With family and friends by his side, Carl Allen Praeger of Ketchum died peacefully in his sleep Dec. 9, 2007, after a long and difficult battle with cancer.
He was born in Seattle, Wash., June 12, 1957, to John and Sylvia Praeger. Carl graduated from Roosevelt High School in Seattle and earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Washington in kinesiology.
Carl devoted his life to exercising in the outdoors. He was the happiest when he was skiing, running, swimming, kayaking or bike riding. The day before he died he was able to take one last ski and one last bike ride. Carl enjoyed competing in races all over the Pacific Northwest, and in doing so he made many strong, long-lasting friendships.
He was a lifeguard and ski instructor by profession and enjoyed teaching others how to improve their own athletic abilities. He was honored this past year by the Sun Valley Ski School by being chosen to lead the annual Torchlight Parade as part of the Christmas Eve celebrations.
Carl was a complete expert in every type of skiing equipment, both Alpine and Nordic. He was able to use that expertise helping the Gold Mine thrift store price and sell the equipment donated. The women at the Gold Mine gave Carl an incredible amount of emotional support during his illness.
He is survived by his father, Jack; sisters Sydney (Mike Thompson) of Ketchum and Susan (Chip Mehring); and his brother, Wade, of Seattle. Additionally, he is survived by four nephews and one niece.
Carl's cancer brought him closer to the community and he was humbled by the way the community rallied for him. Carl would often speak of how much it meant to him. The family is forever grateful to the many friends who came forward to offer Carl support and friendship in his difficult battle. Thank you!
A celebration of Carl's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Blaine County Recreation District/North Valley Trails.
