Beloved dad, brother, partner, friend, and ski instructor Kim Porter passes away unexpectedly
Beloved ski instructor Kim Porter tragically passed away on December 31 following a sudden acute health event that occurred while he was skiing on Vail Mountain. Kim, a cherished father, brother, partner, and friend, was cruising down a blue run on Vail Mountain on Thursday, December 28, when the incident occurred.
Kim Porter is survived by his partner and best friend, Julie Winters, his daughter Kaylee Porter and son-in-law Tyler Hopkins of Fort Collins, his daughter Michelle Porter and partner Colin Moon of Lincoln, Nebraska, his brother Dean Porter of Brighton, his brother Jeff Porter and partner Kari Wyman of Grand Junction, and his former wife, Susan Augustine of Laramie, Wyoming. Kim’s parents, Bill and Diane Porter of Riverton, Wyoming, preceded him in death.
Born Roger Kim Porter on May 22, 1954, in Great Bend, Kansas, Kim grew up in Riverton, Wyoming, where he discovered his lifelong passion for creativity, fun, and adventure. From a young age, Kim’s mischievous nature was evident, as he engaged in various antics and escapades that became legendary in the Riverton community.
In 1974, Kim moved to Laramie, Wyoming, to attend the University of Wyoming. It was there that he met Susan Augustine, whom he later married in 1985, and together they raised their two daughters. Kim will be remembered as a fun and spontaneous dad, famous for cooking the best pancakes and for teaching his daughters about outdoor pursuits. He had a knack for surprising them with new skis and even a dirt bike on one occasion.
Kim’s passion for skiing was evident throughout his life. As a ski instructor, he shared his formidable skills and knowledge with countless individuals. Kim was a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) for an impressive 39 years. In 1989, he became part of one of the first groups to be certified in snowboarding. He dedicated decades of his life to teaching at Snowy Range outside Laramie, Wyoming, before joining the team at Vail in 2004. Known for his infectious smile, warm friendliness, and sharp wit, Kim made a lasting impact on the Lionshead locker room, where his presence added a lively spark.
Beyond skiing, Kim had an abundance of knowledge to share, whether it was about building houses, geology, or first-aid. He held a B.S. in Geology and a B.A. in Science Education and was certified in various disciplines, including OSHA, CPR, and first-aid instruction. Kim briefly worked as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and was also part of the Ski Patrol at Snowy Range for several years. He took great joy in helping others, both on and off the slopes.
Kim’s interests extended far beyond skiing. Throughout his life, he pursued various hobbies and passions, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship. He created masterpieces such as pottery, sculptures, and beautiful tile mosaics. Kim’s creative side was not limited to art; he designed and constructed multiple houses, including his former home in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and his current residence in Montrose. He possessed a green thumb and was particularly fond of hollyhocks, which he cultivated from seed and planted in numerous locations. Kim’s love for plants extended to the call center he managed for twelve years, where he filled the 220,000-square-foot space with an abundance of houseplants.
Kim’s gentle nature attracted animals, who frequently gravitated toward him. Dogs and cats sensed his kind and laid-back vibe and often sought his companionship. Kim’s affinity for animals brought him joy throughout his life.
In addition to his love for the outdoors, Kim enjoyed playing games with his loved ones. He taught his daughters numerous board and card games, and together they invented their own whimsical games. Kim embraced puzzles and relished the time spent solving them with his family. Above all, he cherished the moments shared with loved ones.
With a love for sports, Kim was an avid Fantasy Football player. He moderated three leagues, two of which had been running for decades with friends and family. In a league he fondly referred to as the Dog League, Kim managed accounts for six beloved dogs.
Kim was also an accomplished golfer, winning multiple recreational tournaments and driving contests. In 2023, he fulfilled a twenty-year dream by installing a putting green in his yard. Alongside his partner, Julie, Kim embarked on countless adventures, exploring various states and partaking in activities such as road and mountain biking, rafting, sailing, and hiking. Kim’s indomitable spirit and love for Julie and her dog, Whisper, defined the life they built together.
A celebration of life for Kim Porter will be held in Vail on Monday, February 5, with further details to be announced. In May, another celebration will take place in Laramie. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kim’s memory to our National Parks. Additional information can be found at Give.NationalParks.org.
Kim Porter’s sudden passing has left a void in the lives of many who knew and loved him. His legacy as a beloved dad, brother, partner, friend, and ski instructor will be remembered by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with this extraordinary man.
