Terry and Renee Skjersaa Bend, OR Obituary News: In Loving Memory of Terry and Renee Skjersa Dies After Avalanche In Bend Oregon

The bodies of two people killed after being caught in an avalanche were recovered Tuesday in the Central Cascade Mountains west of Bend. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Unit recovered the two individuals from Trail 8 on snow-covered Forest Service Road 370, between the Bend Watershed and Broken Top area in an area known as Happy Valley.

Officials reported that the victims appeared to have been recreating in the area when they were tragically caught by an avalanche. Their names have not been released, but Deschutes County Sheriff Kent Vander Kamp referred to them as a couple with a long history in Central Oregon.

Search and rescue teams worked diligently under challenging conditions to locate and recover the bodies. Authorities were first alerted to the avalanche incident when the couple was reported missing by friends and family, prompting an extensive search operation. The use of specialized equipment and trained personnel allowed the team to navigate the dangerous terrain and successfully bring the victims home to their loved ones.

The tragic accident highlights the dangers of winter recreation in the backcountry, especially in areas prone to avalanches. Experts emphasize the importance of checking avalanche forecasts, carrying proper safety gear, and having knowledge of avalanche survival techniques when venturing into remote snowy landscapes.

Sheriff Vander Kamp expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reminded the public to exercise extreme caution when engaging in outdoor activities during winter conditions. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” he said. “We urge everyone exploring these areas to prioritize safety and remain aware of potential hazards.”