The ski community lost a true legend on April 22, 2025, with the passing of Trevor Wagner, a beloved coach, mentor, and visionary who fought a courageous four-year battle with cancer.
Trevor’s life was defined by his boundless passion for skiing, uncompromising commitment to his athletes, and deep love for his fiancée, Gladys Weidt.
His legacy will live on in the slopes he shaped, the athletes he inspired, and the hearts of those who knew him.
The Mountains Were Wagner’s Playground, And Skiing Became His Calling
Trevor Wagner was born in Seattle, Washington, and grew up in the rugged beauty of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Whitefish, Montana.
He attended Sierra Nevada College, where he raced competitively and earned his degree.
After graduating, Trevor’s journey as a coach began with the Squaw Valley Ski Team, where his talent for mentoring young athletes quickly became evident.
In 1988, Trevor joined the U.S. Ski Team, coaching the Europa Cup technical team until 2002 and the World Cup team until 2005.
His leadership shone brightest when he was named head coach for the women’s and giant slalom teams.
Trevor restored these disciplines, encouraging a culture of excellence that empowered his athletes to reach new heights.
His impact was undeniable during the 2006 Winter Olympics, when he guided Julia Mancuso to a gold medal in giant slalom, a moment that cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s greats.
After his time with the national team, Trevor returned to the grassroots level, joining the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) as a U16 coach.
For six seasons, he poured his heart into mentoring young skiers, instilling in them the same passion and dedication that defined his career.
Even as health challenges forced him to step back from the hill, Trevor remained a guiding light for his athletes, always encouraging them to chase their dreams.
Beyond coaching, Trevor was a technical advisor for U.S. Ski & Snowboard, designing World Cup and NorAm venues nationwide.
His vision was instrumental in bringing the World Cup Finals to Sun Valley, marking the return of World Cup speed events to the Western U.S. for the first time since the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Working alongside leaders like Tom “Cowboy” Johnson, Trevor helped craft world-class downhill and super-G courses, creating a stage for the sport’s brightest stars.
His efforts revived Sun Valley’s legacy in speed events and left a blueprint for future competitions.
Trevor Loved Gladys Weidt, His Fiancée, For 16 Years, More Than Anything In His Life
Gladys and Trevor’s bond was built on shared adventures, skiing, surfing, tennis, biking, and traveling the world side by side.
Five years ago, Trevor proposed to Gladys, dreaming of a future together.
But when cancer entered their lives, their plans shifted to a different kind of journey, one of resilience, courage, and unwavering love.
Gladys became Trevor’s sole caregiver, confidante, and partner, standing by his side through countless hospital visits and sleepless nights.
A deeply private man, Trevor trusted Gladys to guide him through the hardest moments of his life.
Her devotion never lingered, even as she faced her own profound losses, her brother last fall and her father in January.
With Trevor’s passing, Gladys is grieving the loss of her best friend and the love of her life.
After Trevor passed away, friends and family have come together to support Gladys. They started a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $25,000.
The funds will help cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and give Gladys the time and space she needs to grieve and heal.
The campaign reflects the community’s deep love for Trevor and its commitment to supporting Gladys during this difficult time.
Wagner’s Death Shocked The Ski Community And Led To Many Heartfelt Tributes
Chelsea Prado, Gladys’s best friend, shared a moving message on the GoFundMe page created to support Gladys:
“Trevor Wagner was one of a kind — a gifted skier, a passionate coach, and a loyal friend. He dedicated his life to ski racing, sharing that love with so many, including my husband, who he once coached. We had the honor of having him as a groomsmen, in our wedding, and we’ll never forget his spirit — on the slopes, in the ocean, or flying down mountain bike trails. His love for life was as boundless as his talent, and he will be deeply missed.”
Via Facebook
Jonathan Selkowitz, a friend and colleague, wrote:
“Deeply saddened by the news today of Trevor Wagner’s passing. He made a tremendously positive impact on the athletes, coaches, and staff he worked with. Trevor was modest while his athletic skills were legendary, his knowledge was vast, and his enthusiasm was motivating. My heart goes out to his family and many friends around the world. Rest in Peace Trevor.”
Via Facebook
Andy Buckley, another friend, added:
“R.I.P. Trevor Wagner. The ski community has lost another legend. I had the pleasure of traveling the world with this hilarious man. So many great memories.”
Via Facebook
Trevor Wagner dedicated over 30 years to skiing, leaving a transformative impact through his passion and leadership.
He spent his final years in Sun Valley, fulfilling a lifelong dream. His vision brought the World Cup Finals to the area, revitalizing its legacy in speed events and benefiting future generations.
Trevor’s spirit lives on in the athletes he coached, the courses he designed, and the love he shared with Gladys.
He improved skiing, and his memory will inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
As the ski community mourns his loss, it also celebrates a life well-lived—a life of passion, purpose, and love.
Rest In Peace, Coach
