Big Bear legend Fredrick Dallas Goldsmith passed on September 12th, 2023, dying of natural causes after battling Parkinson’s disease for many years.

Fred was born in Longview, Washington to Theodore and Sarretta Goldsmith. The family owned a dairy farm, where Fred discovered the outdoors and eventual love and connect to the land. The Goldsmiths moved to Big Bear in 1946. Fred spent his youth roaming every square foot of “his valley,” often bringing home his catch of the day for dinner. He was also an avid hunter until his illness.

Following high school graduation, Fred enlisted in the Army. Because of his ski and mountain experience, he was sent to French Alps, patrolling the border between France and Germany on skis. He was selected to race on the Army’s CISM team and competed in the cross-country skiing and shooting biathalon. His contributions while on the team supported national security through healthy relationships between the United States and European allies. Fred – the kid from Big Bear – was able to ski throughout Europe on the government’s dime and got the Army tour everyone wished for!

Following his tour, Fred returned home to “his valley” and became one of the first ski coaches for the Snow Summit Race Team and Assistant Ski School Director for Snow Summit Ski School. In the summers, he sold real estate with his father. He met his wife, Linda, in TJ’s bar at Summit. In 1970 Fred led a group of investors in the purchase of Moonridge Ski Area which became Goldmine and is now known as Bear Mountain. Upon leaving Snow Summit 1987, Fred continued in the ski industry by starting his family business, Goldsmith’s Ski Rental, now known as Goldsmith’s Sports. The business is still run by his wife and children.

Fred’s love of the outdoors and “his valley” found him on a horse all summer. He joined the Vaqueros riding club and Big Bear Mounted Posse. His knowledge of the Valley made him instrumental in aiding search teams for lost hikers. He served as Commander of the posse for four years and remained involved for 34 years. Because of Fred’s love of the area, he also led rides for the Wild Horsemen of America, which raised money for the families of fallen sheriff members.

Fred made a significant impact on “his valley.” He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Linda, his children Danielle and Dallas and his wife Mary, his greatest gifts – his granddaughters – Dallas Lee, Indy, Nola, and Georgia, and his sister Sally Buckelew, who hope to carry on his positive impact throughout the valley.

A celebration of life is planned for Oct 28th at Bear Mountain Resort, Big Bear Lake, CA.   Come prepared for an outdoor celebration (weather permitting). Ceremony begins at 1PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations to these local organizations.

https://donate.mountainsfound…

And

https://snowsummitraceteam.or…

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