Terje ‘Valfar’ Bakken was the founder and leader of the Norwegian black metal band Windir. He was known for blending traditional folk music with black metal. Sadly, in 2004, he died at the young age of 25 after getting lost in a snowstorm. Let’s take a closer look at the life, music, and tragic end of Valfar.
Terje ‘Valfar’ Bakken’s Cause of Death
According to Phoenix New Times, Bakken’s life ended in the winter of 2004. What should have been a routine walk to his family’s cabin turned fatal.
Valfar embarked on a trek to his family’s cabin at Fagereggi on January 14, 2004. Metal Underground reported that concern grew among his family members when he didn’t arrive at his destination. Local authorities became involved. The search ended three days later when searchers discovered his body at Reppastølen in the Sogndal Valley.
Blabbermouth documented the band’s official statement about the events: “When he realized that he would not be able to reach the cabin, he tried to make his way back down. Unfortunately he did not make it. Terje was found just above Reppastølen.”
Forensic evidence confirmed hypothermia as the cause of death. The severe weather conditions and deep snow made the journey far more dangerous than anticipated.
Who Inherited Terje ‘Valfar’ Bakken’s Wealth?
Valfar was laid to rest at Stedje Church in Sogndal on January 27, 2004. Windir broke-up around two months after his passing. His estate passed to his immediate family following standard Norwegian inheritance laws, as no other arrangements were documented.
