Durango, Co – Durango, Colorado, mourns the loss of Elyse Parcell, a cherished member of the community and a dedicated Telluride Ski Resort Ski Patroller, who tragically passed away on November 15, 2023, following a fatal car accident on November 9. The heartbreaking news, confirmed by loved ones through various Facebook posts, has left family, friends, and colleagues deeply saddened.
Born on May 7, 1992, in Durango, Colorado, Elyse was the beloved daughter of Kathy and Bob Parcell. Described as a “ray of sunshine” loved by all, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth and impact in the lives of those she touched.
Elyse Parcell’s academic journey was marked by her passion for environmental biology. Graduating from Fort Lewis College in 2014 with a B.S. in Organismic and Environmental Biology, she embarked on a diverse career path driven by her love for nature and service.
Her career began as a Wildlife Biologist Technician at the U.S. Forest Service-Manti-La Sal National Forest in Moab, Utah. She then transitioned through roles including an internship at Silverton Mountain, a Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service-Sawtooth National Forest, and Pike Hotshots in Monument, Colorado.
Jessika Buell posted on Facebook,
“You were one of my first skaters in Durango and your passion and spunk made me fall in love with coaching.You and these skaters were the first kids I truly ever loved.“We spent countless mornings on the ice at 6am. With countless laughs. Countless tears. Countless moments of frustration. And countless moments of success.You worked hard and played harder.“Your spirit was untouchable. Your energy contagious. Your passion for the things you loved shined through in your smile.I remember when I got pregnant with Connor you got so mad at me and cried and told me I wouldn’t love you anymore because I would have my own kids.“I love you so much Elyse Dominica Parcell and I will always be your (and Teresa’s) Mama Jessi.Miss you already. Fly high sweet girl. I am holding Kathy Parcell and Bob in my heart and thoughts.”
Elyse’s spirit for adventure and service led her to diverse experiences, including a stint as a Former Heliski Intern at Alaska Mountain Guides. She contributed her skills to various roles such as Ski Patrol at Telluride Ski Patrol, River Guide at OARS – Whitewater Rafting, and Assistant Heli Ski Guide at Pulseline Adventure, leaving an indelible mark on communities in Telluride, Silverton, Moab, and Durango.
Remembered fondly by her mother, father, Aunt Jill, Uncle Rob, Aunt Debbie, and her soul sister Elizabeth Schwab, Elyse’s passing is mourned by countless friends across Southwest Colorado and beyond.
During her hospitalization, a GoFundMe account was initiated by Kelsy Woodson and others to support Elyse Parcell, with a fundraising goal of $20,000. Currently, the campaign has raised $1,100 through the generosity of 14 individuals, offering support during a challenging time.
The family plans to release Elyse Parcell’s obituary, a testament to her vibrant life and the profound impact she had on the communities she served and the hearts she touched. Her memory remains cherished, celebrating a life devoted to service, adventure, and spreading joy.
