Mourning the loss of JW Wiseman, Founder of Swiss Valley
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jim (‘JW’) Wiseman, owner and founder of Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area. In 1968, Jim, a high school principal and former wife Sandra Wiseman, purchased a small ski area in rural Southwest Michigan with a dream and a disciplined work ethic. He devoted the rest of his life and many years of hard work to build and grow a thriving snow sports business.
For more than 5 decades, hundreds of thousands of guests have learned to ski and snowboard on the slopes of Swiss Valley, warmed up around the fireplace, and après ski with winter friends in the Chalet. He created a very special place that has been enjoyed by generations.
JW passed away with his 3 daughters (Susie Wiseman, Jamie Wiseman Stafne, and Missy Wiseman Steil) and his Life Partner, Linda Benthin at his side. His legacy will live on through the thousands of skiers and snowboarders he has positively impacted over the past 53 seasons.
This season, we ask our Swiss Valley alums to dust off their skis and snowboards and make some turns in honor of JW.
We will also close the ski area Thursday, January 6 so that the family and employees may attend the funeral.
