Mike Delich was lauded for his exceptional Tourism Leadership during Tourism Fernie’s Annual General Meeting. He was celebrated as a pivotal figure whose leadership, commitment, and professionalism significantly contributed to the tourism landscape of Fernie and Fernie Alpine Resort. Mike’s recent sale of Fernie Lodging Company, a cornerstone in tourism accommodations, played a vital role in shaping the industry as we know it today.
Jikke Gyorki, Tourism Fernie Executive Officer, is pictured above presenting Mike with the Tourism Leadership & Legacy Award.
Hailing from Rossland, BC, Mike relocated to Fernie in 1979, initially working in the coal industry as an engineer for a decade before embarking on entrepreneurial ventures in 1989. His passion for alpine skiing, development, and entrepreneurship led him to assume the role of Resort Development Manager for Snow Valley Ski Ltd., owned by Heiko Socher. In this capacity, Mike spearheaded the 1989 Revised Master Plan, overseeing the development of resort infrastructure and the creation of distinctive slopeside properties like Timberline Lodges, Bear Paw Lodges, and Snow Creek Lodge & Cabins under Fernie Vacation Properties Inc. These properties later evolved into Fernie Lodging Company Inc., while Fernie Vacation Properties Inc. continued to pursue other development projects such as Fernie Golf Estates.
Mike’s overarching principle was to think big and aim high, as encapsulated by the quote: “Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood, and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans, aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram, once recorded, will never die…” (Charles Burnham, 1919, Chicago).
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mike was deeply engaged in the community and the alpine ski industry at local, provincial, national, and international levels. His involvement spanned ski racing and coaching, volunteer work in renovation projects, support for community programs like the KinderGym Program initiated by his late wife Joan Delich, and holding key official positions at major ski races.
Mike’s contributions also extended to founding initiatives such as the Highline 100 cycling event, the 2012 Fernie Snow Valley 50th Anniversary celebration, and the Fernie Skiing Heritage Wall of Fame. Notably, he played a pivotal role as a founding director of Tourism Fernie and advocated for the implementation of the hotel tax in smaller resort communities, leading to its adoption in Fernie in 2007.
Mike’s guiding principle resonates deeply with his illustrious history of accomplishments. His dedication and vision have left an indelible mark on Fernie’s tourism landscape and its future trajectory. Congratulations, Mike, and heartfelt thanks for your invaluable contributions to both the tourism industry and the community of Fernie.
Source: Tourism Fernie
