Castle Peak avalanche victims: Friends, neighbors remember North Bay mom as 'a rockstar'
LARKSPUR, Calif. (KGO) -- We're learning more about the victims of the tragic Castle Rock ski trip, including a Larkspur mother whose friends say was devoted to her family, career and boutique wine business.
"She just said, 'Paul, I have some horrible news for you,"' said Paul Laland.
Laland from Mill Valley still remembers the call he got telling him about passing of Danielle Keatley, one of six friends killed in the Castle Peak avalanche.
"I mean, it's a sucker punch when I got the message," he added.
Paul is a longtime friend, colleague and mentor to Keatley, who worked in the Biotech field in the Bay Area.
"In my book, she is a rockstar, a silent rockstar, shy but charismatic. Her laughter, I can hear it, she had a great sense of humor," said Laland.
Castle Peak avalanche: What we know about 6 moms among 9 skiers presumed dead
Paul describes his friend as a devoted wife and mom to her two young kids - he met Danielle for coffee just days ago.
"As per usual, we talked about the mountains, which she absolutely loved. I've skied with her at Palisades, she kicked my butt, a great skier," Laland said.
Danielle was VP of investor relations and corporate communications at Structure Therapeutics in San Francisco. CEO Ray Stevens, posting a message on the company's website:
"Her spirit and passion inspired me and the many Structure colleagues who spent time with her each day."
In 2016, Danielle and her husband, Dave founded Keatley Wines, a boutique producer in Healdsburg. According to their website, the venture was a way to learn about California's potential to craft the next generation of great wines.
"Oh, I'm just so sorry," said Kathy Cummins.
MORE: Investigation of deadly Castle Peak avalanche to review whether criminal negligence played a role
Cummins is the Keatley's neighbor.
"I probably know her kids more, I see them, people walk by all the time," Cummins said.
In a statement, Larkspur's Mayor, Stephanie Andre told ABC7 Eyewitness News:
"The Larkspur community is mourning the loss of Danielle Keatley. Danielle was a radiant, beautiful soul. She was warm, kind and exuded a special quality that drew people to her, we are heartbroken for Danielle's family and friends."
"I want to provide condolences to her family, just can't imagine what they're going through and the other victims too," Laland said.
The victims' families are requesting privacy.
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