One of the co-founders of Breckenridge Ski Area, Trygve Berge, died April 2 after a brief illness, according to his obituary.
Berge founded the resort in 1961 with Sigurd Rockne and Bill Rounds. Prior to that, the Voss, Norway, native was a professional ski racer, becoming the Norwegian downhill champion in 1954 and competing at the 1956 Olympics in Cortina, Italy, for Norway. A stylish skier and risk-taker, his flips off of jumps and carving were featured in films, postcards and billboards across the state and world.
“His accomplishments, however, tell only a part of his story. To many who knew him, he was a trusted companion, mentor, and friend. He formed lasting friendships across generations whether on chairlifts, in lodges, or around kitchen tables, earning a reputation of kindness, warmth and an easy smile that make people feel welcome,” stated his obituary in Summit Daily News. “His friendships were deep, loyal and enduring, and he took pride in the community that grew around him.”
Many took to social media upon hearing of his death to share how Trygve was a “legend” in Summit County, noting his outgoing personality and ability to connect with people through both his kindness and humor.
“The name Trygve Berge is always going to be synonymous with the town of Breckenridge, Colorado, and the ski resort itself,” Terri Edwards Shannon said of Berge in his 1999 Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame induction video. “Every skier in Colorado should be extremely grateful for the contribution he has made to the sport of skiing.”
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