In Memoriam
Read about the patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking the In Memoriam page.
In Memorium – Douglas “Doug” Scharbach
Song Mountain Ski Patrol in the Central New York Region of Eastern Division has lost another former patrol leader. Doug Scharbach, who served on the Song patrol for more than 30 years, passed away at his home in Manlius, NY, on November 14, 2024. He was 90.
Doug was the Song patrol leader between 1988 and 1990. He was well respected and known for his low-key demeanor; traits he no doubt developed from his service in the US Navy and later as a manager in the lumber business. It was at one of his jobs that he saved an employee’s life in 1979 using skills learned on the ski patrol. For that action, the NSP awarded Doug a Purple Merit Star, and the Eastern Division bestowed him with its William Gross Memorial Award.
A graduate of the New York State School of Forestry at Syracuse University in 1955, Doug enlisted in the Navy and served as an ensign following Officer Candidate School (OCS). His Naval career placed him as a maintenance officer in two squadrons on and off aircraft carriers on the east coast and on the Mediterranean during the ‘Turkey Crisis’ of 1957-58. He was discharged as a LTJG in 1959 and moved to Norwich, NY, taking a job as assistant sales manager at a lumber company. He became a Deacon at his church, president of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and was instrumental in building a small ski area there called Penguin Peak.
In 1965, he took a new job and relocated to Manlius. He joined the ski patrol, where he used his leadership skills to further enjoyment of skiing and the outdoors. To that end, he also enjoyed sailing, canoeing, hiking, climbing the Adirondack High Peaks, camping, golfing, fishing, and hunting. He loved woodworking, building furniture, and making holiday decorations.
But most importantly, Doug enjoyed his family. A native of Schenectady, he married his childhood sweetheart Lynn and they were together for 69 years. Both would agree that their lives were strengthened and enhanced by membership in their church.
He is survived by Lynn and their three daughters, LeeAnn, Heidi, and Gretchen; five grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; and a sister.
In Memoriam – Peter Landon Hawley
Peter Landon Hawley of New Hartford, CT died on “Kilobyte Day,” October 24, 2024. Even though he loved and understood how digital machines work, Peter would have cared little that his earthly life ended on 1024. He was practical and not sentimental. Peter cared deeply about others and lived for three things: To race, to ski, and most of all, to be helpful to others.
The meetings of the Hartford Track Club, of which he was president for over 20 years, and of the Hartford Marathon Foundation will be a little shorter, without Peter to remember the nuances of the myriad details of conducting a road race.
Peter served on the ski patrol of Ski Butternut for 44 years after college and three years in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. Since 1990, Peter had been a first aid and outdoor emergency care instructor. In 2014, he received the Eastern Division Patroller Achievement Award. His Patrol Director Stew Bartner said Peter was the first to report to work every day that he was on duty with the patrol.
Peter began running at age 35, briefly following in the footsteps of his brother Tim and then soundly beating him for 37 years. Many are the runners who were outkicked to the sound of Peter’s size 12 Brooks Beasts coming out of nowhere.
Peter completed 49 marathons including several in Boston and every Hartford Marathon from the inaugural race in 1996 through 2022. He always helped set up the course, too. He “did” the Mt. Washington Road Race three times and ran probably more than a thousand other races.
We are thankful that he was not hit by a car while training for a marathon before dawn or when crossing the Founder’s Bridge on his bicycle to certify the Hartford Marathon course. And that he fully recovered from the mild stroke he had a few years ago. We are thankful for the many years he was a friend, co-worker, mentor, and brother.
Peter graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional H.S. in 1967. He became an FCC-licensed radio technician, then served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps (graduating first in his class at signal school), and graduated from Wabash College in Indiana. Together with his father and brother, Peter built a house where he lived for 35 years.
At Al’s Seafood, he applied his listening and computer skills to improve processes. As an astute IBM AS400 tech with business knowledge, Peter found a role at Hartford Technologies and worked there until he retired in 2019. Peter volunteered to help the Connecticut Forest and Park Association maintain CT Blue Trails.
Peter was the eldest son of Kathleen Lamphier Hawley and Samuel Seymour Hawley. He was predeceased by his parents, brother John, and sister Karen. He is survived by his brother Tim, nephews Sam and John, niece Kirsten, and many friends in the Butternut Ski Patrol, Hartford Track Club, and Hartford Marathon Foundation.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 16 at Rocky Hill Congregational Church followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Great Mountain Forest Foundation in Norfolk, CT, or volunteering to help the Hartford Track Club conduct a race would be welcomed.
Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on Thurston Rowe Funeral Home’s memorial page and share them with the family.
In Memoriam – Rick Finch
With deep sadness and a very heavy heart, the Titus Mountain Ski Patrol had to say goodbye to fellow patroller Rick Finch. On Thursday, January 18, 2024, Rick was involved in a fatal accident on a ski lift at Titus Mountain while on duty. Rick was loved by all on our patrol and the staff at Titus Mountain who knew him.
Born on November 7, 1955, to George and Virginia Finch, and brother to Vic (Dorothy) Finch, Jim (Gail) Finch, George (Betty) Finch, and Tom (Shirley) Finch. Rick grew up in Clare, Michigan, and had a childhood filled with adventure. He was a musician and athlete – setting the stage for his lifelong love of sports and music.
He married Sherry (Deaton) on September 1, 1979, but they started dating in 1974, so they get credit for a full fifty years of partnership. They both attended Aquinas College and lived in several mid-western towns and cities as Rick pursued his medical education and a career that allowed him to regularly feel the adrenaline rush that he loved. They moved to Malone in 1989 where Rick could combine his love of the outdoors and activity with a career in emergency medicine.
They had two children; a daughter Adria Finch (Patrick Engle) and a son James Finch (Brittnie Finch). He was grandfather to Alesandra Finch (16), Serenity Finch (8), Anderson FinchEngle (6), Lilah Finch (5), and Elin Finch Engle (2). By watching him, Rick’s children and grandchildren learned so much about balancing hard work with the things that bring them joy. Consequently, they have many of the same interests and skills ranging from home improvement projects, to golf, to watching a car race.
Rick was a physician’s assistant in emergency medicine and later became a surgical assistant to local orthopedic surgeons. He was a part of the medical team of the Clarkson University Hockey Team.
Rick joined the Titus Mountain Ski Patrol in 1993. He wore many hats within our organization; as a consultant on our medical review team, lift evacuation instructor, and mentor to many patrollers. Rick also took active involvement with our candidates assisting anyone who needed extra help with ski and toboggan. He enjoyed many activities besides his love of skiing. Rick loved motorcycle riding, tinkering around the house, and spending time with family. He loved a good NASCAR race; and an occasional cold beer.
Titus Mountain honored Rick by having a last radio call. We will never forget you, Rick, and thank you for your service to our organization. You will be missed. May you rest easy, your shift has ended. Rest in peace.
Eastern Division is developing a backpack safety campaign called “Rick’s Rules” to honor Rick and increase safety for all the skiing and riding public.
Read about other patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking In Memoriam in the red bar at the top of the page.
In Memoriam – Regina Frydryk
Regina was called home on May 7, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Ludlow, MA to Edward F. and Evelyn A. (Siarkowicz) Siwicki, Regina grew up in Indian Orchard and married Daniel A. Frydryk on May 9, 1981. They moved to Feeding Hills where they lived the rest of their life together.
She graduated from Cathedral High School, Springfield, MA in 1976. Reg’s career was in the ophthalmology field for 45 years working seven years for Dr W.F. Donohue, Office Manager/COA of 30 years for Dr Larry Litscher, and eight years for Dr Andrew Jusko. She took pride in her profession and formed special bonds with all her patients.
Reggie was an outgoing person who always took the time to help others. She enjoyed music, quilting, dancing, yoga, biking, snorkeling, golfing, hiking, and especially skiing. She was a senior member of the National Ski Patrol for 39 years at Mt Tom, Blandford, and Otis Ridge.
Reg & Dan spent years traveling together to many destinations. One of their favorites was spending time with special friends at the “Amore” house in Eastham, Cape Cod.
Regina was a communicant of Sacred Heart Parish in Feeding Hills and an active member of the St Martha’s Guild. Special thanks to family and friends who supported and cared for Regina during her journey with love and prayers. Gratitude to all the nurses, techs, and volunteers for their kindness at the D’amour Center for Cancer Care and Baystate Hospital.
Reg leaves her lifelong loving husband and soul mate Dan after 43 years of marriage. She leaves her siblings Edward R “Bob” Siwicki, wife Betty of Wilbraham; sister Diane Thompson of Palmer; Brother-in-Law James Frydryk, wife Halina of Indian Orchard; nieces and nephews: Lisa Guertin, (Brad); Shelly Germain, (James); nephew Brian Siwicki, (Keri); Laura Ann Pumiglia, (Brian); Jeffrey Pumiglia; Brenda Thompson; great nieces and nephews: Brianna, Connor, Collin, Zakary, Sydnie, and Samantha, as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Center, 450 Brookline Ave., Boston MA 02215, or Sacred Heart Church 1061 Springfield St. Feeding Hills MA 01030.
Read about other patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking In Memoriam in the red bar at the top of the page.
In Memoriam – Jack Shinn
Jack Shinn, 76, of Clifford, PA, died peacefully on Monday morning, September, 9, 2024, surrounded by his family at the home of his brother Joe. Born September 6,1948 in Monterey, CA, he was the son of the late Dr. John G. & Claire Caffrey Shinn.
Jack was a graduate of Cardinal O’Hara High School, Springfield, PA and attended St. Paul’s College, St. Paul, MN. He was a US Army veteran, serving in Vietnam and the Army reserves, and went on to work as Operations Manager at Mactac in Moosic, PA. After a brief stint working for Squaw Valley Ski Resort Tahoe, California he returned to the area and worked for Jennings Environmental Management, Inc.
His favorite job by far was as an Elk Mountain Ski Patroller, which he did for most of the last 40 years. He was an OEC instructor for 31 of those years and served as an Assistant Patrol Director. An indispensable member of our pro patrol, he managed the first aid room supply orders for many years.
Jack was a devoted brother and uncle, proud father and grandfather, great friend to all who knew him, and a legendary storyteller. He is survived by one loving daughter: Jamie Shinn and husband, Sean Graham; three grandchildren: Matilda Shinn, Nyra Graham, and Mekhi Graham; one sister: Jean Shinn and husband, Mark Silfee; three brothers: Gerard “Gerry” Shinn, David Shinn and wife, Leslie, Joseph “Joe” Shinn and several adoring nieces and nephews and his beloved Caffrey cousins.
He was preceded in death by three brothers: Robert Bobby,” Richard Rick, and Kevin Shinn and two sisters: Diane Shinn-Box and Natalie Shinn.
A memorial service was held Monday, September 16, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. at the Elk Mountain Ski Resort Lodge, 344 Elk Mountain Road, Union Dale, PA, celebrated by Rev. Bonnie Resseguie and with military honors from the U.S. Army.
Cremation arrangements were under the care of the Shifler-Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Clifford, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Elk Mountain Ski Patrol at the above address.
Read about other patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking In Memoriam in the red bar at the top of the page.
In Memoriam – Stanley Wierezbicki, Jr.
Stanley J. Wierzbicki, Jr., 72, of Greenfield Township, PA, died Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Geisinger Community Medical Center, Scranton, PA, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, the former Joyce M. Sidwell Wierzbicki. They were married October 3, 1988.
Born March 21, 1952, in Carbondale, PA, he was the son of the late Stanley J. Sr. and Eva Kura Wierzbicki.
Stan was a graduate of Mountain View High School and earned a degree in carpentry and woodworking from Johnson Technical School. He was the proud owner and operator for 50 years of Wierzbicki Woodworking, LLC, Greenfield Township. He built numerous homes in the area but was mostly proud of the homes he built for his daughters and close personal friends. Stan was a master carpenter and owned and operated a family farm in Greenfield Township consisting of beef cattle.
Most of the community would know him from working on ski patrol for over 40 years at Elk Mountain. For 25 of those years he served as both an OEC and OET Instructor. In April he attended Powderfall for the first time enjoying the camaraderie of meeting patrollers from across the country. His daughter Heather carries on the family tradition as a member of the Elk Mountain Ski Patrol
He enjoyed skiing so much that he took numerous skiing trips to Europe. He was a faithful member of St. John Vianney Parish.
Stan was joyful, dedicated, kind, caring, generous and hardworking. His hobbies included mountain biking, snow skiing, water skiing and furniture making. He had a love for adventure and wanted to experience life to its fullest in every way. Although he worked often, his family meant everything to him and tried to spend as much of his free time with them. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. At the end of a long day, Stan enjoyed a nice glass of red wine with family and friends.
He is also survived by four daughters: Stephanie Trussell and husband, Dwayne of Morgantown, PA, Heather Walters and husband, Mark of Greenfield Township, PA, Barbara Moody and husband, Chuck Heffner of Greenfield Township, PA, and Jennifer Moody of Madison, GA; six grandchildren: Unique, Reina, Bobby, Ryan, Michael, and Christopher; two sisters: Katherine Krenitsky and husband, Jack of New Berlin, PA and Barbara Jones of Virginia; one brother: John Wierzbicki and wife, Mary Helen of Lisbon, ME; and one aunt and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister: Maureen Bartron.
The funeral was held Wednesday, July 10, 2024, from the Shifler-Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 18 Airport Road, Clifford, PA, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Pius X Church, 3615 State Route 106, Royal, PA, celebrated by Rev. Andrew Amankwaa, pastor. Interment was at the Wierzbicki Cemetery, 189 Lee Road, Greenfield Township, PA.
Pallbearers: Mark Walters, Dwayne Trussell, Timothy Krenitsky, Thomas Meagher, Jeffrey Feather, and Charles Mazza. Viewing hours were held Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Stan’s name to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at lls.org or St. John Vianney Parish, 704 Montdale Road, Scott Township, PA 18447.
Read about other patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking In Memoriam in the red bar at the top of the page.
In Memorium – David Kaplan
David Kaplan, 97, of Rhinebeck, died at home on November 8, 2024. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Arlene, after 61 years of marriage. He was attended by his daughter Suzanne and son-in-law Chuck as well as his caregiver David O. Dave leaves behind his daughters Suzanne and Debbie.
Dave was born in New York City. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx and from NYU with a Bachelor of Science in business. Dave took over the ownership and operations of The Kaplan Press from his father and ran a successful printing business until his retirement. He and Arlene then moved full-time to the Hudson Valley.
The outdoors defined Dave and Arlene’s life together. They were active members of the National Ski Patrol, the Professional Ski Instructors of America, the AMC, and the ADK. Dave skied, paddled, and swam into his 90s.
The family thanks everyone who made it possible for Dave to remain at home, including his caregiver, David O., and many friends, neighbors, and ski buddies. They also thank the staff of Hudson Valley Hospice and the volunteers from Meals on Wheels.
There will be no service or visiting hours. Dave will join Arlene among the mountains and waters that sustained their lives. In their honor, take a hike, go for a paddle, or make some turns on your favorite trail.
“Go where you feel most alive.” – A.
Read about other patrollers who have completed their Final Sweep by clicking In Memoriam in the red bar at the top of the page.
In Memoriam – James Harrison
James Richard Harrison, of Dalton, MA passed away on Sunday, September 15th, at age 81. Born on September 12, 1943 in Torrington, CT, he was the second eldest child of Donald and Jacqueline Harrison. He graduated from Dalton High School (MA) in 1961. Jim then enlisted in the Army where he served on a missile site in Wiesbaden Germany, near Frankfurt, as a Technical Sergeant.
After his time in the service, Jim returned to Dalton to work at E.D. Jones Beloit in the pulp & paper machinery industry. His 33+ year career included traveling the world, often spending extended time on jobs. Jim visited every continent and hundreds of countries and cities, with unimaginable airline mileage.
Jim was married for 47 years to Ann Louise Zaorski of Lanesborough, MA. She passed away on May 22, 2013 at the age of 70.
Jim is survived by sons James Stanley and wife Michelle of Phoenix, AZ, son Jeffery Donald and wife Wendy of Chandler, AZ and adopted son, Matt Snow and wife Tina of NC, and their children, Madeline, Emily and Zachary, and his Harrison siblings, Bruce, Duncan, Sandra, Heather, Keith, Kenneth, Timothy and their spouses and extended families. He was preceded in death by wife Ann, parents, Donald and Jaqueline, and oldest brother Malcom.
A 42-year member of the National Ski Patrol, Jim joined the Brodie Mountain patrol in 1979 and remained there until Brodie closed in 2002. He moved on to the Butternut Ski Patrol remaining there until 2022 when he retired because of health issues. Jim loved skiing and while he worked three days a week at Butternut, on his two days off he went skiing at Jiminy Peak.
Jim was very much an outdoors enthusiast, enjoying hiking, skiing, camping, and whitewater rafting. He was also a lover of classic cars, and hot rods. He loved to work with his hands, and restored, or built many antique/classic/muscle cars from the ground up. Jim was always up for a challenge and had the engineering mindset as a great problem solver.
He was a brother, father, friend & mentor to many, and his legacy will carry on through the lives of everyone that he has touched throughout the years.
In more recent years, Jim and his fiancé Kay LaViola of Savoy, have been spending time continuing his hobbies with his cars, traveling to Florida, and taking trips in a motorhome to Maine and other locations, as well as a recent trip to Arizona to go to the mountains with his boys.
James was cremated after death, according to his wishes. A memorial service will be planned and announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Brigham & Women’s Hospital (supportBWH.org) or the Berkshire Humane Society and mailed to Dery-Foley Funeral Home, 890 E. Main St., Dalton, MA 01226.
