Central Oregon celebrates the life and legacy of Terry and Renee Skjersaa

Bend, ORE. (KTVZ) -- The life and legacy of one of Central Oregon's most cherished couples, reverberated around Downtown Bend, Sunday evening.

Hundreds, gathered for a candlelight vigil, celebrating the life and legacy of Terry and Renee Skjersaa.

The candlelight vigil for Terry and Renee Skjersaa was attended by friends, family, and many members of the ski community.

The Skjersaa's died in an avalanche accident.

Both Terry and Renee loved to ski, particularly, backcountry skiing. 

The Skjersaa family have deep roots in Bend.

Terry's grandfather, Olaf, started the first ever ski shop in Bend, way back in the 1930s.

A very popular ski shop on Bend's westside, still wears their name.

Terry was also successful in real estate. He helped start the Skjersaa group, which has a big presence in the industry.

His wife, Renee, was a very well-liked educator for nearly 2 decades. She taught countless families, including many who work here at KTVZ News. Renee, who was a math teacher at Cascade Middle School, also coached track, and was a great athlete herself, as she was on several cycling teams in town. Her teammates tell us, she was a fierce competitor, and would also stay to root the rest of her teammates on.

Terrance Olaf Skjersaa, was 57 when he passed. His wife Susan Renee Skjersaa, was 52.