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Bija Sass Obituary
Born on April 7, 1973, Bija grew up in Montclair, NJ, graduating from Montclair High School in 1991. She attended Bowdoin College, double majoring in Psychology and French, spending a year abroad in France before graduating in 1995.
After graduating from college, her lifelong journey of adventure continued as a thru-hiker on the Appalachian Trail where she hiked from south to north. Bija joined the Peace Corps, where she assisted indigenous people in Papua New Guinea establish a sustainable tourism lodge. Her love of nature and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others drove her to lead outdoor programs for at-risk youth in Utah, and to teach in an early education program in Seattle, Washington.
In 2002, Bija spent her first season at McMurdo station in Antarctica. She would eventually spend 16 seasons on the "Ice" over a span of 20 years doing everything that needed doing, but mostly keeping people safe. At the time of her death, she was a Field Supervisor helping researchers and crew stay safe while enabling important research. All along the way Bija built a beautiful life and a community and home on the Ice.
Bija's commitment to making a positive impact on the world led her to join Doctors Without Borders, where she worked in the Democratic Republic of Congo, providing medical care and aid to those in need. Her work with this organization and time spent volunteering in Ladakh, Nepal and Christchurch, New Zealand after the 2011 earthquake exemplified her commitment to social justice and her deep compassion for others.
Bija maintained a deep love and passion for the outdoors and in her "free" time could be found rock climbing, kayaking in the ocean, or running on a trail.
Throughout her life, Bija's fierce determination and adventurous spirit shone brightly, even in the face of adversity. She battled ovarian cancer with courage and grace, and her strength and resilience inspired all who knew her. Bija is survived by her parents, Lenny and Kathy Sass, her brother Ugyen Sass, sister-in-law Meghan Sass, nieces Vivian and Rosie, sister Chodon Sass, brother-in-law Nate Hyun, nephew Forrest, and niece Pearl.
Bija's legacy will live on through the many lives she touched and the causes she championed. In lieu of flowers, her family suggests that donations be made to a cause that is meaningful to you or to some of Bija's favorite organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, Stanford Cancer Institute, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, ovarian cancer research, and women's health organizations. Bija will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished forever.
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9 Entries
Jay
July 6, 2025
This might be a little bizarre, but I was watching a PBS documentary video about Antarctic food and specifically about the McMurdo station. She was one of the people they spoke briefly with in the video. She had such a genuine personality I randomly decided to Google her name, since I thought it was such a unique name. Only to find that she passed away not that long ago. I also found out she grew up in NJ, which is where I'm from. I hope that she's found peace, and I give my condolences to her loved ones.
Anthony
July 27, 2023
I worked in McMurdo for two seasons between 2011 and 2013.
I don´t remember if I ever even spoke with Bija, but I definitely remember her in the community and, as a loved one already mentioned, her boundless energy. The word that comes to mind is zoey. If someone must go so early, those that are able to amass so much grace and courage in doing so leave all of us a treasure map and a realistic hope of doing something similar for ourselves when the time comes.
Thank you Bija
Drew Christ
April 13, 2023
I'm incredibly sorry for your loss. I owe Bija my life. She coordinated a rescue operation in Antarctica that saved two scientists and me from an extremely dangerous situation. I spoke with Bija over the radio for hours, and her calm demeanor, kindness, and focus where a godsend in an uncertain, stressful situation. Although I did not know Bija well, I just want to express how indebted I am to her. Her ability to show grace to those facing challenges is a quality we should all aspire to have.
Viviane (Brigouleix) Haughery
April 10, 2023
So sorry for your loss. I went to GMWS as well, and was in Ugyen´s class. My Brother Philippe was in Bija´s class. My childhood memories of her was that she was so pretty, full of energy and joy.
What a wonderful adventurous woman she grew up to be in giving of herself to serve and help others! She has left a permanent mark in the hearts of many.
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Laura Selby
April 8, 2023
I was fortunate to teach with Bija for a year before she started her work in Antarctica. We partnered well and she brought new ideas to our teaching, and compassion and love. I was a better educator as a result and the children were lucky to have been with her
Mätzu Bloechlinger
April 2, 2023
I have seen a sign in Heaven this evening in Bern Switzerland,
Also a sign of the Family Sass!
I remember to Bija, her mother is my sister, and in memory also my son Louis
Sherri Lewis
March 16, 2023
Bija brought immeasurable joy and happiness to everyone around her. She laughed and loved with her whole heart and you couldn't help but be swept up in her big, generous spirit. I will forever treasure the many days we shared climbing the mossy cliffs of the Pacific Northwest or in the expansive canyons of Red Rock in Nevada. She was the best friend and climbing partner and human being anyone could ever ask for, and I am deeply grateful for her and for the chance to have been part of her short time on this planet. B, you truly left us and the earth all the better for your having been here, but it won't ever be the same without you. Rest in peace, dearest friend.
Glenn Blumhorst
March 15, 2023
On behalf of the Peace Corps community, our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Sass. Her lifetime of service to others truly embodied Peace Corps ideals and undoubtedly she made a positive impact on many people around the world in her life journey.
The Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation honors all who have served our country and world through the Peace Corps.
Ariana Falerni
March 14, 2023
So very sad to hear of Bija´s passing. I haven´t seen her in a long time but she was such a huge part of my childhood. Not surprised at all she grew into a companionate and adventurous soul who left her mark on so many
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