Snowmass Village pioneer, Bob Kevan, passed away peacefully in his home in Ashland, OR, on Jan. 27, 2010. He was 90. Following a 30-year career in medical administration, during which he administered the newly created VA hospital system, and established birth control programs in Thailand and India, he and his Ruth, moved to Snowmass Village in 1972.

They opened the Stew Pot (and later the Wineskin, the Peppermill, and finally Chez Grandmere), enjoying a life of community activism and leadership, and were frequently spotted hiking back and forth between their home in Wood Run and the Mall. Bob was instrumental in getting Snowmass incorporated as a town, and became the second mayor, serving two terms. Under his direction, Snowmass Village became a thriving, self-directed township. In addition, he served on many community boards including Aspen Valley Hospital and Aspen Camp School for the Deaf.

He was a cherished, loved and respected husband, father, granddad, great-granddad, and friend. Most of all he is remembered for his love of hiking. He and Ruth covered trails all over the world. When Parkinson’s rendered him unable to walk on his own anymore, he turned in his hiking boots, declared his life a great success, and gracefully departed surrounded by friends and family. He will be missed and celebrated at once.