Local ski industry leader dies

Published 1:39 pm Thursday, December 11, 2008

Jack Nagel, a key player in the development of the local ski industry, died March 11, 2004.

According to family members, Nagel's death was the result of heart failure while skiing in Idaho.

Born in 1926, Nagel was one of the avid skiers frequenting Stevens Pass. He was good enough to represent the United States in the 1952 Winter Olympics.

When ski enthusiasts embarked on a mission to establish a new ski destination, Nagel was part of the group responsible for Crystal Mountain. He started the Jack Nagel Ski School when Crystal opened for business in 1962. He also operated the rental shop and was a resident of Enumclaw from 1962 to 1982.

He helped put Crystal Mountain on the map, along with daughters Cathy and Judy, who also were top-flight competitors.

Aside from his daughters, Nagel is survived by his wife, Beatrice.

Note: A more complete look a Nagel's life, including his connection to Crystal Mountain's early days, is planned for next week's edition.