Kendall Willard Death & Obituary: The community of Kingfield, Maine, and winter sports enthusiasts across the region are mourning the tragic loss of Kendall Willard, a 63-year-old man who died in a snowboarding accident at Sugarloaf Mountain on the morning of April 5, 2025. His death has been confirmed by the Maine Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and further details have been released following an investigation by local authorities.
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A Tragic Misstep on a Closed Trail
According to Carrabassett Valley Police Chief Mark Lopez, the accident occurred after Willard accidentally dropped an item while riding the chairlift. In an effort to retrieve it, he disembarked and found himself on a closed trail—marked off due to dangerous icy conditions.
Unaware of the extreme risks, Willard attempted to walk down the icy slope. Tragically, he lost his footing, sliding into a group of trees and sustaining severe injuries that ultimately proved fatal. Although initial reports described him as skiing, the Medical Examiner later confirmed that Willard had been snowboarding at the time of the incident.
Community in Mourning
The accident occurred around 9 a.m. on Saturday and has left a profound impact on both Sugarloaf Mountain’s community and the town of Kingfield, where Willard was a well-known resident. Described as a regular visitor to Sugarloaf and a passionate winter sports enthusiast, Willard’s presence on the mountain was familiar and welcomed.
In the wake of this loss, residents, fellow snowboarders, and skiers have extended their condolences, remembering him for his love of the outdoors and the quiet joy he found on the slopes.
A Reminder of Mountain Safety
Sugarloaf Mountain has long been a destination for skiers and snowboarders across the Northeast. However, due to fluctuating spring temperatures, some trails become increasingly treacherous, particularly when icy conditions arise.
The trail where Willard’s accident occurred had been closed specifically for safety reasons, and the tragedy has prompted renewed conversations about mountain safety protocols, awareness, and the importance of heeding trail closures—even for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
Final Reflections
As authorities continue to investigate and determine the exact cause of death in coordination with the medical examiner, the community reflects on the fragile balance between adventure and caution that winter sports demand.
Kendall Willard’s untimely passing is a somber reminder of how quickly joy can turn to tragedy, even in places that bring us the most fulfillment.
Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to Kendall’s family, friends, and the broader Kingfield and Sugarloaf communities. May his memory be honored by those who shared the mountain with him—and by all who find peace and exhilaration in nature’s snowy peaks.