Kenneth M. Goff

Kenneth M. “Kenny” Goff of Lander, WY (formerly of Joshua Tree, CA, Bozeman, MT, and Bell Acres, PA), passed from this world tragically early while embracing his passion for wilderness adventure. Kenny was taken from his family, fiancée, and many, many friends by an avalanche while backcountry skiing near Breccia Cliffs in the Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming. A wilderness educator, climbing and mountaineering guide, naturalist, ski instructor, and wilderness first responder, Kenny enthusiastically shared his love of the outdoors. Kenny taught and guided for organizations including the National Outdoor Leadership School, Naturalists At Large, SWS Mountain Guides, Mojave Guides, Big Sky Ski School, Wind River Climbing Guides, and the Crossroads School. He enjoyed mountain expeditions in Alaska, including a summit of Denali, as well as climbing adventures from Peru, to Greece, to Thailand. 

Most recently, Kenny added registered nurse to his qualifications, working as an emergency room nurse with SageWest Health Care in Lander & Riverton, WY, and was a committed rescue volunteer and membership coordinator with Lander Search and Rescue.

Kenny’s childhood love was soccer which he continued to play for fun and recreation. Kenny graduated in 2011 from Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, with a business degree from the Kelley School of Business, but more significantly for his developing passion for nature, with a minor in outdoor recreation from the School of Public Health. That minor and Kenny’s involvement with IU’s Outdoor Adventures program catalyzed the adventure, lasting friendships, and joyous approach to life that embodied Kenny. 

We all will remember Kenny’s sparkling eyes, bright smile, and consistently positive and good-natured personality.

Kenny is survived by his parents, Thomas O. & Ingrid M. Goff (Bell Acres, PA), his brother, Daniel T. Goff (Alexandria, VA), his maternal grandmother, Marlene “Oma” Krumme (Bell Acres, PA), his fiancée & soulmate & adventure partner, Sydney Hartsock (Lander, WY), and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A private service will be held in Jackson, WY. Celebrations of Kenny’s life will be scheduled for later in 2025 in Joshua Tree, Lander, and Bell Acres.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kenny’s memory to Lander Search and Rescue, 625 Garfield Street, Lander, WY 82520.