Late in the afternoon, the day after Boxing Day, we found out the name of the deceased in the holiday accident at Nakiska Ski Resort.

It was reported Rocky View Deputy Reeve Rick Butler was the skier who lost control and hit a tree Monday.

Other reports have stated that Butler was conscious when receiving first response medical help, but his condition deteriorated as he was being transferred to the Foothills Hospital in Calgary. Butler was pronounced dead at the hospital. He leaves behind his wife Gwyn and two daughters, Corrie and Marni.

Butler graduated from the University of Alberta in 1970 and was a former executive director of the Calgary Regional Partnership. He was first elected to the Rocky View County Council in 2010. 

Reeve Rolly Ashdown was shocked by the news and declined to comment at this time.

Funeral services will be held at RockPointe Church, 255024 Lochend Road, near Cochrane on January 4.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the Butler family.