Renee and Terry Skjersaa Memorial Fund

With extreme gratitude, the Scott and Skjersaa families welcome donations to the Central Oregon Avalanche Center in honor of Renee and Terry Skjersaa. This funding will directly benefit backcountry skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers and snowshoers who pursue the joy of winter excursions in the Cascade Mountains.

Renee and Terry were highly-experienced backcountry adventurers. Their training included avalanche preparedness and they demonstrated a deep respect for the backcountry by following protocols. On February 17, 2025, they were caught in an avalanche not far from their home near Tumalo Falls.

Renee Skjersaa was an educator in Central Oregon for 20 years. In addition to teaching middle school math and computer science, Renee was an energetic cross country and track coach to thousands of students. More recently, she helped connect regional high school students with opportunities for internships and diverse career pathways in the local community. A gifted athlete, Renee enjoyed rock climbing, running, triathlon, skiing and cycling. She was a member of the Sunnyside Sports and Deschutes Brewery cycling teams, competing in multiple disciplines including cyclocross, mountain biking and road racing.

Terry Skjersaa was well known in the ski industry, having worked as an independent sales representative for many snow and outdoor brands early in his career. Since founding the Skjersaa Group in 2005, Terry and his real estate team have donated at least one percent of their annual revenue to nonprofits that serve environmental, housing and youth initiatives in Central Oregon. He was an avid supporter of local music, arts, sports and outdoor recreation, and was a passionate advocate of the local community. In addition to being an exceptional skier, Terry enjoyed mountain biking, hiking, camping and motorcycling, and loved planning moto trips with good friends throughout the Pacific Northwest.

The impact these incredible people—both individually and as an amazing couple—had on the Bend, Oregon, community cannot be emphasized enough. The family is so grateful for the important work of the Central Oregon Avalanche Center, and appreciate your support of their non-profit initiatives. Thank you so much for a gift in any amount.