Esteemed coach, businessman and politician Al Raine passed away on Dec. 14 at the age of 83, leaving a behind a legacy for decades of work in the national ski industry.

Raine served as the mayor Sun Peaks Resort, resigning from the position shortly before his death due to failing health. In a he mentioned a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative condition that leads to paralysis. 

"It was a great privilege to have been mayor of Sun Peaks and work with your elected representatives. Sun Peaks has great potential, and it can be even better if we all look after our guests, count our blessings and continue to make visitors feel special," he wrote. 

Raine is well-known for his involvement in coaching professional athletes and helping transform the Canadian ski industry, but he is also a familiar name at Fernie Alpine Resort. Fernie ski resort developer and former coach Mike Delich said he was saddened to hear of his friend's passing.

鈥淎l was my mentor. He was always willing to share his wisdom and was a role model of a living life well-lived. Al, at age 82, skied 130 days in 2024 and even skied a day two weeks ago at Sun Peaks. I am grateful to have known him and will follow Al鈥檚 positive attitude along the ski trails and paths of life," said Delich.

Raine participated in the 50th Anniversary of Fernie Alpine Resort in 2012, attending the Wall of Fame celebration and meeting up with other ski industry leaders at the 50th Anniversary Forum to discuss future opportunities in mountain communities.

Raine's wife Nancy Greene Raine, founded the national Nancy Greene Ski League for Canadian youth, which has been crucial in helping train young skiers in Fernie.

Raine was born in Vancouver B.C, and began cultivating his dream of becoming a competitive skier as a teenager. In 1962, he left to train in Europe, and later moved to Montreal to coach the Ski Hawks from 1966 to 67. 

From 1968 to 1973, he served as head coach and program director of the Canadian Alpine Ski Team, developing innovative methods to study ski aerodynamics and devising new ways to bring in more funding. One of the most famous Canadian ski teams, known as the "Crazy Canucks" was born as a result of his efforts.

From 1975 to 1980, he was a consultant for the B.C Ministry of Lands and its Provincial Ski Area Coordination, helping plan, develop and execute B.C ski area policy, during which time he did conceptual planning for Whistler Village.

He was later involved with major projects at Big White in Kelowna and Sun Peaks Resort (then known as Tod Mountain). In 1981, he was appointed executive director of Whistler Resort Association, and in 1988 he was inducted into the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame.

A celebration of life is planned for Raine on January 15, 2025 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Sun Peaks Centre.