November 22, 2006 – March 8, 2026
It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved son, Chase Stewart Kokernak, who died on March 8, 2026, from a tragic ski accident in Alta, Utah.
Born on November 22, 2006, in Palo Alto, California, to Ted and Sharisse Kokernak, Chase brought immense joy to the world and lived life to its fullest. He was a bright and loving presence—a true light in our lives.
From an early age, Chase had a deep love for exploring the natural world. He spent cherished summers at the Stewart Ranch in Pine Valley, Utah, and on Bunganut Pond in Lyman, Maine, where he formed lasting bonds with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and his older brother, Charlie. He was truly in his element outdoors—at one with nature—finding joy in the simple beauty of the world around him.
At home, Chase’s heart was full of love for his animals. His rabbits—Flopsy, Beatrix, Thumper, and Peter—as well as his dog, Shiloh, and his cat, Smokey, were his constant companions throughout his childhood.
Chase demonstrated a strong aptitude for athletics from an early age, beginning swim lessons at just eight months old and later competing with NorCal Aquatics. He also played Little League baseball, where he particularly excelled as a pitcher, and went on to compete in water polo for three years and tennis for two years at Los Altos High School.
Cycling was another passion Chase enjoyed, often riding with his mom and dad up Page Mill Road, through Woodside, and along Old La Honda Road into the majestic redwood forests. These rides were more than exercise—they were moments of connection, adventure, and appreciation for the natural beauty he loved so deeply. Cycling was also his primary mode of transportation, reflecting both his independence and his love of being outdoors.
He also had a deep interest in gaming and technology. Chase built his own gaming computer from the ground up, beginning with a detailed spreadsheet of every component he would need. With patience and care, he assembled it piece by piece, and when it finally came to life, he was thrilled.
On the slopes of Snowbird, Utah, Chase discovered a deep passion for skiing. Beginning at age 4, he developed a love for the sport and, under the instruction of Wolfgang Ruegner, refined his skills and became a member of the Snowbird Ski Team. His love for the mountains ultimately led him to attend the University of Utah, where he was a freshman studying business.
Chase possessed a truly remarkable character. He was never jealous or envious; instead, he recognized and celebrated the uniqueness in others. He spoke often with admiration about the talents—both intellectual and athletic—of his friends, acquaintances, and the teachers he so greatly respected. He saw the strengths in others not as competition, but as something to appreciate and honor. This generosity of spirit defined who he was and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Chase is survived by his parents, Ted and Sharisse Kokernak of Los Altos; his brother, Charlie, and sister-in-law, Charlotte; and his niece, Ruthie, of Portland, Oregon; as well as his grandmother, Joann Stewart, of Los Altos.
A Celebration of Life was held at Alta Mesa Cemetery in Palo Alto, California, and at Our Lady of the Snows in Alta, Utah.
In honor of Chase’s love for the mountains and the natural world, donations may be made in his name to Friends of Alta, whose mission is to protect and preserve Alta’s unique environment, heritage, and character: https://www.friendsofalta.org/donate
