Wickski at Mission Ridge

It was a glorious collection of dyed in the wool ski bums, come to pay there respects to one of the leaders of the band.

These are people that "that every important decision I have made in the last 25 years has been about skiing". I heard plenty of stories, some of the best ones twice. 

It was great to be in such good company, to share the good memories. 







Some skinned in from the bottom.



And as will happen when great skiers gather Wicklund Chute will get aired out.







Mission Ridge was incredibly generous with there time and treasure, helping pull off this gathering.  As well as other folks, bringing libation, stories to share, and cards to pass along.





Thanks everyone.

RIP Scott. Looks like a nice gathering.

It was an honor to be in that company. The orange lollypop with "Wicklund Chute" inscribe hit me in the heart. Thanks for the post, Jamie. I read on Scott's facebook page that he considered after some close calls that he had been granted "several bonus rounds. Extra credit." I like that thought.

Really sad, but awesome tribute. Thanks for sharing it Jamie.

Scott, I am a better person having known
you man, I miss u. Much love!!

Thanks Jtack, thought I'd extend this thread with the story I shared at Mission.

A few days after Scott's death, Owen and I headed for the Bride for a day of remembering. This is a special place. The three of us came here together many times. Scott and Owen shared several overnight tours in the past. On one of them, they camped here on the Bride's shoulder. Owen has memorable footage and photos of that trip and I now treasure my DVD copy even more! The approach we call Museum Piece ridge for the beautiful Whitebark pine snags along it. The place is a cathedral, with superb views of Silver Star. This is where I was soloing on Feb 19 last year when I experienced a very odd and mysterious "feeling" flowing through the mountains midday. I chose to return here on the 20th knowing I would not enjoy it, I just needed to be here! I told Scott the full story of that day last Spring when he was first working on recovering from his speed wing crash. I have no doubt that Scott would know where to find Owen & I a few days after his passing.

As we topped the ridge and headed out through the museum, a bald eagle suddenly flew in directly overhead. Eagles are common in the valley here in Winter but not up here among the peaks. This one circled close above us twice and then flew on, soon out of sight. We were both in awe and I think the day took a turn for the better at that point.

I choose to believe that Scott is soaring with the eagles now and I'm sure he won't be crashing anymore. R.I.P. Scott Wicklund.