November 13, 2009 (Mazama, WA) – Sean McCabe, a 46-year-old resident of Mazama, passed away on November 7, 2009, from undifferentiated anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid. He is survived by his wife, Laura (Olympian and Long-Time Factory Team Athlete), and daughters, Novie (7) and Dashe (3), his mother and eight siblings, Laura’s parents and four siblings, in-laws and nieces and nephews. His presence and spirit will continue to be felt well beyond the Cascades.

Sean felt his gifts as an artist, a teacher, and amazing athlete came to him through God’s hand. It was with his gift of openness, understanding, and God’s will, that enabled him to share his talents with others. Those who knew him or knew of him understood this was how he pursued his whole life. He married his best friend and partner in all things on August 26, 1989. Together they began a life of skiing, climbing, and teaching in Utah and moved to the Methow Valley in 1995 to continue their life dreams.

His teaching is best known by the students, parents, and fellow educators that have honored him with numerous teaching awards including Teacher of Year in Utah and Washington. He received the prestigious Catalyst Award in 2000 which was a precursor to his national recognition in 2002 with The Milken Family Foundation Award. His legacy lives on with his students, those that have pursued artist endeavors, athletics, and those who still use the lessons learned in daily life. His artwork will continue to inspire us. Sean’s vision lives on in his painting, prints, and in his graphic designs found on clothing and in periodicals.

Let us celebrate a life lived purposefully and with a zeal and love we can all hope to extend into our lives. His memorial will be on Sunday, November 15, 2009, at Liberty Bell High School at 1:30 P.M.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Methow Valley Education Foundation for the Sean McCabe Art Scholarship P.O. Box 3056 Winthrop WA 98862 and/or to Little Star Montessori School P.O. 608 Winthrop, WA 98862.