champion hillclimber david shepherd killed in avalanche
Amsnow
On January 17, 2001, four-time world champion hillclimber, David Shepherd, 36, was killed in an avalanche while snowmobiling in Jackson, Montana.
The following note was submitted by his friend, Tammy Jordan.
David Shepherd was killed doing one of the things he loved best, snowmobiling. He was taken in an avalanche, 36 years old with a beautiful wife, two children and another on the way. He had retired last year after the 2000 Jackson Hole, Wyoming World Championship Hillclimb and was spending quality time with his family. He will be sorely missed.
David was well known on the snowmobile circuit as one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. He had two loves, his family and snowmobiling. To the rest of us, David was a good friend. He was someone who you could count on to be there if you needed anything.
I have been talking to several people around town today and have listened to the stories and memories of David. One recalls that just a few weekends ago, he was snowmobiling with his family and friends. He was so happy to be watching his son, Toby, riding a snowmobile "like his dad." Another laughs about how he was always teasing his wife, Natalie, about how they were going to have twelve children, but somehow they were going to keep them babies. And there was the retirement party at the Lion's Den Supper Club that was put on by his friends and family. Many recall the fear on the guests' faces when David's MOD sled was started right there in the bar.
David had a zest for life, a passion for adventure. He was always eager to go riding with almost anyone who was interested. He had been riding since he was a child, and he will probably ride every day from now on in a place that we can only dream of.
David will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He lived for his family; he died for his passion. We are all better for having known him, and he will be in our thoughts always.
May David's death not be in vain. May we all realize that we are not invincible and that if this could happen to a champion like him, it could happen to any one of us. Please be careful.