Published: 11:49 BST, 30 August 2026 | Updated: 12:03 BST, 30 August 2026
Swimwear model Paris Ow-Yang's ex-boyfriend had recently quit his special forces role with the US military to embark on a new career protecting international celebrities and the ultra-wealthy.
Rocket Stickney, who died last week aged just 31, spent six years in the elite US Navy SEALs until 2025 when he left the armed forces to join global security firm Gideon Risk Management.
The business describes itself as 'delivering intelligent solutions to complex challenges' and providing 'tailored services to meet your specific needs anywhere in the world'.
'The entire team's deep understanding of international security threats, coupled with their tactical training in high-stakes environments, empowers Gideon Risk to devise customized solutions that are both proactive and reactive,' the company states on its website.
'By drawing on this collective expertise, the team can navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and adapt to evolving risks swiftly and effectively.'
In an August 2025 picture on his private Instagram account, Stickney is seen holding a bottle of Bud Light next to American singer and rapper Post Malone, who has an arm wrapped around him.
Earlier this month, he posted pictures and video of himself flying on a private jet from Washington state to Arizona, shooting a pistol at an indoor range and firing a rifle into a body of water.
Stickney's family, from Sun Valley in Idaho, mourned its 'devastating loss' in a notice published in his hometown newspaper, the Idaho Mountain Express, on Wednesday.
Swimwear model Paris Ow-Yang's ex-boyfriend Rocket Stickney had recently quit his special forces role with the US military to embark on a new career protecting international celebrities and the ultra-wealthy. Ow-Yang and Stickney are pictured in December 2024
Stickney, who died aged just 31 last week, spent six years in the elite US Navy SEALs until 2025 when he left the armed forces to join global firm Gideon Risk Management. He is pictured (centre) superstar singer and rapper Post Malone (right)
'His life reminds us that strength and vulnerability can exist in the same heart,' the family said.
'Rocket was a truly sweet and kind person who was loved by all who knew him.
'His friends and family were an important part of his life and we know how much he meant to so many in our community.
'A celebration of life is being planned, and details will be shared soon. Thank you to everyone in the community for your love, friendship and support during this difficult time. Rocket will forever live in our hearts.'
