It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Kai Smart, a beloved son, brother, grandson, family member, and friend to so many.

Along with all of you we are friends of the Smart family. We feel it is important to keep life simple for the Smarts while they are grieving and coming to terms with the sudden passing of their beloved son Kai.

In the days leading up to Kai’s passing, he required medical care that has resulted in significant expenses. Although the transport back to Canada and some hospital costs were covered by one insurance policy, the extended length and depth of care that Kai received in the ICU in Japan was not, as his accident happened in the backcountry, which his medical insurance did not cover. We are raising funds to help cover these medical bills, the family's travel costs, as well as a Celebration of Life.

Our immediate goal is to help relieve these direct financial pressures on the Smart family so they can focus on grieving, healing, and honouring Kai.

Kai lived with an energy and openness that is rare at any age. He was a warrior, a mountain man, an explorer of the world, and a lover of people from all walks of life. He was an honour student, a passionate skier, surfer, dirt biker, climber, hiker, kitesurfer, and adventurer in every sense of the word. He lived fully, intensely, and joyfully, and in his short life experienced more than many do in a lifetime.

What stood out most about Kai was not only what he did, but how he moved through the world. He connected with people across borders, languages, and cultures. He carried curiosity, courage, humility, and kindness wherever he went. He made people feel welcome, inspired, and more alive.

The Smart family intends to establish a memorial fund in Kai's name. The exact structure is still being thoughtfully considered, but the vision is to create something lasting that reflects who Kai was and what he stood for — something that helps young people explore, learn, connect across cultures, and live with the same courage, openness, and love for the world that defined him.

The Smart family is deeply grateful for the extraordinary outpouring of love, kindness, and support they have received. Every message, memory, and gesture has meant so much.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will help honour Kai by supporting the family now and helping build a legacy worthy of his remarkable life.

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