Avalanche takes life of Armada co-founder

When we first received news that JP Auclair and Andreas Fransson were caught in an avalanche while climbing in Patagonia, we held out hope. We can now speak with certainty about one of the most difficult things to acknowledge - the loss of two incredible
Published: October 3, 2014

Press release:

October 3, 2014, Costa Mesa, CA

When we first received news that JP Auclair and Andreas Fransson were caught in an avalanche while climbing in Patagonia, we held out hope.  We can now speak with certainty about one of the most difficult things to acknowledge – the loss of two incredible human beings.  Our thoughts and prayers are with JP and Andreas’ families.

The loss of our co-founder, JP, in particular, is overwhelming for us.  He had an incredible impact on everything he touched.  JP pioneered and transcended skiing genres and left an indelible mark on the sport.  He was a philanthropist, entrepreneur, director and filmmaker, photographer, designer, climber, skater, mountain biker, guide, X Games competitor, member of the New Canadian Air Force, and one of the few non-Japanese citizens to be certified at Kendama.  JP was our favorite person to be around; he was hilarious and he was kind.  Above all, JP was a father, a fiancé, a son, a brother, a godfather, a friend, and genuinely magnificent human.

Many people are asking what they can do to help.  JP’s family would like to see donations directed to support Léo and Ingrid through the Auclair Fund or to the non-profit JP started, Alpine Initiatives.

Today, tomorrow and always, JP’s legacy will live on.  In Ingrid and their son Léo, in skiing, in Alpine Initiatives, in Armada, and in the countless lives that were made better because of him.

Love,

The Armada Family

Share your stories and photos of JP on the tribute page: https://armadaskis.com/jp-auclair/

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series