Friends,
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of one of Minocqua Winter Park’s founders and biggest supporters, Wes Doak. He passed, surrounded by his family, on January 18, 2025.
Since the early 1970s, Wes was instrumental in lobbying for, planning, developing, and growing MWP with friends and co-founders Dan Clausen, Eric Wuennenberg and Dave Sconzert ahead of the park’s opening on December 15, 1979.
As an avid cross country skier and PSIA-certified instructor, Wes loved nothing more than to share the joy of cross country skiing with others. He taught lessons at MWP from 1979-82 and coached the Marshfield Senior High School team in the 80’s and 90’s, leading them to a state championship in 1991.
Wes also served on the MWP Board from 2018-24. He could often be found in recent years in his MWP Ambassador vest eager to help or talk with any and all visitors. When he wasn’t directly assisting or entertaining skiers, he was likely down in the waxing room perfecting skis for the trail conditions, building and enjoying bonfires around the trails and on event evenings, or setting up and perfecting the Park’s sound system (his second favorite interest and hobby next to skiing).
He devoted much time and energy in preparation of the 45th anniversary of Minocqua Winter Park; the historical booklets he put together are displayed in the chalet and are a testament to his love and commitment to the Northwoods cross country community.
Wes, and his infinite enthusiasm and dedication to MWP, will be deeply missed. A Celebration of Life will be held later this year. To honor Wes at this time, please post photos and favorite memories on his page at Bolger Funeral: https://www.bolgerfuneral.com/m/obituaries/wesley-doak/Memories.
Our peaceful wishes go out to his loved ones.
