Petzl America Inc. confirmed that Garrett Smith, who was killed as the result of an avalanche March 26, worked as a senior customer sales and support representative with the company. He specialized in the professional and international markets.


Smith, 26, was caught in an avalanche with two of six companions while touring in the backcountry on Horseshoe Mountain, in the Manti-La Sal National Forest near Ephraim, Utah.


KSL.com quoted a brother of one of the skiers as saying Smith was buried for 10 to 20 minutes before being dug out by the other skiers. They administered CPR on Smith for 40 minutes and were able to revive him before he slipped into unconsciousness while being transported to the hospital.


He died in the hospital Sunday afternoon following a heroic rescue by his touring partners, as well as rescue teams from Sanpete and Sevier County. Two other victims of the avalanche survived, were treated and released. 


According to Garrett's wishes and the family's wishes, “he will be able to bring life to many people through the donation of his strong organs,” said the family in a statement (see link below).

“Garrett's bright spirit, infectious smile, and passion for the outdoors made a powerful impression on everyone he encountered,” said Roody Rasmussen, President of Petzl America. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Garrett's wife, Molly Barker Smith; his father and mother, Doug and Debbie Smith; and his friends and family during this time of bereavement. We are all greatly saddened by this loss and we will miss him deeply.


“Garrett touched all of our lives and always taught us by example the importance of following our passions and living a purposeful life,” Rasmussen continued. “Garrett's life was inspiring, and his passing serves as a reminder that there's no time to waste in this world when it comes to living life to the fullest, loving, and chasing your dreams.”