George Hovland, II

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Hovland, George II Skier, designer, and visionary, George Hovland died May 9, 2021. He would have been 95 on June 10, 2021. He always thanked his parents (George and Gertrude) for buying a home with an extra lot in Duluth's Chester Park neighborhood, which provided him with the foundation for his athletic pursuits, his friendships, and nurtured his industrious spirit. The sound of Chester Creek and its falls were dear to his heart. He embraced nature, believing it to be the representation of a much higher force. George's life has been documented in news reports of his death, including the Star Tribune and the Duluth News Tribune. George's emphasis on skiing and healthy outdoor activities introduced many to trails, events, and venues that he had a hand in creating. More important are the countless skiers (alpine and Nordic) who have been able to enjoy these sports in Duluth and whose interactions with George resulted in a story, laugh, better technique or a friendship. He was most proud of creating Snowflake Nordic Ski Center with his wife, Jane and being the sole founder of the Northshore Inline Marathon, as well as the founder of Spirit Mountain. Each of these endeavors brought recognition to the city he loved, and quiet satisfaction to George. He is survived by his wife Jane, son and favorite skiing partner George III (Cynthia), daughter Julie, and 5 grandchildren: Dana, Haley, and Bridget Hovland; and Christian and Ariana Savalas. To honor George, an Ice Cream Social will be on July 18, 2021, at Northland Country Club, 3901 E. Superior Street, Duluth, from 2 - 4:30. Friends of all ages are invited to enjoy George's favorite food and to share memories of a remarkable man. Memorials may be directed to the newly established George Hovland Foundation, the mission of which will be to support young skiers in the Duluth/Superior community. Please contact any member of the Hovland family for details.

Published on July 11, 2021