February 23, 2021
With incredible sadness, we share that Kevin Whiting tragically passed away on February 23, 2021, in an avalanche outside of Valemount, B.C. He lost his life in the mountain spaces he adventured in and loved.
Kevin will be greatly missed by his partner Elizabeth Millions, his parents Sandra Whiting and Wes Whiting, and his siblings Amanda (Chris), Fawn (Nathan), Daniel (Andrea), and Jeffrey (Nicole). Sadly Kevin had but a few short visits with his nephew James and niece Elsie. His aunt, uncles, and cousins throughout Canada join in our grief.
Kevin grew up in the Cowichan Valley. In school he excelled both in academics and sports. His childhood and adolescent years spent in the Cowichan Valley Soccer Association, most notably with his same teammates, undoubtedly contributed to his quiet leadership and team-building ability.
Following high school, Kevin attended the University of Victoria, and graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree. His engineering work took him to BC, Alberta and the Yukon, most recently as a project manager for power line installations.
Kevin was an adventurer. Interspersed with his engineering work were summers spent whitewater river rafting and kayaking in the Yukon and B.C. His stories and photos of guiding trips down the Tatshenshini and Alsek Rivers showed his love of not only the outdoors, but of the camaraderie formed when completing such adventurous undertakings.
He travelled and kayaked throughout North and South America; he loved exploring in the mountains by foot, on skis and by bike; he was always eager for any adventure, no matter how big or small the undertaking, and he was always excited for the nap that followed. He loved the magic of the mountains, playing in the snow and backcountry skiing, and he loved sharing this passion with the people in his life.
Kevin packed an incredible amount of living into his short 35 years. While he loved to travel and explore, he also loved the Island and returning home to his roots to spend time with his family.
For those inclined to donate to a charity in Kevin's name, we know he would appreciate supporting British Columbia Search & Rescue (https://www.bcsara.com/donate/) and Avalanche Canada (https://www.avalanche.ca/foundation).
In remembering Kevin, get outside, explore, forge meaningful connections, and be your best self.