March 16, 1953 – October 29, 2024

Paul Gray Parker of Harbor Springs, Michigan, and Breckenridge, Colorado, died peacefully surrounded by family on October 29, 2024, in Harbor Springs.

Paul was born in Dallas, Texas, on March 16, 1953, to Emma Lou (White) and Samuel Parker, both church organists. Paul grew up in Dallas but always harbored a plan to move to the mountains as soon as possible. Settling in Colorado, his love of the mountains enabled his professional successes as an author, instructor, adventure skier, ski industry consultant, product designer and manager. This career path allowed Paul to climb, ski, participate in expeditions, and cycle in mountains around the world.

Paul spent his early years working for Outward Bound and Neptune Mountaineering and spent every free moment climbing. Teaching telemark skiing became his introduction to Chouinard Equipment where he was hired as a tech rep to sell telemark skis and bindings. He worked to develop TUA skis as a feasible brand in the US, develop Scarpa as a viable backcountry ski boot brand and conceived the first plastic telemark boot with Scarpa. When he began working with Garmont, it was to develop the first triple-injected boot. Further efforts produced telemark, rondonee, freeride and alpine boots. He also worked for Patagonia, Marmot, and Scott. He was a member of the PSIA Nordic Demo Team for 8 years.

In 1988 Paul wrote the definitive how-to guide for the sport of telemark skiing, Free-Heel Skiing: Telemark and Parallel Techniques (now in its 3rd edition). In 2002 the ski industry honored Paul with the Dagfinn Ragg award for his outstanding contribution to the advancement of cross-country ski sports.

In 2023, when Paul faced health challenges, he and Lanie moved back to Michigan to be close to Lanie’s extended family. Paul particularly enjoyed the “really big trees” and the serenity of the area. He could frequently be spotted riding his bike close to home or making a few turns at Nubs Nob, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Lanie (Wilderom) Parker, brother Roland Parker, Lanie’s family and friends from around the world. Per Paul’s request, there will be no services. Paul was happiest after a hard ski, ride or sitting quietly at home with a beer.