^{Photo posted on Burton Snowboards website Thursday morning.}

Jake Burton, the founder of Burton Snowboards, is the man responsible for the popularity of snowboarding today. He founded the Vermont-based company out of his barn in 1977 and grew it to become one of the biggest names in the sports world. Burton died of testicular cancer Wednesday night at the age of 65.

John Lacy, the company's co-CEO, said this of Jake in an email to staff members Thursday morning, "He was our founder, the soul of snowboarding, the one who gave us the sport we all love so much... This all happened very suddenly, and it’s a tremendous loss for his family, his friends and all of you.” 

If you've ever strapped on a snowboard, you have this man to thank. R.I.P. to an absolute legend.

It is with a heavy heart that we share that Burton founder Jake Burton Carpenter passed away peacefully last night surrounded by loved ones as a result of complications from recurring cancer. He was the soul of snowboarding, the one who gave us the sport we love. #RideonJake pic.twitter.com/8dChSsm54Y

— Burton Snowboards (@burtonsnowboard) November 21, 2019

RIP Jake Burton. My brother, it was honor to be your friend and fellow survivor. See ya on the other side. #fuckcancer

— Lance Armstrong (@lancearmstrong) November 21, 2019

We mourn the passing of our dear friend, partner and legend Jake Burton. It is because of his passion and vision that the snowboarding playground we all enjoy exists. He will remain in our hearts forever. We extend our condolences to Jake’s family and friends. #RideonJake

— Red Bull in Zero Gravity (@redbull) November 21, 2019

Sad day with the loss of Jake Burton Carpenter who had his factory right here in Londonderry for many years #RIP pic.twitter.com/gkEynxYvXX

— Magic Mountain (@SkiMagicVT) November 21, 2019