Snowflakes

Dear Kaya, 

When I woke up this morning the snow was lightly falling, as it does often this time of year in the Wasatch. Watching the snowflakes fall from the sky got me thinking of the life and memory of your wonderful Dad. A snowflake is unique, each holding its own significant worth; they are gracefully crafted and effortlessly beautiful; they make the world sparkle and are ultimately irreplaceable.

2009 New Years XC Ski, Beaver Creek Trail Uinta Mountains

I cannot think of a better way to describe the man your Dad was. He was truly unique and completely irreplaceable. His positive outlook, goofy nature and overwhelming glow overtook every room he entered. He was an attentive listener, genuinely interested in every detail of your life, no matter what the topic. He had a way of making sure that when he left your presents that you’d feel better about yourself, like somehow he'd secretly injected endorphins into your veins. When he left our presents last Thursday, his spirit was still active in the air, slowly finding its final resting place in each person that he has ever known.

Easter 2010 - Beaver Dam Mountains,  Utah 

A few of us gathered to grieve and talk about your dad that night. All of us were, and still are, devastated by this accident. There is no way of explaining why this had to happen, but try to find peace in the fact that your Dad was one of those guys who did not take life for granted. He lived every moment to its fullest, making every experience a positive one. There is no doubt that we are all better people for having had the chance to know him.

His excitable motivation allowed him to live 100 lives in his short 34, while his dedicated spirit allowed him to master just about everything he tried along the way. He was an expectational snow scientist, skier, climber, teacher and baker but most of all he was an exceptional friend to all, father to you and partner for your mom.

It breaks my heart that the memories of your dad will be few. Please be confident that those 6 short years that you had him were the best years of his life! He loved you dearly. Your birth changed him and forced him to grow-up fast, but he took on his new role as your Dad, devoting his life to you.

As I look back at the last 9 years that I knew him, I cannot think of a memory or find a picture of him with a serious face, let alone a serious stance.

Sawtooth Music Festival, Stanley ID, July 2010

Legs in the air, goofy look on his face, spirit in his eyes. 

2009 New Years XC Ski, Beaver Creek Trail Uinta Mountains

 I will miss the energy that he contributed to my life and yours, I will miss running into him skiing with you, I will miss the glow in his eyes as he watched you find easter eggs, and although he will miss so many events in your life from now forward, please know that your extended family is large and your support is deep. You are 6 years old right now and have no real idea how your life has just changed, but as you read this many years into the future I hope you can truly understand that you are the legacy of a wonderful man.

Easter 2010 - Beaver Dam Mountains,  Utah 

So as the snow flies throughout your life, remember your Dad; take a moment to look for the most unique, gracefully crafted, sparkling snowflake that you can find and know that your Dad is always with you.

With Love,

Jess Kirby