Holden Parazette, a 26-year-old skier and recent physics graduate, died on July 9 in Huntington Beach, California. His parents, Andy and Danielle Parazette, described his death as both unexpected and tragic. The local coroner's office has stated that the incident remains under investigation.
Parazette's parents, who own a taqueria in Jackson, Wyoming, told the Jackson Hole News & Guide that neither drugs nor alcohol were factors in their son's death. They remembered Holden as hardworking, kind, and a deep thinker who was comfortable with himself.
Tributes from teams he skied for and coached have highlighted his sweet, thoughtful, loving, and generous nature. Parazette began skiing at the age of six with the Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club. After graduating high school, he won a slalom championship race at the Junior Nationals.
In February 2024, Parazette earned a degree in physics from Middlebury College in Vermont. He later pursued a master's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Utah, where he also served as an assistant coach for the school's ski team.
The University of Utah's Ski Team shared a social media post noting Parazette's role as a team manager for the 24/25 season. They remembered his ability to keep things light with his unforgettable laugh and his enthusiasm for skiing. The team extended condolences to the Parazette family, who have been significant supporters of the team.
The Middlebury Alpine Ski Team also shared their grief, recalling Parazette as a beloved team member who was sweet, thoughtful, loving, generous, and a little wild. He was described as a member who checked every box for the team.