A University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh student has died in an apparent ski accident at Granite Peak ski resort, marking the second fatal incident there in less than a month.
On Feb. 5, 20-year-old Alexandra Blattner was found unconscious and without a pulse after reportedly crashing into a tree while skiing at Granite Peak, according to local reports citing the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office. She was later pronounced dead that evening.
UW–Oshkosh Chancellor Manohar Singh informed students and staff of Blattner’s death in an email the next day.
In her obituary, Blattner’s family said she died “in an instant and without pain,” and noted that she donated her tissues to help others.
Blattner, who was from Neenah, Wisconsin, was studying pre-nursing and psychology and had experience working as a certified nursing assistant. On campus, she was active in student senate, spent time with friends, and participated in her Tri Sigma sorority.
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“Ally was a shining light in every room she entered. She loved to be with others,” her obituary said. “She wouldn’t walk away until you were smiling and laughing along with her. Although short, she lived her life with energy, meaning and enjoyment.”
Blattner served as vice president of recruitment for her sorority, which shared a tribute to her online.
“We are all so lucky to get to call Ally our sister. She not only made an impact in our lives but all across our campus community,” said Tori Deptula, president of the UW–Oshkosh chapter.
A memorial for Blattner was held Thursday, Feb. 12, followed by her funeral the next day.
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In her obituary, her family encouraged those who wished to honor her to consider donating in her name to the Boys and Girls Brigade, March of Dimes, the Tri Sigma Foundation, Touch of Class at Neenah High School, or to volunteer time at a nursing home or mental health facility.
Blattner’s death comes less than a month after another fatality at Granite Peak. On Jan. 11, a man reportedly lost a ski and fell down a slope at the resort, according to local reports. Authorities said he hit his head on a tree and later died from his injuries, despite wearing a helmet.
