Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Todd Skinner Obituary
Todd Skinner, 47, was rappelling when he fell to his death Monday on Leaning Tower, Adrienne Freeman said. It was not immediately clear why he fell, but park officials planned to investigate.
Skinner, of Lander, Wyo., was celebrated for having climbed hundreds of rock faces from Yukon Territory to the Himalayas using a technique called free climbing, in which climbers use no artificial aids except for a rope to protect against falls.
He was the first to free climb a now-famous route on El Capitan, a granite monolith in Yosemite that rises 3,000 feet from the valley floor, according to his Web site.
Skinner, who wrote "Beyond the Summit," claimed to have set climbing records in 26 countries.
"Someone might have climbed a peak or a crag or a cliff before, but never the way Todd Skinner did," said fellow climber Hans Florine. "His mission was to be the first person to free climb all the biggest faces in the world."
Skinner and his party were climbing near Bridalveil Fall, one of the park's best-known waterfalls, Freeman said.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
50 Entries
Kevin " Canuck " Tennant
October 10, 2016
I was among the group in summer 1977 climb of Gannett Peak, same trip as above message from Tina Olney. Also got Mount Helen. Previous summer rafted on Green River with Todd and much of his family.Found ALL Skinners : Monte, Bob, Courtney, Oley, and next gen's Mary, Amy, Holly, Orion and Todd ALL exceptional kind and dedicated folks.
Best words for Todd : irrepressible exuberance ! He combined enthusiasm , confidence and skill with a passion for helping and leading others. And just enough cocky outrageous humor to get all around him laughing uproariously.What a gift to the
world but a loss for his family.
Sincere grateful thanks to all Skinner family members but especially Ol'Todd Skinner the Crazy Man- who went down the River in a Fryin' Pan !
helga sertin
November 26, 2013
In our hearts and minds
the memory of Todd will
will always be alive.
david kaufman
September 9, 2009
Just found out about Todd's passing. I remember him fondly from my summer at his families camp in Pinedale. His laugh and infectious nature pushed me to test my limits both on the rock and off. I can remember when I was learning to lead Todd told me "Jump!", I said "No way" he told me that if I wanted to progress I needed to conquer my fear of falling. So I jumped- thanks Todd! I wish he could see me now on the rock, but I know he's there watching, laughing. And to his family my heart goes out to you, and thank you for all the memories from that summer.
Laura van Ham
December 16, 2007
Hi. I just started the book Into Thin Air and was wondering about a mountain climber that gave a motivational speech about Climbing Trango Tower. This was in the year 2000. His speech moved me so. I was at the edge of my seat and had a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes throughout his story. A couple of people mentioned that they enjoyed watching me listening to Todd. Later, after dinner, I had the opportunity to hang out with Todd in the lounge. It's amazing to me how meeting a person for a couple of hours can have such an impact on another. From reading the entries on a message board, I see that Todd has impacted a tremendous amount of lives and everyone that has met him remembers his smiling face and his can do attitude. His story pops up in my memory every so often and I do a search online for him. I know it's over a year later, but I just found out about Todd's death. I was so sad. My heart goes out to his family.
How you can show support
Nolan "Whiz" Beck
August 30, 2007
In 1981, I met Todd Skinner for the first time as his supervisor in McIntyre Hall at the University of Wyoming. I was new, inexpereinced and looking for leadership from a few of the 22 Resident Assistants. Within a few days, it was apparent to everybody and me, Todd was a natural leader with his infectious smile and concern for people. He lead by example everyday and had a zest for life I will never forget. And yes, he tried to get me into climbing, but my fear of heights were too much. Todd - I have no doubt you are looking down on us from the highest mountain of all with that smile. We will miss, but never forget you.
Jon Meckem
April 17, 2007
To the entire Skinner Family, I am so sorry to hear about Todd. Everyone who has had the pleasure of calling him a fried has benefited greatly! I hope you are doing well, I will never forget all of the skiing we did together back in the old days...
Regards,
Jon Meckem; Jackson/Vail
jen mcginnis
March 15, 2007
rest in peace you're my hero
Tammie Carlson Wilson
January 5, 2007
I grew up with Todd in Pinedale Wyoming and at the University of Wyoming. He was in my graduating class and I have many fond memories of Todd. I was a cross-country ski racer and often Todd offered encouragement and motivation. He was in my church youth group and we had many conversations about life and death and reincarnation. I do know Todd is with the angels and is at peace. I have not met Amy or his family but I know they are very special people. My thoughts are with Todd and his family. I recently read Todd's book and could feel his personality jumping off the pages. What a life!
Helga Sertin
November 15, 2006
To the family and friends of Todd:
My thoughts are with you during this
difficult time.
D N
November 14, 2006
I was walking down to the dihedrals at Smith Rock about to pass this really cute guy. He looked up at me and said "Hi! How are ya doing? What are you going to climb today?" I realized with a shock that it was Todd. I mean Todd Skinner, talking to me, a lowly leader of 5.8 rock! And he really seemed interested in my response!
That was the kind of guy he was. Big hearted, kind - a real people person.
The world is a lesser place without him.
Kevin J Pusey Jr
November 5, 2006
Todd,
You will be so missed by all of us here in Wyoming. Your smile, your devious laugh, and your positive enthusiasm is an inspiration to me that I will never forget.
JoAnne Bitsui
November 2, 2006
Amy,
I had the opportunity of meeting you and Todd through Gay and Micheal Kusuzko. I just want you to know that I've always admired your positive and energetic auras, and so full of life. May the creator always be with you and your children. Todd will always be with you.
Kris Runge
October 31, 2006
I met Todd only once, as a awe-struck 10-year-old kid attending a slide show he gave in Seattle. But I'll never forget him. He was an inspiration then, and has been ever since.
I still have the shirt he signed for me, and think of funny anecdotes he shared whenever I wear it.
The world is a poorer place without him, but he legacy will never be lost. We climb now for him.
Adrian Burgess
October 30, 2006
So Todd, you are gone. But they say that energy cannot be created or destroyed. When I met you you had massive amounts of energy. As a fellow pro climber I know you knew the risks. That's what makes life worth living. You affected a lot of people while on this planet for your short 47 years.
October 30, 2006
Even though I had only met Todd briefly at an Outdoor Industry function both my wife and I are saddened by his passing. The world is a richer place fo his being in it. Peace to the travelers of this world and the next.
Our Deepest Sympathy!
The Lebo Family
Family Brown
October 29, 2006
Amy,
We're with you.
Bill Palmer
October 28, 2006
It was 1980 when I accomplished an almost unthinkable feat for me of climbing Devil’s Tower. This achievement is something I have cherished for all of my life and often point out to friends when a picture of Devils Tower pops up…“I’ve climbed Devil’s Tower, haven’t you?” I owe this accomplishment to Todd Skinner!
I met Todd when he was a skinny kid working the desk at Macintyre Hall at the University of Wyoming. I was a swimmer for the UW and my roommate was a climber named Spencer Gordon who became friends with Todd and accompanied him on numerous climbing adventures at a nearby climbing area called Vedauwoo.
Somehow they convinced me to go on a trip to climb Devils Tower. It was a classic “road trip” in a VW van filled with unknown adventure that every 18 year old dreams of. I was terrified of the multi-pitch exposure of a big wall and the guaranteed rappel destined to follow. Todd motivated me through every aspect of the climb and gave me the confidence I needed to navigate the rappel.
Over the last 26 years I’ve read about the accomplishments of Todd and bragged to my friends……”That’s the guy that I climbed Devils Tower with”. I haven’t talked to
Todd since our College days in Wyoming but he had an impact on my life that few can relate to. I’m sure he touched the lives of many people and I’m grateful to have been one of them!!
Ari Denison
October 27, 2006
I met Todd when he was staying with Bill Soule's house at Smith Rock in Oregon. As Todd and Bill battled for the title of most entertaining (and long-winded) story teller I was taught how to sell a sandbag and resole my sportivas by Todd himself. Yup, I can say that I learned how to resole my shoes by Todd Skinner. ;-) Sadly I didn't listen well enough to his tips on improving my climbing. That week I was happy enough just to watch Todd climb to be honest. Todd was an excellent climber and a great guy. He is already missed.
Tina Olney
October 27, 2006
My brother Bob and I attended a Skinner Brothers expedition to Gannett Peak in the summer of 1977. Although I was in the "slower" group and did not attempt Gannett Bob suceeded. I shall never forget the skills, ability and motivation that all of the Skinners provided to all of us, regardless of abilty! I had the priviledge of Todd, Bob, Courtney, Orion, Holly and Ross Brown's guidance during this incredibly challenging time and I shall never forget this experience.
I also had the honor of summer skiing with Amy Skinner in Zermat the following year-skiing in the northeast has never been the same!
I am devasted with your loss, but I know that Todd is scaling the impossible right now as we speak and his feats will continue to inspire the rest of us.
Thank you for the privledge.
J. Weiss
October 27, 2006
God bless you.
Jennifer & Sean Gaeta
October 27, 2006
Amy I am so sorry for your lose. Our thoughts are with you and the kids. Make sure you give them a hug from Cyan, Leon, and Carlos. We Love You.
Your cousin Jennifer
Dave Warren
October 27, 2006
I am very sorry to hear of Todd's passing. He will be missed by many. He touched so many in his life and will never be forgotten
Louis Cranfill
October 27, 2006
The world is a much more poor place without Todd in it....
Joyce Harris
October 26, 2006
God bless the Skinner Family.
Mad Dog
October 26, 2006
Farewell,
For making me laugh.
For inspiring me to be a better climber.
For giving me a nickname I am unable to shake.
... farewell
Patrick Rulo
October 26, 2006
My Heart goes to your family. I met Todd yeaars ago, when I lived in Yosemite and he was a real nice guy. He was a real inspiration.
Lynn Brown
October 26, 2006
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Irene & Bill Lehman
October 26, 2006
Our love and prayers will be with you this week and from now on. May God hold you in the palm of his hands.
Blessings,
Aunt Irene and Uncle Bill
M. P.
October 26, 2006
I am so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person and my condolensces go to his family.
R M
October 26, 2006
To watch the birth and death of beings is like looking at the movements of a dance. A lifetime is like a flash of lightning in the sky, rushing by, like a torrent down a steep mountain.
-- Buddha
S. S.
October 26, 2006
Dear family and friends of Todd,
I am so happy that Todd was doing what he loved; inspiring others while he did so. It is the risk takers and dreamers that push us to live our lives full of passion.
Rex Chickeneater
October 26, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Roberta Parker
October 26, 2006
Todd was an amazing man with great vision. I had the opportunity to meet him this summer and have since used his ideas to encourage the students I work with. My deepest sympathy is extended to his family, friends, and colleagues.
Matt
October 26, 2006
My condolences go out to Todd’s wife and children. Todd will go down in history as a climbing pioneer who gave a lot to the sport.
SUE DEVOR
October 26, 2006
I HAVE LOST MY HUSBAND JUST ONE MONTH AGO. I UNDERSTAND THE SHOCK AND HEARTACHE YOU ARE SUFFERING.LIFE IS FRAGILE,IT STOPS FOR NO ONE.BE STRONG,YOUR FAMILIES WILL GET YOU THROUGH THIS.
Claude Carson
October 26, 2006
I did not know you but I'm sure you
lived your life to the fullest.
Demetria Alford
October 26, 2006
To the Skinner Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of your lose. I was fortunate to hear Todd speak at Texas Instruments. He inspired me with his courage and bravery. His contributions will be significantly missed. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Demetria Alford
Teresa
October 26, 2006
To Todd's family I am sorry for your loss and your pain. Todd is now climbing the mountains in Heaven. Bless you all.
Chris Bechard
October 26, 2006
I met Todd a long time ago on a mountain far, far away. He said "We must leave the well worn trails if we are to encounter unexpected rewards." How prophetic. I believe Todd is in a better place, for now he truly is, "Beyond the Summit". May his legacy of extraordinary climbs and deeds remind us to live each day to its fullest.
Yvonne
October 25, 2006
Dear Skinner Family,
I am sorry for your loss. No words will make the grief less - but eventually you'll find yourself smiling at memories that make you cry now. I'm sure he'll always be with you.
Brad Solon
October 25, 2006
Occasionally I would have an opportunity to visit with Todd at Devil's Tower in the 80's. Several years later, I attended a local talk given by Todd. He remembered me with a "Hi Brad, it's been a while." Todd was a great guy, thoughtful and kind. He was not boastful of his abilities even though they were great.
I have enjoyed telling my wife and son stories of Todd’s adventures. As we climb together, we will keep his memory alive.
S C
October 25, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to Todd's wife and children. I wish I could ease your grief. Just know that so many of us care.
Brent Struna
October 25, 2006
my sympathies to skinner family,enjoyed class,s of climbing really helped me in Search& rescue careers in my life,loving person.Fremont County SAR communications Expert,SR48
Rodney & Jude Ellis
October 25, 2006
Our sincere condolences to Amy and children.I enjoyed his company on several occasions. Our thoughts are with you during this trying time.
Lane Wilkins
October 25, 2006
A tragic loss,a veteran mountaineer that deserves recognition for his many accomplishments,he left this world doing what was his passion,he had great courage and bravery.
Donna
October 25, 2006
To the Skinner family. I am so sorry for your lose I know Todd was not alone when he died.The Lord sent angels to be with him. And to be with you. He is are comfort in times of great pain. When i lost my little girl she was only 13yrs old that was almost5years.And the one thing that has help heal my heart is knowing the she is with our Father and i will see her someday.
Showing 1 - 50 of 50 results
Make a Donation
in Todd Skinner's name
How to support Todd's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Todd Skinner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored