Author: Don Wills

Ellie Curtis Dartmouth Obituary – The ski racing community is mourning the loss of Ellie Curtis, a former champion at Dartmouth College, who tragically passed away on April 5, 2025, while skiing at Palisades Tahoe in California. At only 26 years old, Ellie was not just an accomplished athlete but also an inspiration to her peers and friends. Her untimely death has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her, as they remember her indomitable spirit and unwavering love for the mountains.

Ellie Curtis grew up in a family that appreciated the outdoors, and she quickly found her passion for skiing at a young age. Her talent was evident early on, and she made a name for herself in the competitive skiing arena. As a student at Dartmouth College, she not only excelled academically but also became a standout ski racer, earning numerous accolades and breaking records along the way.

Her dedication to the sport was unmatched. Hours spent training on the slopes, coupled with her determination and focus, shaped her into one of Dartmouth’s most notable athletes. Friends and teammates fondly recall her willingness to support others, whether it was providing encouragement at races or helping fellow competitors improve their skills. Ellie’s competitive spirit was always accompanied by camaraderie and kindness, forging lifelong friendships in the process.

On April 5, 2025, the day started like any other for Ellie, as she joined a group of friends—some old, some new—for a day of skiing at Palisades Tahoe. Known for its stunning vistas and challenging terrain, the mountain was a familiar place for Ellie, who was always eager to take on new challenges. The group decided to tackle Ah Chute, a difficult trail that drops steeply into a narrow chute, offering experienced skiers a rush of adrenaline.

However, tragedy struck during what was supposed to be a joyous outing. Details surrounding the incident remain unclear, but it was reported that Ellie suffered significant injuries while navigating the trail. Ski patrol responded swiftly, reaching the scene within two minutes, but despite their efforts to stabilize her and rush her to the hospital, Ellie succumbed to her injuries.

The news of Ellie Curtis’s passing sent shockwaves through the Dartmouth community and beyond. Ski racing enthusiasts, friends, former teammates, and professors have expressed their shock and sorrow over her unexpected death. Tributes have been pouring in from across the globe, reflecting on Ellie’s impact in the world of skiing and the legacy she leaves behind.

Social media has become a platform for former teammates and friends to share heartfelt stories and photos, illustrating the passion Ellie had for skiing and the joyous memories made on the slopes. Many friends have noted that Ellie’s zest for life and deep appreciation for nature were defining characteristics that inspired those around her.

In the wake of this tragedy, a memorial service for Ellie Curtis is in the works at Dartmouth College, aimed at celebrating her life and honoring her unparalleled contributions to the ski racing community. This service will be an opportunity for those who knew her to come together, reflect on their shared experiences, and recognize the profound joy she brought into their lives.

For athletes, friends, and loved ones, this memorial not only serves as a farewell but also as an affirmation of the love and passion Ellie held for skiing. Plans are being discussed to create a scholarship or an award in her name, aimed at supporting future athletes who exhibit the determination, spirit, and kindness that Ellie embodied throughout her life.

Ellie Curtis’s untimely passing is a poignant reminder of the risks associated with the pursuits we love, but it is also a celebration of a life passionately lived. Her legacy as a ski racing champion is forever entwined with her generosity and the deep bonds she formed with her peers. As the skiing community unites to honor her memory, they pledge to carry forward the values Ellie championed: resilience, camaraderie, and an unwavering pursuit of adventure. Though she may be gone, her spirit will undoubtedly endure wherever the snow falls.

The Oregon, Ohio community is mourning the loss of Derek Besgrove, a Senior Process Safety Advisor at Cenovus Toledo Refinery, whose untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. Derek was more than just a safety professional; he was a passionate advocate for process safety management and a committed union representative who fought tirelessly to protect workers and promote a culture of safety. This article reflects on Derek’s life, his contributions to the industry, and the profound impact he made on his community and colleagues.

Derek Besgrove was well-respected in the field of process safety management. His career at Cenovus Toledo Refinery was marked by an unwavering commitment to safety protocols and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in managing safety within the refining industry. As a Senior Process Safety Advisor, Derek played a vital role in ensuring that safety measures were not only implemented but also continuously improved and adapted to changing circumstances.

His work involved collaborating with various teams and departments to develop strategies aimed at mitigating risks, conducting safety audits, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. He was known for his ability to communicate complex safety concepts in a straightforward manner, making it easier for everyone—from management to operational staff—to understand their role in maintaining a safe work environment.

In addition to his technical expertise, Derek served as a United Steelworkers (USW) Process Safety Management Representative at Cenovus. In this capacity, he embodied the principles of advocating for workers’ rights and wellbeing. Derek was a strong proponent of ensuring that workers were not just aware of the safety protocols but were actively involved in shaping them. He understood that effective safety management required the participation and input of all employees, fostering a culture of cooperation and open communication.

Derek’s influence extended beyond the walls of the refinery. He took an active role in community outreach, where he engaged with local organizations and schools to raise awareness about safety practices in both industrial and everyday environments. His efforts helped to cultivate a community that valued safety and education, equipping individuals with the knowledge they needed to make informed decisions.

The news of Derek Besgrove’s passing has sent shockwaves through both the Oregon community and the workforce at Cenovus Toledo Refinery. Colleagues and friends are expressing their condolences, reminiscing about his positive spirit, unwavering support, and dedication to making a difference in their lives. Many remember Derek as someone who always took the time to listen, mentor, and encourage those around him.

Social media tributes have flooded in, as individuals share personal anecdotes highlighting Derek’s kindness, professionalism, and commitment to safety. A memorial service is being planned to honor his life and legacy, providing an opportunity for the community to gather, reflect, and pay their respects.

As Derek’s loved ones navigate this profound loss, many are focused on carrying forward his legacy of safety and community advocacy. The union and the team at Cenovus are committed to honoring his memory by reinforcing the principles he stood for: safety first, collaborative improvement, and a shared responsibility for workplace wellbeing.

Derek’s commitment to process safety management will not be forgotten. Initiatives aimed at revisiting and revitalizing safety programs at the refinery are already underway, ensuring that Derek’s vision for a safer work environment continues to guide the efforts of his colleagues.

Derek Besgrove was a dedicated professional and a beloved member of the Oregon, Ohio community. His contributions to process safety management and his unwavering advocacy for workers’ rights will leave a lasting impact. While his absence will be profoundly felt, his legacy will continue to inspire those who seek to uphold the values of safety, integrity, and community engagement. As Derek’s family, friends, and colleagues come together to remember him, they affirm that his spirit will live on in the lives he touched and the safety measures he championed.