Brent was my ski idol and a good friend.
Not only was he the most positive energy force in the valley, always smiling, laughing and living large, he was also an amazing father and husband.
He ripped lines and hucked drops that I can only dream of.
He always inspired me to turn it up a notch, and push my own envelope.
I always looked forward to our tours together. He always had some new route that he carefully planned and studied and wanted to hit.
Despite his thrill seeking nature, he was an ideal backcountry companion. He respected the mountains and the snowpack, and was prepared to alter plans and routes when conditions weren't right.
Insomnia was a drop that he has done many times before, and unfortunately something went wrong this time. I wish he hadn't done it, but then he wouldn't have been true to himself. Newt was just being Newt, and that is what we all loved about him.
The great tragedy here are the survivors. Not only did he leave his mark on hundreds, if not thousands of skiers, he left behind a great and loving family.
Brent's lovely wife Sheryl now has the burden of raising their two beautiful sons, one two and a half years old and the other two months.
In that regard, there will be a fundraiser at the Moose on Saturday. Anything you can donate will be appreciated. Newt was a skier and a fireman and not a banker, so we are really trying to take care of his two boys, now that he cannot be there for them.
[EDIT - fundraiser at Moose was Sunday, and was a great success, but we still need more!! visit www.BrentNewtonFamilyFoundation.com for more info or check the TGR summit charity thread where you can send paypal donations to fred@tetongravity.com ]
Even if you did not know him personally, you may remember that happy laughing smile from the tramdock or his uniquely original "Tweakers" sunglasses.
You may remember him making gondola laps with his oldest son in his backpack.
You may remember his outstanding skiing, pushing the limits in bounds and in the backcountry.
Remember him fondly.
Love life, live large, and ski large in his memory and in his honor.
He would want it that way.
Rest in Peace, brother Newt, you have left a huge hole in my heart, but I am all the richer for having known you.