Photo courtesy Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing

By CKPG Today

Helicopter crash

Prince George helicopter pilot dies fighting wildfires in Alberta

Jul 5, 2021 | 3:27 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — A Prince George helicopter pilot lost his life last week while battling a wildfire west of Edmonton.

Forty-eight-year-old Heath Coleman was a helicopter pilot with Yellowhead Helicopters and base manager at Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing in Blue River.

According to his colleagues, Heath loved to fly and was one of the most experienced pilots in the industry.

In a statement, the extended Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing family said although his home was Prince George, his second home, where he spent half his time from October to May each year, was Wiegele World in Blue River.

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“Heath loved to fly and was one of the most experienced pilots in the industry. While at Wiegele’s, Heath welcomed the opportunity to socialize with guests and was fondly embraced by those who returned year after year. He was a respected, trusted and highly valued member of our team and we are filled with sadness as we mourn the loss of someone we have known so well for so long and hold very dear to our hearts.”

He leaves behind his wife Jennifer and their two young adult sons.If you would like to help support Heath’s family during this difficult time, hit this link to find out more.