A Tragic Day on Mt. Superior
On November 13, the Salt Lake City community was shaken by the devastating loss of Tanner Baran, a vibrant and deeply cherished young man whose life was tragically cut short in an accident on Mt. Superior in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The canyon, a place known for its breathtaking beauty and beloved by those who crave adventure, now holds a different kind of weight—a sorrow that echoes through the hearts of everyone who knew Tanner. His passing has left friends, family, and the entire skiing community grappling with a grief that feels almost unimaginable. Tanner’s bright presence, one that once shone effortlessly across every room he entered, has now become a memory held tightly by those who loved him most.
Remembering Tanner’s Bright Spirit and Lasting Impact
Those who knew Tanner describe him as a rare soul—someone whose dazzling smile seemed to light up the world and whose spirit held a warmth that made people feel seen and valued. He approached life with a fierce passion, especially when it came to skiing, a sport he not only loved but one he used to inspire others. Tanner wasn’t just an athlete; he was a mentor, an encourager, a friend who stood behind others and lifted them toward their own goals.
In the painful aftermath of his loss, Tanner’s family and loved ones created something beautiful in his honor—the Tanner Baran Legacy Scholarship Fund. This fund is not just a tribute; it is an extension of Tanner’s heart. Its purpose is simple yet powerful: to ensure that financial limitations never prevent young athletes from pursuing the sport he loved so deeply. Through this scholarship, Tanner’s generosity continues. His encouragement continues. His belief in the dreams of others continues. Even in grief, his life remains a source of light.
The creation of this fund has provided many with a sense of peace, a reminder that although Tanner is no longer physically here, the impact he made in just one lifetime will ripple outward for years to come. The young skiers who receive this gift will carry a part of Tanner’s spirit on every mountain they climb.
A Community United in Grief and Love
As friends and family struggle to make sense of their loss, the community has rallied around them with compassion, prayer, and unwavering support. The pain of losing someone so young, so vibrant, so irreplaceable leaves wounds that healing cannot rush. Yet, in the countless messages, the shared memories, and the gentle ways people have shown up for one another, there is a collective strength forming—a strength Tanner himself would have offered if the roles were reversed.
In the days, months, and years ahead, Tanner’s absence will be felt deeply. But so will the love he gave. So will the laughter he shared. So will the legacy he left behind.