From the Ski for Light Bulletin - Spring 2000
by Bud Keith
At the end of January, a mix of excitement, joy and sadness filled the atmosphere as we gathered in Colorado to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Ski for Light. A close friend, Bjarne Eikevik, one of the founders of Ski for Light and its President from 1976 to 1981, died at home after a long battle with prostate cancer. So many of the early Ski for Light family were inspired by his constant smile, his unlimited energy, his belief that anything was possible, and his ability to make each of us feel important.
Two weeks before he died, and knowing death was close, Bjarne told me how sad he was to miss attending SFL. He said that he had planned to bring his entire family to join in the celebration, and asked that his best wishes be extended to everyone present.
Bjarne gets the credit for promoting the recreational and relaxed style of SFL. He loved nature and how it could be enjoyed on skis. He quickly became an instinctive guide, and shared so well what he felt, saw and dreamed of.
Another founder of SFL, Tor Dahl, shared this about Bjarne: "It is such a joy to have known someone who thinks that everything is possible, and then helps make it so. Can you imagine a life better lived?"
Tor adds, "A poet wrote: Each one of us stands at the center of the earth lit by a sunbeam. And suddenly it is evening." And suddenly it was evening for Bjarne.
Bjarne taught us how to live. And in the end, he taught us how to die. Rest in peace, dear Bjarne. Rest in peace.
At Bjarne's request, the Sons of Norway Foundation will annually provide $1,000 for SFL scholarships.