Eli William Robinson

Eli William Robinson, 33, died on February 20, 2026, in a ski accident in Colorado — fittingly, doing something he loved. Born on November 9, 1992, in Ithaca, New York, Eli lived his life with uncommon energy, curiosity, and heart.

Raised in upstate New York by his loving parents, Lawrence and Marcie Robinson, Eli grew up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a fearless sense of adventure. That spirit carried him west to attend Whitman College in Washington State and ultimately shaped a life devoted both to wild places and to helping others find their way.

Eli worked primarily in education, always drawn to roles that connected people to opportunity and to the natural world. He led water quality education programs in the field in Utah and around Puget Sound, combining science, stewardship, and his love of being outside. In Seattle, he worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where he helped foster meaningful relationships between youth and volunteer mentors in the community. Most recently, at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, Eli focused on outreach in local high schools, helping first-generation students navigate college and vocational paths. He believed deeply in access, encouragement, and showing up for others — and he did so with enthusiasm and authenticity.

The outdoors was not simply a hobby for Eli; it was the way he moved through the world. He biked, skied, fished, and camped as often as possible. He would drive twelve hours to chase a snowstorm or book a last-minute flight to Mexico for a weekend adventure. He was fearless in the best way — not careless, but alive to possibility. When a routine bike ride stretched into a late-night trek through the woods under headlamps, it was Eli’s boundless energy that kept his companions going.

He was unapologetically himself and stood firmly by those he loved. His partnership with his husband was marked by deep loyalty, playful sass, and shared adventure. Eli’s love was steadfast and generous; he showed up fully, even when things were hard.

Eli is survived by his husband, Andrew Pryhuber; his parents, Lawrence and Marcie Robinson; and countless friends, colleagues, students, and loved ones whose lives are fuller because of him.

A celebration of Eli’s life is planned for Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at McPherson Chapel at Fort Lewis College, with a receoption on campus to follow. All who knew and loved him are welcome to gather in remembrance and in honor of the extraordinary energy and love he brought into the world.

In his 33 years, Eli lived expansively — chasing storms, mentoring futures, fixing what was broken, growing what would nourish others, and loving with his whole heart. His absence is immeasurable, but so is the light and momentum he leaves behind.