Brother Dave:

I was delighted to learn of your recent gift of a “rocking ski-lift chair.”

There are so many of us busting with pride because of your longevity despite a Quadruple Bypass!

Pilgrim, you have come a long ways. You survived your military experience, your paramedic career and your life long love of skiing. You are a survivor. There is just not a lot of retired paramedics out there and you are one of the few I know. Plus, you still look good on TV. Bravo man, Bravo...

You always encouraged me to return to downhill skiing. But, with my kids, cross-country was a fiscally driven choice. However, being retired, I now ski at small ski area on the western slopes of Colorado—Powderhorn Ski Area. A place where I have skied with all six of my grandchildren.

I took up downhill skiing again. At 56 years old, I got old man ski lessons and a season pass. Sense then, I have skied most of every winter on the weekdays, I am still skiing. This form of winter recreation has lead me to loosing one of my ACL’s—my 7yr old granddaughter and I where hit from behind while we stood in line at the bunny hill lift. I was the only one hurt. Two years later I hit a tiny puddle of water and the fun barrier at the same time. When I came to, I had a fractured clavicle, a fracture pelvis and the Cellphone in my parka pocket broke three ribs. Yes, I slid down the slope in that “oh no” orange toboggan. It was very humbling. The next year I broke the other collar bone while I was chaperoning an elementary school ski day.

I now wear a bright orange safety vest and a good helmet that looks like a watermelon. On the slopes, I am known as “Melon Man.” Last winter’s skiing was uneventful, beautiful and wonderful.

Brother, I believe the last time I saw you was at your sweet wife’s funeral. It truly was a gathering of love. I remember how sweet your wife was and she always found reason to say hello to all of us in the firehouse. She inspired me and others by her bravery as she battled that tenacious cancer. I remember also your son and his partner in their matching rose colored shirts. They both spoke so elegantly of your wife, of you and of your community of friends and family.

And your house caught fire

Brother Dave, I want to add my voice to the chorus of your friends and family who are now congratulating you at this milestone of 60 years with Alyeska Ski Area Ski Patrol. “My god” that is a long time of caring for those of us who are prone to break the fun-barrier, often, on skis.

You are an angel Dave. You have long ago earned your wings. You are not forgotten. I am very proud of you and of your life’s accomplishments.

Well done brother.  Your pal, Jim Kenshalo.

Mr. Skitt was a collector of Fur Rondy pins for several years. From our family at Fur Rondy to yours we express our sincerest condolences and want you to know we will miss David very much!  

~ Fur Rondy Staff