Legendary skateboarder Robbie Mckinley, one of the original Grind King skate team members, has passed away. He pioneered modern-day skateboarding, and his contributions will be remembered for years.
RELATED: Join Skate Legend Robbie McKinley’s Celebration of Life & to Say Final Goodbye
McKinley was one of the founding members of Society, which was established in the 90s. The team quickly became one of the most influential skateboarding teams in the world, and McKinley was a key contributor to its success.
Throughout his career, McKinley was known for his daring and innovative approach to skateboarding. He landed the switch frontside heel at UCLA and nailed the 360 flip over the Chaffey block, which made core skateboarders talk about it for years since there were no social media back then, and all about word of mouth.
News of McKinley's passing has sent shockwaves through the skateboarding community. Many of his peers and fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to his legacy and share memories of his life and career.
McKinley will be remembered as a true pioneer of modern skateboarding, and his influence on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come.
In Loving Memory of Robert "Robbie" McKinley, Stephanie Witowski is organizing the GoFundMe fundraiser on behalf of his sister Jennifer Geckas.
The GoFundMe states. "It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Robert "Robbie" McKinley, a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. On Tuesday, March 28th, 2023, a young, vibrant soul with a passion for skateboarding, a contagious smile and the ability to always make everyone laugh, left this Earth far too soon. He was an energetic man who had love for his family, friends, the beach and his skateboard."
"My name is Jennifer (McKinley) Geckas and it is with great sadness and urgency that I make this GoFundMe in loving memory of my late brother, Robbie McKinley." She said. "By now, many are aware of the unexpected and untimely passing of Robbie."
She added. "While my family and I please ask that you respect our privacy regarding the cause of his passing, we are reaching out to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Robbie – through work, skateboarding, friendship or just paths crossing – to please help us out in our biggest time of need."
"Robbie moved to Hawaii a few months ago to explore life on the island and get away from the day-to-day grind in California." Her sister explained. "Now, we are faced with the unexpected financial burdens of trying to get Robbie back home for his final farewell."
"All of our family lives on the East coast of the United States and unfortunately don't have the funding immediately available to get to Robbie in Hawaii." She mentioned. "We are finding out that it is also significantly more difficult to handle affairs regarding funeral homes, transportation of Robbie, cremation, even obtaining a death certificate without being there to discuss these sensitive matters in person. Any donations will go towards the cost of my mother getting to Hawaii, getting Robbie home and any funeral/memorial costs."
"While we know that times and finances are tough for everyone these days, we appreciate any donations that you can provide." She said. "If you are unable to donate, we also appreciate your thoughts and prayers while we grieve this unimaginable loss."
Please donate now if you are able here.