MARK STEGALL
1963-2011
Late March,
2011:
It is with great sadness to report
that Mark Stegall, our long-time head snowboard coach, has passed away.
Mark Stegall was more than a camp coach and park manager for MHSSC. He
was an enthusiast of shredding, passing on his enthusiasm, passion,
skills and love for the sport to all who approached. He gave his
personal time to helping others achieve what they aspired for, and what
they feared. Mark has managed MHSSC's park for quite some time now, and
he worked his ass off at every corner of our camp. From building our
skate ramps, all our park features, to driving one camper all the way to
the coast to share some surfing knowledge for a day. He was a selfless
man who gave his heart for our shredding youth.
~Jasper Newton
MARK STEGALL FACEBOOK
Thank you all for your very kind words about Mark. We
always knew he was an amazing guy, but I know my parents
will really appreciate hearing what you are sharing. It
has not sunk in yet. I am heading to Tahoe tomorrow.
Will share more info as I have it.
~Lisa Stegall
Too many memories... today I am thinking
about the first ski trip he and i ever went on. Heck,
for Texas kids, we'd hardly ever seen snow before. We
woke up, got our skis, took a half day lesson and he was
off. Every day, he was the first g...uy
up and on the slopes and the very last person in from
the day of skiing. He was a natural and grinning from
ear to ear all day. On the way home from Red River, NM
he said, " I'm going to live in the mountains when I
grow up." By golly he did, and he never looked back.
I'll have to search for a photo of him then. He must
have been 14, with long curly hair and a face full of
freckles still. Basically adorable and rebellious. He
loved the freedom and he was graceful from the start.
Makes me smile to think of...
~Susan Stegall Eve
BMX was his first
love... later came
skate boards, then
jet skis, then
skiing, then
snowboarding,
surfing, wake
boarding...
basically anything
with a board. He used to spend his
after school time at
the local bike shop.
Every bike place
around knew him on a
first name basis.
The year he
desperately wanted
the Apple Crate
bike, he begged and
begged for it for
Christmas. My funny
Dad put an actual
apple crate under
the Christmas tree..
Mark saw it, thought
there had been some
sort of big mis-communication
and burst
into tears.
Little did he know,
but the real bike
was just around the
corner to save the
day. He was on that
bike constantly...
jumping curbs,
building ramps and
flying off. I
recall him riding
down the street
looking at my Mom
and calling out,
"Look Ma' no feet."
The next pass, he'd
call out, " Look Ma'
no hands!" The next
pass, he'd call out,
"Look Ma', no
brain!" then he'd
crack up
laughing....
~Susan Stegall Eve |
Mark... You inspired me, coached me, and were a friend
to me through it all. We will miss you down here,
snowboarding has lost a loyal soldier, and we have all
lost a great friend. I'll be shreddin turns for you
today. RIP old buddy.
~Chris Hargrave
i remember my first week of coaching at camp and i was
so nervous standing on the hill next to the other
coaches. mark was standing next to me and he told me not
to worry and that it was ok to be nervous, it meant that
i cared...always remembered
~Colleen Pruss
Mark.... WE LOVE
YOU!!! I'm thankful for all of the seasons we got to
share. Definitely the nicest guy out there. Thank you.
You're positive ..... EVERYTHING will inspire for
generations to come.
~Derek Eudaly
Mark was
an inspiration. One of the best coaches at camp. He was
always excited to help other riders improve their
skills. You could tell that he was doing what he loved,
and enjoying every minute of it!
~Bill Whalley
Mark you will be missed by so many that you have
effected throughout your years on and off the slopes. u
are an inspiring guy. camp willl never be the same
without you. may your spirit ride on.
~Alex Rapice
I spent much
of my childhood traveling and shredding with mark. He
was like a father to me in many ways. I may have turned
out quite different if not for his influence in my life.
His spirit will always be with me when i ride and he
will never be forgotten in my life or in the sport of
snowboarding. RIP Mark. You are greatly missed.
~Sara Stewart
RIP Mark, camp will
never be the same without you buddy. you were a great
guy to snowboard with and to learn from, and were an
inspiration to many.
~Chris Fellner
To
endless powder lines where ever you are, may the shred
be with you old friend. you changed a lot of peoples
lives and will be missed. LONG LIVE THE POWER STANCE
~Jonathan Winslow
I hope you got to hear about Ruby winning the state
championships! your legacy lives on through the pretty
turns of those you taught. I got a hand drag back three
for you today buddy!
~James Brumfield
RIP mark,
i'll be missing you and pulling those clean backside
spins that i could not have learned without you at camp!
~Chris Ralph
The signature Stegall mute grab will always be in my bag
of tricks thanks to you. You are loved and will be
greatly missed.
~Nikki Anderson
RIP mark, you were an unreal guy to chill
snowboard and skate with. never going forget the times
at hood we had with you
~Daniel Mondou
Much love, the power stance will always be with me, and
passed down to future shredding generations. Thank you
for everything you did for me, you will be missed.
~Ryan Anderson
RIP was
my favorite coach i ever had..
~Trevor Standen
Make the eternal glory turns, Mark
~Nathaniel Goodman
Mark you
will be missed. Your commitment to the camp was second
to none.
~Bill Toney
Mark has been
my best friend for so long... after is career in Pro Jet
Skiing, I told him about USASA & coaching-Bleeeedat- one
of my best friends is gone???? OMG!!!! im fucking
shattered rt now :( He did so much for me- feed me-
gave me a job when everyone pushed me away- put a roof
over my head- gave me a ride everyday- my early season
riding patterner.
~Shawn Wayne Craddick
Mark, you had a major influence on
hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of snowboarders. I
will miss you friend...
~Robin Cressy
We will all be thinking of you with every perfect turn!
Jared McCrum
RIP
Mark.... This powder day I will slash for you....
Luke Wendel
Mark you were always so funny and inviting, I loved
talking with you at dinner every night at camp and you
just loved what you did and the kids. You will be
missed!
~Rachel Hausmann
So sad and
hard to grasp that these people are gone. I believe I
was there for Mark's first year at camp. I liked him
immediately. Just felt from the start that he was a good
and warm person. I'll remember him very fondly.
~Allison White
How sad!!!! He was so nice :("
~Ericka Santamaria
Sad story.
This world lost an awesome person and a huge influence
to A LOT of young boarders.
~Michael Bachkanji
this was the first BMW Mark had. Bought and
completely rebuilt just after the 240Z.Also in
photo is Lisa. :) ~Susan Stegall Eve |
So sad. Mark was a great guy and a true friend. He will
be sorely missed.
~Brian Robb
Hardest working guy at camp. Few other
coaches or councilors would even think about giving up
their weekends off to drive all the way to the coast for
surf camp. I'll always remember him in his spot at the
staff table in the Lodge, every morning sitting there on
his Mac eating breakfast.
~Spencer Raymond
I'll never forget Stegall and his awesome
truck. He was a man with admirably unique style and he
followed his passions till the end. The epitome of a
cool dude.
~Emily Longfield
I can't even believe
this is true. I will never forget you Mark. You were an
inspiration and such a good true person. You always
supported me and helped me even when you didnt need to.
Summer will never be the same. He always had this
whistle, woop woop he would call out when he'd see me.
Mark helped me in so many ways. He had such a good heart
and opened it to so many people. Thank you for all you
did for us, thank you for being you. You are loved and
will be deeply missed.
~Megan Ginter
Mark was pro at
life..... RIP buddy
~Jay Belanger
Despite
the adversity I faced at camp, Mark always had a smile
and a kind word for me. He advised me to love what I do
and don't worry about anything else, and set the example
every day. He made my experience much more enjoyable by
being my pal, and I'll never forget that. Ride in Peace
Mark!
~Elle Dorado
Mark taught me everything I know about boardercross. He
was a great coach and will be greatly missed.
~Katie Talda
Mark was
both a helluva guy and a helluva coach - he is and will
be missed dearly. I could never thank him enough for the
patience and unselfishness he continually demonstrated
in coaching our daughter Katie...
~Tim Talda
Mark was one of the best coaches and best snowboarders I
have ever known. he literally helped me from square one
with turns to tuning. you will forever be missed.
~Maya Hoffman
Did not take much
snow to fascinate
and motivate Mark.
Out of an inch, he
could create loads
of fun... even in
flat ol' Dallas,
Texas.
~Susan Stegall Eve |
Mark and
I started at mhssc the same week back in 1998 and he was
my first roommate at camp sharing a condo with Mike and
Lynne At golden poles before the lodge opened. He was
one of the adults who showed a young kid that the snow
industry could be a real career and no matter how old
you are you can still be a kid at heart. Mark's
influence changed the course of my life and I will
always be thankful for that.
~Tim Feeney
Words can't express how much I'll miss this guy. He was
one of the most genuine, passionate people I'd ever met,
and I really enjoyed his daily stop in Govy after
snowboarding at Hood over the past 10 years. I'd always
look forward to hearing about his stories, advice, and
goals. His commitment and drive to want to snowboard
every day and help those wanting to learn is so
admirable. Mt. Hood summers will not be the same without
him. Cheers to Mark!
~Sally Butler
Summer
loses another smiling face. Snowboarding loses a
passionate supporter and fan. Mark Stegall, may you rip
up heavens terrain park with some serious talent chasing
you down. This last chair ride is for anyone hurting
from this tragic loss. NEVER FORGET!
~Mike Estes Lori Scarbrough
I am at a loss for words. You are missed so much
already.
~Angela Denise Dore
Mark Stegall
was my first coach and influence into snowboarding. He
was the best coach I could have asked for when I was a
micro, I will always cherish the times I spent with him,
and his style was always flawless. Stegall airs for
days!
~Dash Kamp
Mark, great friend, coach and selfless
man. I will never forget you my brother. Your memory
will live on through the countless people you touched.
The sky opened up and dumped on us today. Every turn was
for you! With love.
~Darren Owen
Mark was one of the many coaches at MHSSC
that taught me and all the athletes he worked with to
push themselves. He inspired confidence in others, all
while having fun. He will be remembered for all the
people he helped along the way. RIP
~Scott Carlis
I miss you so much already. Who am I going to text when
I pass by Boring, Oregon? Who is going to help me surf?
Who is going to be there every time I drive by camp? Who
is going to get all my jokes? Who is going to get
There's sand everywhere? I miss you so much. This is
Unreal.. From the moment I met you, we were friends. You
r one of those soul friends. Rest in peace forever. You
are such a good friend. I wish I could just hang out
with you again :(
~Dana Bakkensen
Two feet of
fresh this morning...Mark this day is for you. Your
spirit lives on. Love,
~Alex Kollar
I could always count
on Mark; when he said he would, he did and what he did
counted for all of us. You will be sooooo missed. A life
well lived leaves behind beautiful memories...rest well,
Mark.
~Lynne Annett
Mark was
a great guy and staple at MHSSC. There will be a major
void that will never be filled. I hope you're forever
shredding, Mark.
~Polly Hopkins
Thanks Mark for all you did for snowboarding.
~Dave Sanborn
Mark will be missed greatly by all who
knew him. He was always so kind, energetic, and
passionate about what he did. He loved teaching young
riders how improve their riding and he always so patient
with them. I will always remember his huge smile,
loving heart, and passion for the outdoors. With love,
~Arielle R.
Endless turns my friend. Some of my finest days of
riding were with you. Love you bro'.
~Lyn Brede
He was an
icon of MHSSC and he was such a wonderful person. He
treated EVERYONE fairly and he was always a positive
person regardless of what has happened to him. I hope
he is shredding and showing his signature chill
mentality up there...
~Ryohei
I have so many fond memories of Mark Stegall. He was always positive, smiling and laughing – I love that. We were neighbors when we both lived on Schweitzer Mt, ID. I bought a condo up there, and then Mark moved in next door shortly after. We had some great times kicking back at my pad, just watching the snow dump down, checking out snowboard vids & gearing up to catch first chair the next morning. He was so kind, handing out used gear to me when he could. I would try to hook him up with something in trade, whenever I could… :] We both worked at Ski School with “Mountain Riders”, and he was so patient when my pathetic butt showed up late and partied out. He taught me so much about better turns and riding style. We both taught kids what we knew about hitting jumps and rails. I was so stoked when I saw him spin a sweet 540 off a jump, just a few years ago. I thought, “I want to rip like that, when I am his age…” I talked to him on the phone up at Mt. Hood just in May 2010. He could not ride that day, but it was awesome to hear his voice. Thank you Mark for being such a great friend, riding buddy and good neighbor – you had a huge positive influence on my life. -DK
- 1 more tribute 2 Mark "Steven
Stegall"...because he would want us 2 laugh & smile
& continue ripping every day...TRUE STORY: Mark told
me that when he lived in Dallas, or some place down
South, he used to race jet skis on a Pro circuit. I
thought that was pretty sweet 2 start with. Then, he
told me that he went 2 a race in like FL, and he got
2 race vs. Vanilla Ice! I guess that after V-Ice had
his mad hit songs (or was that 1 hit... :), he tried
his luck on the Pro Jet Ski circuit. I told Mark he
was basically my new hero...not only did he meet THE
VANILLA ICE...he smoked him in a jet ski race. We
laughed 4 days about that 1...& I was like, "That is
so rad"
~Dave Kirkland
Thanks, Mark, for living your life so
fully. What an incredible person...an intregal part of
the MHSSC family. Whenever I needed something...be it
snowboarding advice or coaching tips, a lift, an extra
hand, a good story...you could deliver 110%. Gonna miss
hearing about your crazy winters and bumping into you at
random mountains. MHSSC won't be the same without you,
but it will always better because you were there. Your
legacy and influence will definitely continue in my own
riding and so many others. Thank you!!!!
~Anjuli Crocker
Mark Stegall. What a great friend. Great coach,
snowboarder, and such a positive influence to so many. I
had the privilege to work and ride with Mark for many
years at Mt. Hood, and it was great times that I will
always remember. It is so devastating to hear about our
loss. Mark, we will always love you!
~Timothy Bigtim Douglass
When I
moved to north Idaho 10 yrs. ago, I was pretty new to
the whole snowboarding scene. I used to teach with Mark
at Schweitzer and he used to bring me to the park. He
always created this awesome learning environment, making
everyone feeling comfy and stoked. He would try and
teach me 360's over and over and over agin. Mark, I am
STILL working on them 360's......xo.
~Kristy Overman
It took me years to finally meet Mark, although we ran
in similar circles. The two of us had a great time (not)
working for Mount Baker ski school and getting our asses
handed to us in the banked slalom a couple years back.
You will be missed.
~Rt Congdon
This is
truly tragic... Mark was one of the friendliest faces on
the mountain, helping countless riders (and wannabe
riders like me) learn and love the best sport on earth.
Hope he's shreddin' the gnar in heaven right now...
~Cara Rudio
I remember a time this past summer when Mark was
teaching a boy with autism how to snowboard for the
first time. Mark was so nice to him and took his time to
enjoy being with him on and off the hill. He eventually
got the boy to land his first 50-50 on a box, and the
kid had the biggest smile on his face from what Mark
helped him learn. This is a memory I will never forget.
Mark, you were an amazing person and an inspiration to
all, there is a void left in this world that cannot be
filled, RIP.
~Chris Ralph
Mark you
will be missed. Thank you for your positive influences
in the snowboard industry. May your memory live forever.
~Randa Shahin
RIP Mark - The energy you gave people on and off the
snow was absorbed by everyone around you... Forever
remembered as one the the benchmarks of snowboarding,
you'll me missed my friend.
~Alexander Markellos
Thanks
Mark for all you did for snowboarding.
~Dave Sanborn
Two feet of fresh this morning...Mark this day is for
you. Your spirit lives on.
Love, ~Alex Kollar
Mark
buddy! I wish I would have told you this before you
passed, but thanks so much for all you have done for me
and my snowboarding. From being my coach when I was in
High School to being a friend at all the races, thank
you. Miss you!
~Pat Holland
I always said Mark was the best snowboard coach I knew,
plus he taught me more on my skis than anyone else. He
was a true pro.
~Terry McLeod
I
remember one time when Mark spent like 2 hours trying to
teach me how to land a jump on a snowboard (while I was
supposed to be ski race training on the groomed lanes up
top). Those who know me realize the significance of that
statement: I SUCK on a snowboard. Yet he really,
actually tried to teach me. Over and over. Patiently. I
can say with certainty that there aren't many other
people in the world who would do that. I can't imagine
how many people learned to love snowboarding because of
Mark's patience and dedication. Any other coach would
have told me to quit kidding myself and go train with
the rest of the spandex-clad racer punks. ;P Thanks,
Mark!
~Cara Rudio
I will forever remember Mark's other-wordly commitment
to serve others at camp. My fondest memories were the
countless afternoons spent building boxes, NEVER-ending
repairs on the halfpipe, and most of all riding down the
access road in the bed of his old tacoma pickup. Mark,
you made everyone around you happy to be alive. Wish you
endless turns!
~Ian James
|
Mark was
both a helluva guy and a helluva coach - he is
and will be missed dearly. I could never thank
him enough for the patience and unselfishness he
continually demonstrated in coaching our
daughter Katie... |
|
Mark and I
had this joke where we would pretend to be
tourists and take totally posed pictures
flashing a peace sign. This is at shortsands on
the oregon coast. I will miss his sense of
humor. We always had such good times hanging
out. I felt like I could talk to him about
serious life stuff, but also crack up laughing
over silly random stuff. It is awesome to see
how many lives he has touched, because he made a
lasting impact on mine, with his down to earth
attitude and passion for board sports. This is
really hard and I wish I could say goodbye to
him one last time. I'm sending my love and good
thoughts out to everyone who is missing him
right now. |
I'm gonna miss you around the mhssc
campus. You always had a super positive outlook about
everything and this summer is gonna be weird without
ya. Shred
some sick lines in heaven for me.
~Alex Brewster
When I moved to
north Idaho 10 yrs. ago, I was pretty new to the whole
snowboarding scene. I used to teach with Mark at
Schweitzer and he used to bring me to the park. He
always created this awesome learning environment, making
everyone feeling comfy and stoked. He would try and
teach me 360's over and over and over agin. Mark, I am
STILL working on them 360's......xo
~Kristy Overman
Mark, thank you for touching my life. I carry you with
me. I'd say rest in peace, but i want you to be killin'
it wherever you are!
~Molly McCarthy
RIP Mark - It was a great pleasure knowing & riding with
you. My heart goes out to everyone you touched and
influenced both in life and sports. You will be missed.
xx
~Layla Maxime
|
Mark and my
husband, Adam Neil, always switched it up in
Boardercross. The best of comrades, as Adam said
last week, "Boardercross will never be the same
without Mark "chasing" me". And then a HUGE
laugh as we can all see that Mark DID chase him,
caught him and then finished him off! |
Mark was the best snowboarding coach Ive
ever had, his way of teaching was remarkable, camp just
wont be the same RIP going to miss ya bro
~Bobby Stevenson
I remember Mark being my coach 10 years ago the first
time I went to camp. He was a great person on and off
the slopes and I really learned a lot from Mark. Mark
will be missed a ton and I am thankful for the
enthusiasm he had for the industry and the many places
he told me I have to ride before I pass on. Riding with
Mark and chillin' in Govy gave me so much more respect
for snowboarding and he helped me love the sport more
than I already did. At least he died doing what he loved
in life and we can be thankful for that.
~Dan Hayward
You
brought about a worldwide smile to whoever was lucky
enough to meet you Mark. I feel lucky to have had you in
my life RIP
~Billy Mann
I taught snowboarding at Schweitzer with Mark. i ll
never forget sitting on chair 1 in deep conversation
about JRR Tolkien books. he loaned me the silmarillian
and explained how middle earth came to be. he taught me
so much on and off the snow. he was a great friend and
will be missed.
~Anthony J Powell
Coach
Stegall, thank you for inspiring me to do exactly what i
love, for as long as i can do it. Although we have
spoken very little compared to your relationship with
others, you have impacted my life forever. You were the
true image of someone who pursues exactly what he loves.
Shred in peace man, i know you will be doing everything
you love, as nothing would ever stop you from that. You
will be missed, and you will never be forgotten.
~Nathan Dye
So many memories...So many years. While it is evident
of the impact you left on the your snow family, I will
never forget the countless hours spent In Oklahoma
during your summers here wakeboarding after we both quit
racing on the water. Your mellow and floaty style on
the water was just one way you let the world know how
you rolled. Thanks for all of the great memories, great
friendships and positive vibes you shared with us summer
after summer "back home".
~Gene Daniel
This is
truly sad. I remember taking a run out on zig zag and
seeing the snowboarders leaving with Rick. Mark had
stayed behind with one of the campers in my room, who
was scared and crying. I said hi to the both of them,
offering any help, Mark had it under control. Back at
camp that night I asked the camper who Mark was with
earlier how his day was. He told me how awesome zig zag
was, and how Mark taught him how to drop the cornice. I
know when I saw the camper he was not having such a good
day. Mark was able to turn his campers day from a not
so good to an excellent one. This is just one example
of one camper on one day, and I know there are so many
others out there. Shred in Peace Mark.
~Matt Chirico
Mark helped us out
in the summers at are dealership. He taught us
watercraft, ATV & motorcycle safety. You will be so
missed Mark!
~Danny Wilson w/Roadhouse Motorsports, Tulsa
Mark was man, camp wont be the same.
We'll keep mhssc the best and friendliest park on the
mountain for you boss. Rest in pow
~Kevin Malone
i am a cousin of marks and i would like to take the
liberty to thank everybody for their comments - we grew
up together in dallas - there are many memories - one of
my favorite is playing sea hunt (a tv show at the time)
in the pool of his home - mark was a great guy to hang
out with - i always enjoyed his company from tot to
adulthood - our family has lost a great man, friend, and
spirit - rest my dear - until we meet again - my love
always... cousin janet aka gator
~Janet Davis
I cannot
tell you what these comments & stories mean to our
family. Thank you, thank you, thank you. We are planning
some type of memorial, details to come.
~Lisa Stegall
Last I saw Mark
was at National's one year ago at Copper. He was in his
element, in his happy place...coaching, riding and
loving the sport of snowboarding. Bottom of the BX
course mingling with the racers. He helped my boys
greatly while in Telluride. I am so shocked & saddened.
Much love and strength to you and your family.
~Jon Siegel
Mark,
when i think of you I remember a very kind and good
hearted person, that was never too cool to talk to you,
like some others i have met around Govy. Also I will
never forget how you took me to the Motocross trek and
let me ride your dirt bike - that was awesome and i had
so much fun! Thank you and I will miss you!
~Heidi Gamma
Mark, You wrote the book on how to be a good friend to
everyone you encounterd on and off the mountain. I will
never forget all the words of encouragement; the
willingness to teach your love of snowboarding and life.
You were a true master of the arts. You had class and
style that nobody will ever come close to. We will
always remember you on Schweitzer and you will never be
forgotten.... Punx
~Erik Vogelsang
Mark was
my snowboard coach in tahoe. He wasn't like any other
coach. He made me feel like a winner even if I got last
place in a race. He always wanted his team to have the
fastest boards, so in between races he would tune all of
our boards with his secret powder that he bought out of
his own pocket just for us, and let me tell you the
stuff wasn't cheap. He was always right there at the
start gate cheering me on. Over all the voices I could
always pick out his voice because he would cheer the
loudest. Mark also took it upon himself to get me free
gear from k2 because he knew my family couldn't afford
it. He had the biggest heart of anyone I have ever met
and was such an easy guy to get along with. He watched
me grow up and always looked out for me even when I
didn't know it. I spent more time riding on the mountain
with him than I did my own dad as a kid. I'll always
remember this one powder day. He and I alone hiked to
this secret spot at northstar and had the most unreal
powder runs. He would also take me, free of charge, on
days when we didn't even have team to other mountains to
get more training. The guy had an amazing heart and
personality and I am lucky to say he was a role model in
my life growing up. I think about you everyday mark, and
I will always remember all that you taught me in life
and in snowboarding. I miss you, shred in peace my
friend.
~Sara Stewart
I couldn't believe the news when I heard of Mark's passing, I sat there completely shocked, unable to process the truth of the news that Mt. Hood had lost one of it's greatest members. Mark had always been such a positive influence for myself personally and I looked up to him immensely. I remember that upon arriving at Hood for my first season, I entered into this community as a faceless nameless lift attendant on midway Palmer, spending most of my days loading campers and countless coaches from the multitude of the summer camps, while I longed and hoped to one day play in "their" world. On one of my days off I met up with a friend, lets call him Dudaily, who promptly took me past the "private access" gate at midway Palmer. We rode purposefully past the cavalcade of campers, filmers, and sponsor banners and I asked D, "Aren't we going to ride the camp?" He replied, to the effect, " We're going someplace better than this circus" we rode below to the lowest vein of snow in the private canyon, where a small assortment of rails and exceptional jumps resided peaceably contrasted to its larger, noisier, neighbor. As we rode up to a small gathering of riders, D introduced me to a man sitting comfortably amongst some younger kids and coaches, enjoying the late summer sun and giving advice on the finer points of summer riding. His name was Mark, and he told me that it was cool to ride with the campers and use the terrain as long as I helped out with some of the digging and salting set-up and breakdown of the features. My heart soared and I played with wild enthusiasm in this wonderful little Shangri-La. Later on in the afternoon, Mark and I started making small talk, and he recognized me from my station on Palmer. We began talking bout snowboarding, its primacy in life, and how we ended up on Hood . After that day I began going to MHSSC on a daily basis. Later on in the season, right before the summer wrapped up, Mark asked me if I had any interest to stick around after closing one afternoon, that there was something "big" planned. I jumped at the invitation, and on an early evening in August I had one of the most pivotable moments in my life in the Mt. Hood community: participating in one of the infamous night jump sessions. That was six years ago, and over the course of those years I have had the wonderful opportunity to see Mark outside the contexts of the summer scene but intrinsically tied to the Mt. Hood community. On the best powder days or perfect bluebird days, I could practically count on seeing him partaking in the same joy that had drawn me, and countless others to this area. This area has lost one of its great stewards, and though he may be gone and will be missed, I have no doubt that Mark will remain revered for all of the people that have met him, identified with his passions, and known what joys come from living that life. ~Karleton Pfaff
Classic photo from
Vail Pas circa 1993,
the super bmw (the
precursor to super
truck is to the
left, behind Mark).
I first met Mark at a jet ski race in Oklahoma in 1989, it was my first race and I had to do a teardown to prove my ski was stock, I had no clue what to do but Mark overheard me and offered to help, at the time he was an expert champion, so I was pretty amazed someone that good would want to help a novice at his first race, typical Mark. We ended up partnering up for the race season for the next few years, traveling to races. I was able to return the favor a few years later when I invited Mark to crash on my couch in Vail Co for the remainder of the 1992 ski season, which started him on the snowboard route that he so enjoyed. He was also my roommate at Schweitzer for a couple of years. One of those rare people with no pretense, he didn't care if you were a beginner or a pro, he just wanted to spread the stoke of whatever it was he was doing. He will definitely be missed! ~Shawn Taylor |
Mark, so
long ago you became my first real coach. Coach took on
another persona of role model. Role model developed
into friend. Even after I couldn't see you every day,
each time I did it was like I saw you the day before.
Everyone you influenced took something from your skills,
and most of all, your personality. You taught me a lot
about our sport, but immensely more about life. I will
always be a better person due to your influence, and
will do my best to keep passing it on. Thank you and
you will always be in my mind and action. Goodbye Mark,
and I hope to see you again. Lovingly,
~Cole Lindsay
The words were tough
to hear on Sunday – a great friend of Schweitzer’s
passed away. Mark Stegall left a legacy here and in many
other areas of the country. He was a great advocate of
kids, snowboarding and all around fun on the mountain.
He coached some of the best snowboarders to ever come
out of Schweitzer. He was a coach in the true sense of
the word – developing passion for the sport, teaching
riding skills and guiding kids through attitude shifts.
He cared, truly cared about all those things as well. It
wasn’t too long after he started working here – maybe
1999 when Mark came bounding in saying he had some ideas
that he wanted to try. That was an understatement. He
was a constant flow of ideas – always to benefit the
kids. A snow skate park, improvements to the terrain
park, improvements to Stomp Games – they always centered
around building programs for kids to learn and develop a
passion for the sport he loved so much. He spread his
enthusiasm as a coach here for several years – we were
so fortunate to have him around.
One can only hope that Mark realized the impact he had
on the snowboard world while he was still living. Legacy
builders are few and far between – hopefully we all
learned something from Mark during the seasons he spent
here. Mark you did make a difference in so many lives –
thank you.
~MWQ
It's
truly amazing how many people's lives you have touched.
You have been such a wonderful friend to me and so
genuine. I'll always cherish the times we had surfing in
Encinitas and snowboarding at Schweitzer. You always had
a way of giving me the perfect tips in a way that gave
me confidence. I'll never forget the the day we went
surfing, as I backed off the cresting wave, watching you
fly under under me with amazing speed... or the day you
helped me get over my fear of jumping in the park at
Schweitzer. You were such an amazing rider, teacher and
friend. Thanks for everything Mark.
~Jamie Dockins
Mark took me surfing to San Diego and it was one of the
best time in my life. He never judged me or my skills.
He was kind, funny, generous, patient and gave me the
courage to become a photographer. I wanted to see you
this summer at Mt Hood and show you my progress. I will
never forget you.
~Delphine Ettinger
Dearest
mark... He was obviously touched so many people! He let
me come with him when he trained the 'kids' snowboarding
at Northstar. I was 25 and far to old to be in the kids
camp but he could see I loved it and learnt so much
trying to keep up with him and the 'groms'! in the
powder through the tree runs! - He also made time for me
when I was sad and took me riding!! xxxxx He encouraged
me to do my first ever ski-a-cross race, and made me
feel like a champoin at the gates (like Sarah said with
his magic wax!) I guess the rare and special great thing
about Mark is he made us individually all feel special
at some point- THANK YOU MARK xxxxxx
~Louise Ward
I worked with Mark in Ski School at Schweitzer. He took
me on my first times to little and big blue, it was
awesome. He also took me out in the back country, which
I will never forget. Thank you Mark.
~Andrea Varela Moore
~Lisa Stegall
One of the
things I loved about Mark was how open and patient and
without judgment he was. He just took people for how
they were and it was okay. Pretty rare and oh so
cool!!!!
~Susan Stegall Eve
I have been trying to cope with this loss the pass
few days. I think today I was able to say goodbye to
you Mark. Fresh line in G-8 of Highlands Bowl waist
deep and over the windshield. Thinking of you
knowing you are saying keep it smooth and charging.
You gave me a new meaning of competing at Nationals.
You always beat us up dude, we set our riding on you
buddy. If we could only ride half as good as you,
beat you out of the gate, make it to the second berm,
might have a chance. Truly missed, seeing you
sending 5’s to the sky. We love you man.
~Mark Hogan
Wow, I just found
out about Mark’s passing and my heart goes out to his
family and friends, and lets face it Mark is someone who
had an extended family that included 100’s of people in
the snowboard world. I met Mark through USASA in New
Mexico in 2002, when we were competing in BX. We share
the same birth year, 1963, and a passion for
snowboarding. Mark always had the fastest time trials
in BX in Legends and some years the fastest of all the
BX competitiors in USASA. In 2002 I was a newbie to
USASA so when I was 3rd in the time trial Mark took me
under wing. He was a mentor and a fellow coach and one
of the people I most looked forward to seeing every year
at nationals. In 2003 when we were racing BX at Copper
on what was argueably the most aggressive course in
USASA history, because it had been built for the Gravity
Games, Mark and I were in the final heat of the day at
about 6 pm, day 1 of competition. The altitude was
kicking our asses and Scotty Palmer had given us the old
guys speech about how we needed to go to work next week
and to take it easy and not to get hurt. Nothing doing,
we were balls to the wall all the way. I got the jump on
Mark out of the gate (one of the few times) but he soon
passed me on the third jump. I was on his tail through
the course and at about the three quarters point he went
airborne of this killer hip and yelled “oh shit”. I was
right on his tail and was really scared shitless for him
and preceded to lose it myself going over the hip and
then was fearing I would land on top of Mark who was
laying in a heap. Somehow I managed to throw my body to
the side to avoid him, bouncing off a berm He was
clearly in a ton of pain and I stopped to ask how he was
and all he could say was “go!” I hesitated and
consequently got third place, with Mark limping in
behind in fourth. Another year at the Northstar at
Tahoe nationals after the first slope style run Mark was
leading and I was in third. Mark razzed me about taking
it easy and how I had thrown a 3 with a tail-grab at
Angle Fire a few years earlier, so I’d better step it up
and throw down off the big jump and beat him. I
followed Mark’s inspiration and threw down landing me in
2nd place and then late that night, really late, after a
few Jägermeisters he disected my run and explained how
the judging had been poor and in fact I should have
won. I still have the old Burton Canyon I rode that day
that got a big gouge in it from wacking the side of a
rail on that run, the line Mark insisted I take. I also
have a permanent bone bruise on my right hip from a flat
down flat box Mark assured me would be a piece of cake
at another nationals. Mark was the reason I finally
broke down and got a cell phone. One year at nationals
one of his athletes had been eliminated in BX but then
later they were calling for him at the start for another
round. Mark called him on the phone and then proceeded
to hold the powers to be at bay until his athlete
arrived. From then on I always carried a phone at
nationals with my athletes names programmed in. I am
just one of many people who learned a lot about life
from Mark Stegall. Mark always made quality time with
people. Many of my best nationals conversations on the
slope were with him, and many of my best late night
rounds at the bar were with him too. Rest in peace
Mark. They are forecasting a foot a nasty eastern pow
here in Massachusetts tonight and I be climbing to the
top of my local cliff in the early am and making a few
turns and thinking of him. He would have accepted no
less from me.
~John Friends
i continue to have a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that my cousin will no longer be in my life - although our family is somewhat scattered - wonderful relationships are not always made by quantity of time but rather quality of time - as i can see from his peers - mark was the same class act and awesome guy to be around just as he was in our family - i will miss his spirit - his smile - but most of all his kindness and friendship - happy trails - love ya always...
~Janet Davis
Everyone who knew Mark was blessed to be around his aura. He always showed up with the same smile and one of a kind personality that made everyone hyped. Even if you didn't know him, a day riding with Mark was like riding with one of your best friends. I remember first coming to hood and watching Mark hit big line and thought to myself, "This guy's an animal!" Ever since I heard of Marks passing I haven't been able to find the right words to say. I was looking forward to coming to Hood this summer to get some turns in with him, my only regret is that we didn't get one more jump session together. Mark was my coach, my mentor, and my friend. I'll miss you Mark, but your memory will live on with every day that we are all on the snow. Shred in peace Mark!
~David Monhait
~Brian Crall
As Brian Crall said in the comments below, we had a fantastic time up in Mount Hood that week. I'd been snowboarding for many years by then but Mark taught me some good habits in the snowboard park which really improved my stability and airtime. I'm conscious to this day of what he taught me everytime I'm making turns or lining up to a hit. A great bloke who loved the mountain.
~Rob Nicholson
Mark I just won nationals for you man!
~Kevin Kilo Keough
I remember the last nationals I competed in at copper. Mark was coaching me and Kelly Marren who's now a big shot competing in x games and dew tour halfpipe. The chair went right over the bx course and me and Kelly were probably 11 and 12 respectively. When we saw that course we were scared out of our minds! Mark assured us we were capeable and decided to help us have a one up on the competition. So in practice he taught us how to gap the roller set going into the first turn. Did I mention how young we were! I remember being terrified when he said that, but I trusted him when he said I could do something. He just told us to match his speed then yelled out when to Ollie we bothi got it first try. My dad has our runs from that day (mark included) on video. I'm trying to get him to transfer it from a tape for me. Anyways we were definatly the only girls in our group even attempting to gap that roller set and we couldn't have done it without marks faith in us. I will always remember that day as well many others with him and how he pushed me. Miss ya mark ♥.
~Sara Stewart
I was sorry to read about Mark's untimely death. I had meant to email him about my progress incorporating his riding tips. My GS times came down significantly this year and Mark's coaching played a big part.
One day in August of 2010 I was with a group of adult campers who were rained out on Mt. Hood. As we tossed around alternate activities Mark volunteered to take a group surfing for the day. He waited patiently for three of us to get ready, and then drove us for three hours to the Surf Shop, where we rented wetsuits and boards. We went to Short Sands, a favorite spot of his, and had to hike about a mile from the parking lot carrying boards and wetsuits. Mark laughed at us beginners lugging our longboards and said "wait till you see the 'potato chip' that I get to carry!" And pulled out a short, experts-only, boogie board. It was a sunny late afternoon, and the surf was perfect. Mark showed me how to tow the board past the first line of breakers, then to lay on the board and paddle out into the swells to the spot where the bigger waves would begin to break. Then how to balance sitting on the board and wait to choose the right wave. All afternoon we rode clean, curling 5 and 6 footers, Mark carving up and down each face as he rode just ahead of the jacking, making it look easy, me struggling out of a crouch only to lose my balance and fall in again and again. Matt Hill, a skier in our group, was showing some skills and getting awesome rides, seamlessly stepping off his board as it grounded at the very shoreline. The lowering sun backlit each wave and gave them a green glowing look from a dream. Mark rode past sunset until the first stars came out.
On the ride back, I rode shotgun as Mark drove through the dark Oregon farmlands and for three hours we talked about snowboarding, surfing, our lives, our adventures, and our regrets. Mark allowed that sometimes he wished that he had bought a house and raised a family . . . and I, who had done those things, admitted regretting that I hadn't dared to have a more adventurous life . . . but . . . for both of us, we concluded, nah. We had each done fine making the choices we had made. As Mark always said, the quote I will always remember: "It's all good, it's ALL good."
~Dan Tiede |
I'm so glad i got to know Mark. He did alot for snowboarding in the inland northwest, and the USASA series here. I'm proud to say that i got to race aginst him. FAST he was ! My son was coached by him this last summer, and got to know him. Thank you Mark. Snowboarding has lost a REALLY GREAT ONE ! Keep making the big turns in the sky. We'll miss ya. D.
~Darrin Dillon
I feel like I've come to know Mark this past week through all of you. What a wonderful friend. If only we could all leave the legacy and life lessons that Mark has, the world would be a better place. The photos are incredible and watching Mark in action on YouTube is inspiring. Ride on, Mark. Prayers to all.
~Dorothy Tarbox
Mark was the first snowboard coach i ever had. He taught me my signature method and always taught me to never give up. My fondest moment with him apart from the countless hours of shredding is when for some strange reason he OK'd 4 of my friends to take an inflatable raft down the hill and off one of the kickers in the MHSSC park. As fun as it sounded it didn't end well BUT seconds after impact Mark was there to the rescue showing how much he cared for all his campers and friends. He's a great and an amazing coach and rider. When i think snowboarding i think Mark and i know many others feel the same way. R.I.P. man Nationals this year is for you!
~Kevin Kilo Keough
Mark was the first coach that ever got me to clear a 50 foot gap. He was the most inspiring, and spending my summers snowboarding with him at Mt Hood are the best memories of my life
~Helen Sheldon Beaumont
I entered my 1st rail jam in about 5 years (the last one being my 1st ever with Mark at Hood) in his honor... killed it. You're my inspiration, Mark!
~Lyndsay Strange
i dont think anyone has mentioned the snowskate park mark built and maintained at schweitzer. definitely a cool thing that got alot of people stoked on something they wouldn't have otherwise. looked up to him as a grom there and always made a point to at least say hi when i saw him at hood the last few summers. all around awesome guy, hands down.
~Andrew Harder
Mark had a a very positive influence on our three kids while coaching them at MHSSC the last few years. Mark and his sidekick Rick taught them most everything they know about snowboarding. As a dad who often tagged along on the hill and in the video sessions in the basement, I appreciated his patience with the kids and his attention to detail for all the riders - regardless of their skill level. Our son Jack was particularly upset to hear of Mark's passing. The attached photo from last August was at the end of the day when almost everyone had gone in - Mark took the time to come up to the halfpipe and give Morgan some pointers. Mark will be missed by many.
~Kurt Reid |
Mark, I'll never be able to watch point break and not think of you! "you can't just call time out there and paddle back in...." Thanks for showing me how to get my first wave, and thanks for being you!
~Jordan Dykes
Thanks for everything Mark. I learned
so much from just being around you. I learned how to
coach Snowboarding. I learned how to get just as stoked
for a kid landing his first 180 as for a pro pulling
900's. I saw you seamlessly go from teaching one kid
grabs to teaching me rodeos while I wondered how you did
it. You helped me get 3rd in my first usasa national bx,
waxing my board even though I was competing against your
rider. I can't promise I'll win but I will be racing for
you this Wednesday at the usasa national bx. Thank you
for making the world a better place.
~Steven Knabe
I have so many great memories of our boardercross days in the 90s. So many pow days at Schweitzer also! You were alway a positive influence on the sport, and just a down to earth cool guy. My thoughts are with your family. You will always be remembered!!~Jeff Yates
~Susan Stegall Eve
I was a camper, June of
2008, the only snowboarder
that session that wasn't in
the park, and spent a day or
two with Luke. Mark took a
day off from the park kids
and rode with just me and
worked on my riding. The
help and inspiration I got
from him pushed me to keep
practicing as much as I
could during the short
season we have in North
Dakota. A half year later I
decided to go on hiatus from
college and work at a ski
resort. Since January 2009 I
have gotten my Level 1
Snowboard certification from
AASI, and started working
for my Level 2
certification. Having taught
for 3 seasons now I can
surely say I've borrowed a
lot of my tricks from how
Mark taught me that day. I
am sad to hear that Mark has
passed but his teaching is
living on in me and in every
single student I've ever
taught. Through these 3
seasons I've worked several
other jobs at the resort and
settled on becoming a full
time groomer so I can
actually afford to teach as
many people as possible;
teaching during the days and
grooming in the evenings.
This quote makes me think of
Mark and I hope others will
agree: "Many people
attach snowboards to their
feet, few attach them to
their souls."
~Alyssa Biel
I will miss Mark, Ive
only had to a chance to
spend a week with him,
but it was by far one of
the best, and funnest
weeks of my life. I
remember him coaching me
on a much more fluent
frontside 3 then what i
was throwing, His Power
Stance still lives under
my feet to this very
day. He will be
remembered in my turns.
Thanks For everything
Mark we love ya man. Btw
his cab 3 is still stuck
in my head to this very
day, ive never seen such
a perfect cab 3 then he
showed off to me on a
day of coaching me.
~Gason Roberts
Pat Holland:
Attention Sandpoint Friends!
Farewell to our Friend. Sunday April 10 at 3pm at the top of the Schweitzer Quad to celebrate - honor Mark Stegall.. Marks family thought that Mark would want some of his ashes released on Schweitzer, a place where he loved so much. This will be gathering for Mark's friends to get together to share stories and pay tribute to a great friend. Please join us if you can. If your not riding that day, walkers will be allowed up the Quad to be present. Please meet with Pat Holland at the clocktower in the village at 2:45 and we will head up from there. We hope to see many old friends gather to celebrate a truly loving man. *photo courtesy of Nancy Kuster |
From Sister Lisa Stegall... Origin of the nickname “wandering bear” (or,
Mark was a true free spirit) The origin of determination The day we realized he was destined to go fast
in life 100+ Reasons Mark never ate Thin Mint Cookies Goodnight lawnmower and other adventures of
disassembling things The bike and freedom More about “the” bike The “Christmas Story” warning about the BB Gun
comes true Learning to swim Learning dachshunds don’t swim so well Dad’s usual response to the question “oh, you
must be Mark’s dad?” GI Joe, Snoopy, Slot Cars Bimmer and Kiri Dear teacher, I do not want to meet with you
about Mark Hooked from the first trip But I don’t want THAT car, I want a sports car Dock fishing Mark-a-razzi Him: Uh, okay….what room? Her: The penthouse. Him: Uh, okay….what’s your name? Her: Kathie Lee. Him: What’s your last name? Her: Gifford. Him: [Clueless]…Okay, what time? He gets to the room. Hmmm, husband seems vaguely familiar, Mark thought. He ended up shooting their Christmas card pictures, said they were very friendly and gracious, spent well over $1000 on photos, always said hello when they saw him around the mountain and sent him business. Are you going to be a mummy for Halloween? Origin of the “turbo” button Kid magnet Boy Scout training is lifelong PS, what we did with some ashes Okay, I’m done for now. XOXOXO! Lisa |
|
I will
always remember this "Mark Stegall" moment.
This took place on one of those bad
weather/lifts are on "stand-by" days at
Timberline in the summer. 95% of the MHSSC
campers and staff were inside the Wy’East
day lodge relaxing, socializing and drinking
cocoa, while we waited for Timberline to
make their decision on whether or not they
could open the lifts that day. I had
decided to walk out the back door to check
out the weather, and I see Mark giving a
clinic to his group of snowboard campers.
He found some plywood and a plastic mat, had
his campers grab their boards, and he was
working with his group on stance and how to
stomp the landing. etc. This was just one
small example of Mark’s willingness to go
the extra mile with his kids. |
For those that knew
the "super
truck"....the final
odometer reading.
~Lisa Stegall |
OMG, Lisa, thanks so
much for taking this photo. I vividly recall the
day Robert gave the turbo button sticker to
Mark. Robert was only about 5 or 6 at the time.
He asked Mark if the truck could drive fast,
"like his Dad drove." Mark told Robert that the
truck could go pretty fast, but maybe not as
fast as his dad's car. Robert went up to his
room and promptly returned with the Turbo button
sticker, which he presented to Mark, all grins.
Mark was visibly thrilled, and the next thing we
knew, Supertruck had a turbo button. The boys
loved to push that silly thing when they were in
the truck and make vrooming noises. Many smiles
from that one sticker! ~Susan Stegall Eve |
If you have a memory or photo to
share, please send it here.
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