North Vancouver man dies in kiteboarding accident in Squamish

The world has lost an “outstanding guy,” says a friend of the man who died kiteboarding in Squamish on Canada Day.

Gray Taylor died when an unusually strong gust of wind caught him and threw him onto the rocks off Squamish Coastal Park, says Michael Coulthard, Taylor’s friend who was with him at the time of the accident.

“He was probably one of the kindest, most respected people I know in our community. It’s such a great loss,” Coulthard said.

“He was a really well-connected and respected person in the community.”

Taylor, a North Vancouver resident in his 50s who has spent a lot of time in Squamish, had a “great day” mountain biking here with friends in the morning. Then they went to the beach and Taylor went kiteboarding.

Coulthard said the conditions on the water were “really challenging” and Taylor was simply hit by the gust at the wrong time.

Coulthard noted that Taylor is a former Ironman athlete and swimmer who is experienced and very safety conscious.

“I don’t take any risks at all, I’m a very safe person,” he said.

When the accident occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday, Coulthard pulled his friend to shore and performed CPR. There was a large group of people in the park, including trained professionals, who also rushed to help, Coulthard said.

He emphasized the quick response of passersby and members of the Squamish Windsports Society, BC Ambulance Service and Squamish Fire Rescue.

“The response came quickly. Help was there,” he said.

The District of Squamish released a statement on Taylor’s death on July 4, expressing the community’s sadness and gratitude to everyone who tried to help Taylor.

“The district is deeply saddened by this outcome and would like to express its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time,” the statement said.

“The District would also like to thank everyone who jumped in to help and acknowledge the quick response of the Squamish Windsport Society (SWS) emergency crew who were on duty at Pepahim, Spit Island and reached the injured kiteboarder within minutes and began first aid in this emergency situation. Our appreciation also goes out to the tireless efforts of the Squamish Fire Department crews and all first responders on scene.”

Coulthard said Taylor was a family man, a devoted husband and a great father to a teenager.

“Family was everything to Gray, but he stood up for everyone,” said his good friend Aaron Rideout.

“He was the first to volunteer his time to help, give advice or just chat. He was immensely proud of the life he had built with his wife and son and loved sharing those experiences with others: whether it was mountain biking, camping or a good meal. He did everything with a smile on his face and made everyone around him feel comfortable and important and heard and cared for. He was a gem.”

The developer of the new seaside park sent his condolences to Taylor’s family.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic accident at Sp’akw’us Feather Park and extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” John Matthews, president of Matthews West Developments, said in an email to The Squamish Chief.

A spokesperson for the BC Coroners Service told the Squamish Chief that Taylor’s death was under investigation.

Taylor’s family asks for privacy during this difficult time.