Erik Shepard passed away in a car accident on January 20th, 2022, at 27 years old. Erik’s energy and enthusiasm were tangible to all who crossed his path, and his passing has been incredibly sudden and tragic. Erik was following his dreams and beginning his career as a pilot, having just earned both his commercial pilot certificate and his flight instructor certification this winter. He planned to return to Alaska this summer to gain hours and experience flying in the backcountry.

 Prior to moving to Boulder with his partner Emma, the two of them lived in the Methow Valley in Washington State. Erik had been spending his time as a mountain guide and as a member of the local band, Bitterroot Beets. They met while Emma was working at Northwest Outward Bound.

We are fundraising for travel, rent, and to establish a scholarship in Erik’s name for those pursuing flight training.

 Below we elaborate on these expenses:

- Funds to cover Erik's portion of rent in the house he shared with Emma to alleviate Emma's financial stress. As you may know, rent in Boulder is one of the highest in the country.

- The cost of plane tickets for Emma and Erik’s family to travel, for example to gather with Erik’s community in Washington and to scatter his ashes as he wished.

We estimate that these costs will total at least $5,000.

Any funds that are raised beyond what is necessary for the expenses described above will be put towards a scholarship to be established in Erik’s name, specifically for those pursuing flight training.

Thank you for donating to this cause. Every dollar raised will be greatly appreciated by Emma and Erik’s family and will help forward his legacy in aviation. 

 

In grief and hope,

Friends of Erik and Emma