James Spencer

surrounded by his loved ones. He left this life in the same manner in which he lived,

gently and peacefully. He leaves to mourn his wife Andy, sons Iain (Karen) and David

(Laura), and daughters Lyndy (Tony), Kimmie (George [deceased]) and Emma (Thule).

His many grandchildren and great grandchildren have lost a loving and wonderful

Grandpa and Papa.

A son of Scotland, Jimmie served in the British Army for 32 years. After surviving

World War II in the Royal Regiment of Artillery, he continued his service in Austria,

Germany and the UK. During this time he perfected his skiing skills in his beloved

Austrian Alps. He competed internationally as well as in the 1952 and 1956 Olympic

Winter Games. This great love for snow sports guided him on the path that eventually

led him to Canada. He was a leader and mentor to all regardless of rank. He was a

‘mucker’ to his close friends. His passion for life and his career was evident.

His second career as President and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association also

spanned 32 years. He was instrumental in guiding the development of the industry

with wisdom and insight.

Remarkable, Storied, Legendary, Monumental, Pillar, Leadership, Inspiration, Epic,

Amazing Mentor are but a few adjectives that his peers have used to describe some

of his many outstanding qualities. In 2011 he was inducted into the Canadian Ski Hall

of Fame for his immeasurable dedication to the sport he loved.

Jimmie was a remarkable man, a loving and wonderful husband, father, grandpa and

great grandpa, brother and uncle; a leader, soldier, skier and friend. Always known as

a true gentleman and gracious host he enjoyed sharing a wee dram with friends. He

will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the first responders and paramedics

and to the doctors and nurses at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, particularly in Emergency

and on the 7th Floor. Your skill and compassion were second to none.

At his request there will be no funeral. A gathering in honour of Jimmie will be held

in the Spring of 2019, at SilverStar Mountain, where no doubt a dram or two will be

raised. Details to be confirmed.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Jimmie’s name to the Vernon Jubilee

Hospital Foundation, www.vjhfoundation.org/ways-to-give/donate/ or the Canada

West Ski Areas Association - Small Areas Fund https://cwsaa.org/policy/small-areasassistance

[email protected].