Editor’s note: This story has been updated with comments from the West Grand School District.

A longtime fixture of the Kremmling community, Mike Wilson, died from acute cardiac arrest Saturday at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, according to the Summit County coroner. He was 69 years old.

Wilson was well known throughout Kremmling and Grand County from his years teaching in the West Grand School District and for his work as the photographer for the Grand Gazette newspaper.

In a statement on its Facebook page, Kremmling’s community newspaper honored Wilson and his commitment to the people of Kremmling through his amazing generosity and stellar work.

“He blessed us all with his photographs,” the Grand Gazette wrote. “He worked tirelessly to showcase the best of Kremmling and ultimately its youth. From state send-offs, senior nights, 4-H youth shows, and events, he captured memories for us all and shared them generously.”

A statement from West Grand School District echoes the Gazette in noting the immense impact Wilson had on the community. Wilson taught in the district for 35 years and district officials credit him with bringing the observatory to the school.

“Nobody cared more for the kids in West Grand than did Mike,” the statement reads. “Mike was ‘that teacher’ for so many, as he impacted several generations of Mustangs. Mike truly cared about his students. He gave them his time and lots of it. Mike could be found anywhere a West Grand event took place, taking amazing pictures and capturing the moments.”

West Grand plans to host a celebration of life later this spring once gathering restrictions are loosened and will release more details when they’re available.

“Mike Wilson will be dearly missed,” West Grand continued. “We mourn his loss and want to celebrate his life and contribution to our school and community.”

The Gazette’s Facebook post encouraged people to share memories and photos of Wilson, along with photos that he had taken.

In an outpouring of support, the post had more than 100 comments and shares by Sunday afternoon, many from former students, friends and community members noting the impact Wilson had on their lives.

“He lived life fully,” the Gazette added. “He would have been 70 years old in a week, and his last days on earth were spent with West Grand wrestlers on Friday and then skiing at A-Basin on Saturday.”

According to the Gazette, plans for a celebration of life will be shared after they’ve been solidified.