John Jay—It is hard to evaluate the contributions to the sport of skiing that Jay made. He harnessed a brilliant mind, a love of skiing and a gentle wit to become the cinematic Pied Piper of the sport. The ski world was much smaller, more intimate, in the days when he launched his career as film lecturer, and his impact in the post-World War years of skier growth was nothing short of phenomenal. He tirelessly criss-crossed the country, appearing at country clubs, school auditoriums and theaters, delivering his unique entertainment package—a mix of travel, adventure and ski spectacle—all leavened by witty commentary that was his unique trademark. In those days before, and in the infancy of, television, Jay’s presence in the ski world was as dominating as that of a rock star.
In creating this special art form, Jay set the stage for a host of competitors, including Warren Miller, Dick Barrymore and others. Hugely influential though these figures became, none could ever equal the influence that Jay enjoyed in his heyday. The sport of skiing was immeasurably blessed by this remarkable man.
Bob Gillen—When Bob Gillen finally succumbed to pancreatic cancer in November, the ski world lost a remarkable talent. Whether practicing his deft promotional skills as a resort marketer (Crested Butte, Sugarbush and Stowe) or his equally deft skills as an editor (Ski Magazine and his own Snow Industry Letter), Gillen brought a compelling mixture of rigorous intellectual honesty and a wry sense of humor. The humor, often self-effacing, was disarming and earned him the respect and affection of competitors and co-workers alike.
We in the ski media hate losing this special man.
