In Memory of Linda Crutchfield seen here with Nancy Greene Raine
The sport of water skiing has lost a long-time member of its national community. Linda
Crutchfield passed away peacefully in St-Sauveur on May 23rd at the age of 84.
Linda was a member of Canada’s national water ski team for 10 years, during which
she captured numerous national titles. She also performed in an extraordinary 747
water ski shows at Expo 67 in Montreal, demonstrating remarkable dedication,
consistency, and athletic showmanship.
Her athletic career reflected an exceptional work ethic and versatility across multiple
demanding sports at the highest level of competition.
In alpine skiing, Linda is noted for placing 15th in the famed Hahnenkamm downhill in
Kitzbühel, Austria in 1961—one of the most challenging and prestigious downhill races
in the world.
She also represented Canada at the 1964 Innsbruck Olympic Games, where she was
appointed captain of the national ski team and competed in both the downhill and giant
slalom events.
Expanding her athletic range even further, Linda became the first Canadian to compete
in women’s singles luge at the 1968 Winter Olympic Games in Grenoble, where she
placed 12th.
In 1969, she was awarded the Velma Springstead Trophy, recognizing Canada’s
outstanding female athlete of the year.
Linda Crutchfield is remembered as one of Canada’s most versatile and accomplished
multi-sport athletes. Beyond her achievements, she was known as a kind, outgoing, and
generous mentor, as well as a respected ski instructor. She was widely admired by
teammates, students, and friends alike.
She embodied dedication, sportsmanship, and a lifelong commitment to excellence in
sport and in life.
Celebration of Life
Mont Habitant
12 chemin des Skieurs, Saint-Sauveur, QC J0R 1R2
June 27, 2026
Ceremony: 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Reception: 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Written by George Athans