POWDER is sad to report that skier Tom Warnick passed away from unknown circumstances. Warnick, who turned 22 in October, was a member of Stept Productions and filmed annually with the Boulder-based production house. Warnick had a hand in producing and filming for Stept’s films including The Eighty-Six and Weight, both which were nominated for Movie of the Year at the annual POWDER Awards.
Warnick was best known for his wild antics both on and off hill, and an immaculate style that made him a celebrated, albeit underground, skier in the forums and video section of Newschoolers.com.
“We all have our place, we are a family” said professional skier Clayton Vila in a phone interview. “He had a real huge part in our group of friends. I would never turn down an opportunity to hang out with Tom. He was so entertaining. He was our comic relief, and an early inspiration to all of us as skiers. He was the most naturally talented skier I’ve ever known.”
Warnick was originally from Maryland and grew up skiing at Wisp alongside Tom Wallisch. He and Vila were also good friends, having skied together at Waterville Valley in New Hampshire since the age of 13. Upon graduation, the two moved to Colorado to study at CU Boulder and pursue life as professional skiers.
“This is a hard day,” says Vila. “We loved that kid a lot.”
The Stept crew is gathered in Boulder, Colorado. Over the phone, professional skier Sean Jordan weighed in on the loss of Warnick.
“Tom was the most energized person to have around,” says Jordan. “He may not have made the best decisions, but he was a great friend to many people in this industry. Today, skiing lost someone really important. Tom was a big part of skiing for a lot of people.”
On his Facebook wall, many skiers paid their condolences to Warnick and his family, including Wallisch.
“RIP my brotha. Can’t even believe you’re gone. So many amazing memories and fun times. The days back in Deep Creek with the whole crew will never be forgotten. One of the most fun and energetic kids I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. Shred in peace buddy. Thanks for all the good times.” —Tom Wallisch
POWDER sends our condolences to the family and friends of Tom Warnick.
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