Long-time friends share fond memories of Terry and Renee Skjersaa and their deep roots in Bend community

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Many people across the High Desert and beyond are mourning and remembering Terry and Renee Skjersaa, who tragically lost their lives in an avalanche this week.

Former Skjersaa's Ski Shop employee Randall Barna tells Isabella Warren he watched Terry Skjersaa grow up when he worked for the family at their store in the 1970s.

Meanwhile, Dylan Anderman spoke Wednesday with Sunnyside Sports co-owner Mike Schindler, who remembered Renee Skjersaa as a tough cycling competitor and a very good friend.

Renee Skjersaa meant a lot to many different people, including Sunnyside Sports owner Mike Schindler, who competed with Renee on the Sunnyside Cycling Team. Many people said Renee was a phenomenal athlete. Along with cycling, Renee coached middle school track and cross country.

She taught at three Bend-La Pine schools between 2005 and 2023, most recently working with students to link them to internships and career opportunities at Bend high schools.

Mike, like many others, will mourn but will continue to remember the impact the Skjersaas left on them and the Central Oregon community.