Michael Arthur “Micky” Geller, a champion water skier and a student at the University of Louisiana, passed away suddenly on May 6th at the age of 18. Water Ski Canada and Geller’s school’s Waterski team announced the sad news earlier this week.
The cause of his death has not been revealed yet. Geller hailed from Ontario and ranked number 6 in the world as a junior water skier in the U21 jump. Read on to know more about his tragic demise.
Champion Waterskier Micky Geller Dies at 18
Ragin’ Cajuns Waterski Team, Geller’s team at the University of Louisiana announced his death with a statement on May 16th: “It is with heavy hearts that we share with all of you the news that team member Micky Geller has passed away. Micky was a valued member of both The Ragin’ Cajuns Water Ski Team and Water Ski Canada.”
“His love for water skiing was evident in everything he did, from his training and competitions to his interactions with his teammates and coaches. Micky was ranked 6th in the world as a junior water skier in U21 jump and was attending UL Lafayette on a full scholarship.”
“Micky will always be remembered for his amazing work ethic, unending passion, humor, athleticism, and charisma. He loved nothing more than hitting the ramp and flying far but also enjoyed rock climbing, motorcycling, snowmobiling, engaging in deep conversation and debates about current events, and music.”
The athlete is survived by his mother Bobbiann, father Mitch, sister Chloe ad grandparents Mary Ann and Bob Cormack, and Bob and Lynn Macpherson. His funeral service took place on May 18th in Ottawa, Canada.
Water Ski Canada Releases Statement
Geller represented Water Ski Canada in several tournaments, including the U17 IWWF World Championships, the Jr. US Masters Water Ski Tournament, and the 2022 Pan American Championships.
The sports team released a statement paying tribute to the athlete: “As skiers and all the members of our community begin to mourn this great loss, many will acknowledge his amazing work ethic, unending passion, humour, athleticism, and charisma.”
Micky’s family has now requested to create an award in his memory. “WSWC will work with them on a suitable way to remember Micky’s wonderful contribution to our sport and everyone in it,” wrote Water Ski Canada. Meanwhile, The University of Louisiana at Louisiana kept their flags at half-mast on May 18th in honor of the deceased student.
Geller Ranked Number 6 in World’s Junior Waterskiers
Apart from Water Ski Canada and Ragin’ Cajuns, Geller was also a part of the Ontario skiing community. He spent his childhood doing gymnastics and later got interested in rock climbing and waterskiing. “Micky was ranked 6th in the world in U21 Jump and loved nothing more than flying off the ramp,” read the obituary by his family.
“With his full-throttle approach to life, Micky experienced more in his 18 years than many ever will. However, he was just cracking the surface of the possibilities that lay ahead. There are so many people who truly loved Micky simply because he loved so generously,” it read further.
Our condolences to Micky Geller’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace!