Memorial planned for popular Canmore ski guide Robson Gmoser

Friends and family of a well-known backcountryguide who died in an avalanche are planning a memorial at Mt. Norquay in Banff, Alberta.

• Robson Gmoser, 45, identified as avalanche victim in Golden, B.C.

Canmore resident Robson Gmoser was working at Sorcerer Lodge near Golden. B.C. when the accident happened.

"We expect bad news and avalanche deaths out here when people work in the mountains, but not Robson. He was so well known and such a good guide," said friend and former colleague Jane Whitney.

Whitney says Gmoser was an extremely popular guide and his winter trips were sold out until 2018.

He was the son of the famous mountaineer Hans Gmoser, who invented heli-skiing and was a member of the Order of Canada.

"His father survived falling through a cornice off a mountain and landed on a ledge like a cat and walked back up the mountain," said Whitney.

Whitney says Robson Gmoser, himself, had more than 30 years ofexperience in the backcountry.

"He was just doing what he does everyday of the year," said Jane Whitney.

Whitney says while the mountain community is mourning the loss of Gmoser, they also want to celebrate his extraordinary life.

"We'd be selfish if we were to ask people like Robson to stay inside and stay safe because one would witness an even greater sadness of life not lived," said Whitney.

Gmoser leaves behind his mother Margaret, wife Olivia and three-year-old son Max. The ceremony will take place on March 27 in the lodge atMt. Norquay.