Industry News
Freeskiing icon Dr. Robb Gaffney succumbed to acute myeloid leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, on September 22, 2023, four days short of his 53rd birthday. He was a local legend in the Lake Tahoe skiing community, author of the revered book ‘Squallywood,’ and co-creator of the beloved game of G.N.A.R. He was also a ski film star, psychiatrist, comedian, author, nature-lover, community defender, boundary-pusher, kayaker, and—above all—family man, according to his brother Scott. He is deeply missed by his wife, two children, family, and friends in the Tahoe community.
His brother Scott Gaffney, a famous skiing filmmaker, has put together a short tribute film, honoring his late brother Robb. It is heartwarming and inspiring to say the least. Gaffney wrote about his brother’s passing:
“A tribute to my brother Robb, who passed away on September 22, 2023 at the age of 52 after a four year battle with AML. We showed this edit at his Celebration of Life in Olympic Valley, CA on October 6, 2023. A ski film star, psychiatrist, comedian, author, nature-lover, community defender, boundary-pusher, kayaker, and–above all–family man, Robb lived an exceptional life of adventure, learning, helping others and love. Hopefully he can inspire others to do the same. The opening speech–which makes an appearance several times–is something Robb distantly-delivered to an audience at a fundraiser shortly after he was first diagnosed in 2019. The rest of his interviews I found in his phone–one he’d had throughout his cancer journey. He’d evidently turned the camera on himself routinely throughout the past four years to leave easter eggs for his family and friends to discover after he was gone.”
Not long after losing his brother, Gaffney saw a memorial to Robb in the Tahoe area where the words “Legend Dr. Robb” were illuminated on the mountainside adjacent to the Aerial Tram at Palisades Tahoe during a TGR film premiere. Gaffney felt a sense of deep emotion and honor for his brother, whose spirit lives on amongst his friends, family, and the community at large in Tahoe.
Since his passing, professional skiers and big names from the industry have flooded social media with comments of love and respect for Robb. From a personal point of view, Robb Gaffney was one of the most beautiful skiers we have ever skied with. He will be missed. We will carry his spirit with us in our hearts and our memories until our own time comes.
“He’s still the best skier on this mountain ♥️ we love you Robb”
– Connery Lundin
“Oh I’m so sorry to hear. He truly was one of a kind and made the world infinitely better. So much love to you and your family Scott.”
– Ingrid Backstrom
“Robb and Shane are laughing so hard right now. What a legend! ❤️”
– Mike Douglas
