April 22, 1926 - July 16, 2018
Jimmie Spencer, OBC Hon LLD Colonel (Retd)
With heartfelt sadness we announce the passing of Jimmie on Monday July 16, 2018 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-areas- assistance office@cwsaa.org.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Pleasant Valley Dignity Funeral Home, 4303 PV Road, Vernon BC V1T 4M4. Phone 250.542.4333.
Condolences may be offered at pleasantvalleyfh.com.
Pleasant Valley Dignity Funeral Home
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