly skilled in their respective fields of snowboarding and skiing, were heli-skiing in the Clute Creek Watershed—an area renowned for its challenging and picturesque backcountry terrain. They were exploring one of the most revered mountain ranges in the world, known for its epic powder runs and rugged wilderness. It was a perfect setting for adventure, but unfortunately, nature’s force would strike at 12:30 p.m. in the form of an avalanche. Despite early warnings from the pilot about unstable snow conditions and the “High” avalanche danger rating due to rising temperatures and the intense sun that had been weakening the snowpack, the avalanche overtook the group.

In the aftermath of the avalanche, Alex Pashley, Jeff Keenan, and Jason Remple were tragically lost, while the fourth member of the group—a skier—was critically injured but ultimately survived the harrowing ordeal. The survivors’ account revealed the sheer scale of the avalanche and the devastation it left in its wake, as well as the desperate search efforts that followed. The snow sports community rallied around the survivors, and many came together to honor the lives of those who perished, but the overwhelming sadness and shock were felt globally by all who had admired the work and passion of Pashley, Keenan, and Remple. The mountains that had once brought them joy had now claimed their lives.

The tragic incident has brought to light the harsh realities of snow sports, particularly in backcountry areas, where the unpredictability of avalanches can create deadly conditions even for the most seasoned and experienced adventurers. Despite the warning and knowledge of the conditions, the avalanche caught the group off guard, ultimately leading to a loss that will never be forgotten.

Remembering Jeff Keenan: The Snowboarding Icon

Jeff Keenan, aged 44, was not only a beloved figure in snowboarding, but a revolutionary force who helped shape the sport into what it is today. Born in Whistler, British Columbia, Keenan grew up in one of the most iconic snowboarding destinations in the world, and it was here that his passion for the sport blossomed. From an early age, he was drawn to the challenge and exhilaration of snowboarding, quickly mastering the tricks, techniques, and skills that would make him a trailblazer.

Keenan’s legacy, however, extends far beyond his time on the slopes. As a co-founder of the renowned snowboarding brand Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards, Jeff helped bring new creativity and fresh perspectives to the snowboarding world. The brand became a symbol of innovation and self-expression, capturing the attention and admiration of snowboarders from around the world. The success of Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards was not simply due to product quality but because it embodied Keenan’s ethos—passion, community, and progress.

Keenan’s deep involvement in the snowboarding community extended to his work as a mentor and role model. He was well-regarded for his commitment to pushing the limits of the sport, and for his unwavering dedication to fostering a sense of camaraderie among snowboarders. His adventurous spirit was contagious, and his work ethic inspired others to take their skills to new heights. Whether he was riding or innovating with the brand, Keenan always encouraged his peers to approach snowboarding with a sense of adventure and creativity.

Sadly, Jeff Keenan’s life was cut short far too soon, but his impact on snowboarding is immeasurable. His legacy will be celebrated for years to come by those who admired him as a rider, a creator, and a friend.

Alex Pashley: A Master Photographer and Marketer Who Captured the Spirit of Snowboarding

Alex Pashley, aged 45, was another irreplaceable figure in the world of snowboarding and outdoor adventure. Originally from Idaho, Pashley was renowned for his extraordinary talent as a photographer and his influential role in the snow sports marketing industry. His breathtaking images captured the heart and soul of snowboarding, encapsulating the essence of mountain adventures in a way that no one else could. His work allowed snowboarding to come alive, not just as a sport but as a lifestyle—a lifestyle that celebrated freedom, exploration, and connection with nature.

As the Global Sports Marketing Manager for The North Face, Pashley was able to combine his love for outdoor adventure with his professional expertise. His creative vision and leadership in snow sports marketing were instrumental in shaping the branding and image of some of the most respected companies in the industry. In addition to his work with The North Face, Pashley also worked with a wide range of renowned brands including Salomon, Rossignol, Dragon Alliance, and Smartwool. His ability to capture the power and beauty of the outdoors through his lens made him a highly sought-after photographer, and his campaigns brought snow sports to a broader audience.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pashley was cherished by colleagues and friends for his warm, kind-hearted nature. He had a passion for life and adventure that was contagious. Those who knew him recall his adventurous spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to sharing the beauty of the mountains with the world. He had an uncanny ability to connect with people, both in his personal life and professional career, and was widely admired for his work ethic and creative genius. Whether behind the camera or working on marketing campaigns, Pashley was a vital part of the snow sports world.

His tragic passing in the avalanche is a profound loss not only to the photography and marketing worlds but also to the snow sports community as a whole. His incredible body of work will continue to inspire future generations of photographers, marketers, and snowboarders.

Jason Remple: The Backcountry Expert Who Changed Heli-Skiing in British Columbia

At the age of 53, Jason Remple had already lived a life full of adventure, leadership, and a deep love for skiing. As the founder of Stellar Heli Skiing, a company specializing in heli-skiing experiences in the rugged terrain of the Kootenay region, Remple had dedicated his life to providing safe and thrilling experiences for backcountry skiers. His business, which he co-founded with his wife in 2005, became a cornerstone of the heli-skiing industry in the region, and he earned a reputation as a highly skilled and trusted expert in backcountry skiing.

Jason Remple’s contribution to the world of snow sports went beyond business. He was widely recognized for his expertise in mountain safety, and his commitment to the well-being of his clients was unparalleled. He was often called upon to provide advice and insights on safe skiing practices in challenging backcountry conditions. Through Stellar Heli Skiing, Remple worked tirelessly to share his passion for skiing with others, while also ensuring they had the knowledge and equipment to safely navigate the harsh environment of the mountains.

Despite the dangerous conditions of the backcountry, Remple had built a company founded on safety, education, and a deep respect for the wilderness. His clients and colleagues alike admired his calm and collected demeanor, his leadership, and his unwavering focus on ensuring the safety of everyone involved in a heli-skiing adventure.

In the wake of his tragic passing, those who knew him—both personally and professionally—will always remember his remarkable contributions to the sport and the profound impact he had on the heli-skiing community. Remple’s legacy will live on through the stories of those who were fortunate enough to ski with him, and through the lasting influence of his company.

A Community United in Grief and Remembrance

The untimely deaths of Alex Pashley, Jeff Keenan, and Jason Remple have left an indelible mark on the snowboarding, skiing, and outdoor adventure communities. Their work, their passion, and their drive to push the boundaries of what was possible on the slopes will never be forgotten. These men were not just athletes—they were educators, innovators, and mentors, who helped shape and define the world of snow sports for countless individuals.

As the news of their deaths reverberates through the outdoor sports community, tributes and remembrances pour in from across the globe. Snowboarders, skiers, photographers, marketers, and outdoor enthusiasts—all of whom were touched by the work of Pashley, Keenan, and Remple—come together to mourn, share their stories, and honor the memory of these incredible individuals. The legacy they leave behind will continue to inspire adventurers for generations to come, as they chase the same thrills, push the same limits, and celebrate the spirit of outdoor exploration that Pashley, Keenan, and Remple so passionately embodied.

May they rest in peace, and may their families and loved ones find comfort in knowing that the world will forever remember their contributions to the world of snowboarding, skiing, and the mountains they loved so dearly.