"Da Godfather," Martin Gallant, Has Died After A Battle With Pancreatic Cancer

Originally posted on SNOWBOARDER | By Josh Sullivan | Last updated Dec 2, 2025 4:12 PM ET

The man who moved west and paved the way for French-Canadian snowboarders has died after a fight with cancer.

Martin Gallant, lovingly known to many as "The Godfather," was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in August 2025, according to a write-up attached to his GoFundMe page. Fellow French-Canadian rider and good friend JF Pelchat talked about Gallant's battle two weeks ago during an appearance on the AirTime Podcast.

Erik Traulsen, the host of the FNRad podcast, revealed the news about Gallant's death on his show, and re-released a 2018 interview he did with Gallant.

Gallant had video parts in Critical Condition, No Evil, Television, Levity, Incoming, and more. He was described as "larger than life." Perhaps the introduction to his GoFundMe page describes him best.

"For any of you who know this man, Martin Gallant, you know his zest for life - his smile for the mountains, snow, surf, waves and sharing that beauty with those around him. You know at least two or three of his stories in his French-Canadian accent, maybe five or six and probably can remember a time he assisted you in getting after your version of a slashhhhh; surf or pow," it said. "You also may have felt his warm heart inviting you to join him in Tofino, Da Cabane, or any one of his many selfless adventures. He lights up big spaces with his generosity and has always created a sense of 'welcome' for whoever is down for the ride. He is a positive, kind, larger-than-life, incredible human being, friend, uncle, brother, and son."

Here's what others in the snowboard world had to say about Gallant:

"Martin lived a life larger than most that seemed to be directed by his huge heart. DCP, Jeff Pelch, Gan Shenu, Emanuel Krebs, Ben Balok, and so many past guests from Quebec have talked about Martin's generous nature and how he was out here before any other French snowboarders, and he loved welcoming everyone and showing them the ropes. When I met Martin, I was struck by his boundless energy, his incredible storytelling ability, and his infectious love for this thing we call snowboarding and for life. Rest easy, Martin. You'll be missed. Thank you for everything you've done for all of us." -Erik Traulsen

"RIP to my friend Martin Gallant…Legendary energy, smiles, stories and feats of extraordinary athletic bravery. I first met him in ‘93 at Tod Mtn when Transworld Snowboard Magazine sent Eric Berger to shoot Martin, Mike Hagar and Shin Campos to ride with me at my home Tod Mtn for an 8pg spread. We also did an urban shoot together in ‘93 at the Montreal University and a graveyard with Bryan Iguchi...It was always a pleasure to ride with or run into him. A legendary bro. He will be remembered and missed by many. Much love to his brother Pascal." - Brett Tippie