Remembering Rigo: A Life Full of Adventure

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of my little brother, Rigo, who left this earth on Thursday, March 6th at the young age of 26. Just a few days before his 27th birthday.

Those of us who were blessed enough to know my little brother knew that he was an adventurer at heart, always seeking out new experiences and embracing life with a fearless spirit. His love for nature, exploration and his zest for life inspired everyone around him.

Rigo moved back home to California almost three years ago to pursue his love for being out in nature, but above all, to pursue his love for skiing. As his big sister who also loves nature almost as much as he did, I was a little bit jealous seeing him living out an adventurous life that I also craved, but was too scared to go after. But mostly, I was proud. Proud that he had the courage to put his happiness first. We take comfort in knowing that these last few years of his life he was the happiest he had ever been.

Mammoth was always such a special place to him. This ski season he is sitting at the top of the Mammoth leaderboard with 96 days of skiing on the mountain he loved most. He was so excited to get to 100 days by his birthday. I was fortunate enough to visit him this past summer and he was able to show me all of his favorite spots, each one more beautiful than the last. His favorite sunset spot, Crystal Crag, the disc golf course at shady rest, his favorite lake to swim in in Yosemite. These are just a few.

As his Mammoth family said: “He was a genuine light for so many people in the community. A no bullshit kind of dude with the biggest heart and the craziest commitment to the things he loved. His energy was contagious, you seriously couldn’t go ski with him without getting super stoked. He was a one of a kind dude for sure”.

Rigo will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

All funds raised will be used to help cover any immediate expenses related to his unexpected passing. Eventually we will make further plans to honor his beautiful life. Thank you in advance for any donation.