Jeff Shiffrin, father of World Cup racer, dies

The ski racing community is shocked to learn of the passing of Jeff Shiffrin, father of World Cup athlete Mikaela Shiffrin. Shiffrin died following an accident at his home in Edwards, Colo., on Sunday, Feb. 2. 

Shiffrin was transported to a Denver-area hospital and was surrounded by family during his final hours, including son Taylor, daughter Mikaela, and wife Eileen, who returned home from Europe.

A former Dartmouth racer, Shiffrin will be remembered as a loving family man, renowned anesthesiologist, and valued member of the Vail Valley community. He was 65.

Shiffrin is survived by Eileen, Mikaela, and Taylor. 

In a Facebook post, Mikaela Shiffrin said, “My family is heartbroken beyond comprehension about the unexpected passing of my kindhearted, loving, caring, patient, wonderful father. Our mountains, our ocean, our sunrise, our heart, our soul, our everything. He taught us so many valuable lessons…but above everything else, he taught us the golden rule: be nice, think first. This is something I will carry with me forever. He was the firm foundation of our family and we miss him terribly. Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for respecting my family’s privacy as we grieve during this unimaginable and devastating time.”

Service arrangements are forthcoming. Mikaela Shiffrin is expected to remain in Colorado, and her return to the alpine World Cup tour is indefinite at this time.   

On behalf of the ski racing community, our thoughts and prayers are with the Shiffrin family during this difficult time.