Fundraiser underway in memory of snowboarder who died at Big White

Funds are being raised to support the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue team in memory of a snowboarder who died at Big White.

Ryan Fletcher, 42, of Kelowna was snowboarding on Boxing Day, Dec. 26, and was last seen around 1 p.m. before his last run of the day. When he didn’t return, RCMP were notified and a search was launched with Big White Ski Patrol, along with Central Okanagan, Penticton and Vernon search and rescue crews. His body was found on Dec. 27.

“Money raised will be donated to the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue for all the amazing work they do keeping our communities safe and stepping in when the worst-case scenarios occur,” a post to the online fundraiser said.

READ MORE: Snowboarder who died at Big White identified

“Our world lost an amazing man. Ryan took one last run on Biggie and our world became a darker place.”

According to the post, Fletcher lived for adventure and had numerous hobbies such as surfing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, boating and wake surfing, and was known for his easy laid-back attitude.

“Ryan was an avid snowboarder his entire life, he has had a season’s pass at Big White since 1980-something. He wasn’t afraid to face the wild and enjoyed many heli-skiing and cat skiing trips with friends over the years,” the post reads.

To make a donation in Fletcher's memory go here.

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