In Memorial: Eric Waddell

In recognition of the outstanding contribution to Central Zone made by Eric Waddell (December 30, 1950 – March 4, 2022) the awards committee has decided to rename the President’s Commendation Award to be the Presidents’ Commendation Award in Memory of Eric Waddell.

This award is to recognize those individuals who have served the system at any level in various capacities over the years and is awarded at the discretion of the Zone President. Patroller must be a previous recipient of a Zone Appreciation Award. No more than 10 are awarded each year.

About Eric

Eric Waddell, LM No.80 passed away after a long battle with cancer earlier this Spring.

Joining the CSP in 1995 first in Greater Vancouver Zone, then later Central Zone, Eric is remembered by many as an institution.

Best known for hauling the CSP into the modern computer age, Eric fostered the rudimentary beginnings of the NDS (National Database System) with his pioneering software development skills. Building on this concept he later developed the multifaceted ZIMS (Zone Information Management System) for Central Zone. The roots of these early systems can be seen today in the current National Yeti software.

Eric also recognized early on the importance of ski swap events. In Greater Vancouver Eric was deeply involved in the event administration, even continuing his support remotely after transferring to Central Zone (with its own swap responsibilities). Always one to step up, he held a number of executive positions in both zones, including acting as zone president in Central Zone when the current President took a leave of absence.

Most recently Eric is known for patrolling at Caledon Ski Club, his work in the classroom as an Instructor Trainer in North York and Oakville courses, and as the face of Central Zone in his capacity as Office Administrator.

Never one to miss out, and despite his diagnosis, over the last few years Eric continued to engage extensively with the CSP including ongoing remote IT support. Friends report that even on his darkest days he never stopped talking about how he could contribute during the next season.

After 25 years on patrol, Eric made the CSP his second home and his family. His passion, commitment, and quirky nature will be deeply missed.

As a visual commemoration of Eric’s longstanding contributions, a quilt incorporating just some of Eric’s CSP t-shirt collection – nicknamed “the CSP Hug” – was crafted by Marion Karol and presented to Eric in the final week of his life.

Eric’s Awards & Recognition

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