Victor, Idaho is grieving a loss that has rippled far beyond its snow-capped peaks. Max Martin — an inspiring ski coach, trusted mentor, and devoted husband — died while skiing in Japan, leaving behind a close-knit community devastated by his sudden passing. His warmth, passion, and generosity made him a guiding light to many on and off the slopes.
Martin grew up under the towering shadows of the Tetons in Jackson, Wyoming, where the mountains were less a backdrop and more the center of his world. He discovered a love for movement and competition early in life, a spark that followed him through school at Rowland Hall Saint Mark’s and into higher education. At Plymouth State University, he studied Exercise Physiology, blending science with sport in ways that would later define his coaching style.
His return to Idaho wasn’t just a homecoming — it was the start of a life devoted to helping others chase their own best. As the owner and head coach of Train the Tetons, Max wasn’t just teaching technique; he was building confidence. Athletes who arrived unsure of themselves found discipline and joy under his instruction. They learned to listen to their bodies, challenge their limits, and respect the mountains that both shaped and humbled them.
Friends and trainees describe him as more than a coach. His energy was infectious, his encouragement constant, and his ability to connect with people remarkable. It didn’t matter whether you were strapping on skis for the first time or training for competition — Max met everyone where they were and lifted them higher. That blend of technical skill and genuine care drew many into his circle and made his loss feel deeply personal to all who knew him.
At the center of Martin’s joy was his wife, Eliza Whatley Martin. Their partnership was more than a marriage; it was a shared adventure. Theirs was a life built on laughter, support, and a mutual love for exploration — from local Idaho trails to the distant slopes of Japan. Eliza stood by him through every venture, and the strength of their bond was known to everyone who knew them.
News of Max’s passing while skiing in Japan has sent shockwaves through the skiing communities of Idaho, Wyoming, and beyond. Details about the exact circumstances of the accident have not been released, but the impact of his loss has been immediate and profound. Tributes from friends, athletes, and fellow coaches have poured in, all echoing a common theme: Max didn’t just improve skills — he changed lives.
As Victor and the wider outdoor world come to terms with this tragedy, they also celebrate a life lived with passion and purpose. Max Martin’s legacy will be seen in every confident turn on the snow, every young athlete inspired to push a little harder, and every memory shared by those who were lucky enough to know him. In communities from Idaho to Japan, his spirit lives on in the mountains he loved so much.
