The man who died in an avalanche above Aspen Monday is being remembered as a talented educator who had a deep understanding of environmental science. 48-year old Arin Trook was the Education Director at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. In a statement, CEO Chris Lane said “This organization will forever be inspired by his work and his commitment to community, diversity, and family.” Trook leaves behind a wife and two children. ACES has set up two ways to support them.
Trook had been with the center for 23 years, working first as a naturalist and educator, and since 2013, as Education Director. He was well-known to many students in the Aspen School District, and RE-1 and RE-2 School Districts. In the statement from ACES, Lane added “Arin’s talent as an educator is unmatched — from his engaging storytelling skills and deep understanding of environmental science to his ability to address diverse audiences with his message of progressive environmental and social awareness.”
Trook and another man were skiing near the Markley Hut in the Castle Creek Valley Monday morning when an avalanche began. Trook was buried, but the other man was able to summon help. Rescuers located Trook and began performing CPR, but he was declared dead a short time later.
ACES has created a GoFundMe page where community members can donate to the Arin Trook Memorial Fund to support Arin’s family.
And Alpine Bank has set up an account for the Arin Trook Memorial Fund. Donations are accepted at any Alpine Bank or at Alpine Bank, Arin Trook Memorial Fund, Attn: Stefan Reveal, 600 E. Hopkins Ave., Aspen, CO 81611.