Submitted
Little did Nyle Mulkey Chose’s parents Susan Mulkey of Kaslo and Lars Chose of Nelson know how deeply their son had touched his community until after he died tragically in an automobile accident in March 2017. He was 30, and had been passionately pursuing his dreams, working in forestry during the summer months and as a backcountry snowboarding guide in the winter. He had a contagious smile and a fire in his belly, was quick to laugh and the first to lend a hand.
Within weeks of Nyle’s death, people made a point of letting his parents know what a positive difference he had made in their lives and how much they wanted to keep his spirit alive. So, last year, in his honour, the Nyle Mulkey Chose Bluebird Day Foundation, a non-profit society, was formed to sponsor young people in the West Kootenay to develop their skills in the backcountry.
There was an overwhelming response to the first fundraiser, and the society raised enough money to start the process of obtaining charitable status, as well as being able to sponsor five individuals who are now furthering their education in avalanche safety and backcountry guiding certification.
In April, the foundation held its second annual fundraiser, and the board of directors along with Nyle’s parents were again humbled by the outpouring of love and support. Many thanks go out to the numerous organizations and individuals who donated items for the silent auction and to the Baldface staff and Nyle’s friends and coworkers for showing up and bidding up.
As the foundation moves forward, it will continue to honour Nyle’s memory each year by giving back to the community and enabling young people to advance their backcountry skill development and training.