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Family and friends of Edmontonian Tal Hofstra are reeling from the death of the skiing instructor whose body was recovered from the slopes of a ski resort in Revelstoke, B.C., on Christmas Day.
The tragic death has been difficult to cope with, said Cor Hofstra, grandfather of the 24-year-old who went skiing with some friends last weekend on Mount Mackenzie.
"It's something that just doesn't go away overnight," Cor told Sun Media.
Tal was last seen skiing Revelstoke Mountain Resort's "Jalapeno" run Saturday, the new resort's opening day.
He failed to meet up with friends that day and an extensive search was launched.
Revelstoke Search and Rescue, a local heli-skiing company and resort staff combed the hills for three days before they found his body.
His grandfather said everyone in the family was somewhat relieved when searchers made the discovery.
"If they had not found him, it would be so much harder."
Cor said everyone in the family cannot believe his grandson is now gone.
"He's a very lovable boy."
Tal's friends at Rabbit Hill Snow Resort in Edmonton, where he worked for a number of years, were shocked at what happened, said owner Bill Oak.
"Our thoughts are certainly with the family. This is a tragic situation," Oak said.
Oak added Tal's death is a blow to the local skiing industry.
"He focused his life pretty much on being a better skier. Quite bluntly, the only reason he's not working with us is because of his passion to get to the mountains to ski," he said.
Tal began skiing as a kid at Rabbit Hill. He became an instructor after he trained locally and in the United States.
Tal's Facebook page has been flooded with messages of sympathy.
"I'm sure you're skiing with the angels now.... rest in peace Tal," wrote Shauna Jones.
Julie Christensen wrote she will remember the good times they shared every time she looks out onto the mountain horizon.
"Living life like every day was your last, no regrets dude! I miss you man, I'll see you another day," wrote Chris Senft.