A Calgary oil executive was killed in a skiing accident in Whitefish, Montana over the weekend.
Officials say 48-year-old Thomas Podivinsky died after falling into what’s known as a tree well; an area of loose snow or a hole in the snow around the trunk of a tree.
Podivinsky was skiing with a friend around 12:30 p.m. Sunday when they were separated. When he didn’t meet up with a group of people as planned about 30 minutes later, he was reported missing.
Ski patrollers were not able to resuscitate him.
An online post by Mark Nichols, a friend of Podivinsky’s, says “Today is a very sad day. The world has lost a great man, father, husband and friend to many. Life is to short. This could not be more the case when spoken about Tom. I have been fortunate to share many wonderful times with you. Your passing is shocking and tragic. May God bless you and all those who’s lives have been touch by you. Rest in peace my friend.”
A statement from Whitefish Mountain Resort says “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends as they cope during this difficult time. This accident is another unfortunate reminder that tree wells are an inherent risk of the sport. We encourage our guests to take extra caution when skiing in the trees, ski with a partner, and call ski patrol immediately if someone is missing. We will continue to help our guests understand the risks and encourage educating themselves on this subject.”
Podivinsky was the chief geophysicist for Athabasca Oil Corporation. He was also the brother of Canadian Olympic skier Edi Podivinsky, who won a bronze medal in downhill skiing in 1994 in Lillehammer.
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