The Summit County community is grappling with profound grief following the tragic passing of a revered longtime educator, Rick Karden, who died in a climbing accident.
Karden, a cherished Silverthorne resident, passed away on Tuesday, July 29, just one day shy of his 57th birthday, as confirmed by Summit County Coroner Amber Flenniken. His untimely death occurred after a fall while he was climbing a route near Officers Gulch, leaving the community in shock.
For an impressive 25 years, Karden was a cornerstone of Summit High School, where he was not only planning to return for the upcoming academic year but had profoundly shaped generations of students. His dedication to education was unwavering and deeply impactful.
Summit School District Superintendent Tony Byrd highlighted Karden’s widespread recognition as “the computer science guy,” a testament to his expertise. However, his teaching repertoire extended far beyond, encompassing diverse STEM subjects from cybersecurity and video game design to architecture and engineering, showcasing his versatile impact.
Byrd articulated the immense sorrow felt by all, emphasizing that the loss is “profoundly impactful,” especially for Karden’s family. The palpable pain within the Summit community underscores how deeply he was respected and how challenging this period of grief will be for an extended time.
Beyond the curriculum, Karden possessed a unique ability to inspire and guide his students, as recounted by fellow educators. His mentorship empowered them to excel and discover their true potential, particularly in fields where his specialized knowledge was invaluable.
In response to the widespread grief, Summit High School is opening its doors to provide solace and support, offering assistance from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, July 31. Staff from Building Hope and the Summit School District will be readily available at the school, ensuring students and staff have access to crucial emotional support during this difficult time.
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