Harald F. Ring
June 12, 1943 – Aug. 29, 2025
Harry Ring, 82, of Big Sky, Montana, passed away on Aug. 29, 2025.
Born in Norway on June 12, 1943, to Esther Jorgensen Ring and John Lars Ring, Harry led a vibrant life rooted in adventure, athleticism, and love—especially for his wife of nearly 59 years, Peggy Winn Ring.
An accomplished skier from a young age, Harry began skiing at age three and was competing in cross-country events by ten. He went on to excel in Nordic Combined and gymnastics at Shoreline High School in Washington, qualifying for the Nordic Junior Nationals four consecutive years. His athletic talent earned him a ski scholarship to Montana State College (now MSU), where he joined the Bobcat ski team.
Harry’s passion for skiing extended into his professional life. He became a certified alpine ski instructor, clinician, and examiner with the Northern Rocky Mountain Ski Association, and spent a decade racing in the Masters Ski Racing program. In 1995, he earned gold medals in both the downhill and combined events at Mount Alyeska.
He co-owned the ski department at Bozeman’s Beaver Pond and later became co-owner and manager of Lone Mountain Sports at Big Sky, where he helped shape the local ski community with his energy, expertise, and leadership.
Outside of ski season, Harry was a longtime commercial fisherman in Alaska, a career he humorously described as “a summer job I never quit.” Starting at 16, he spent more than 55 years in the industry, eventually owning and operating a fleet of three vessels.
Harry met Peggy Winn while attending MSU, and the couple married after graduation. Together, they shared a lifetime of adventure—skiing, horseback riding, tennis, golf, windsurfing, and sailing. They divided their time between Montana and Florida, always returning to Big Sky for ski season.
Known for his warmth, generosity, and ever-present smile, Harry was a friend to all. His signature bear hugs and easy laugh left lasting impressions, and he lived by the simple philosophy: speak kindly of others.
He is survived by a wide circle of friends and extended family who cherished his presence.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Peggy Winn Ring
Feb. 13, 1944 – Sept. 15, 2025
Peggy Winn Ring passed away on September 15, 2025, reuniting with her beloved husband, Harry. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, and raised along the Hudson River in New York, Peggy was a spirited and adventurous soul. She was a skilled sailor, a dedicated educator, a passionate skier, and a fearless explorer of the outdoors.
After graduating from Montana State College in 1966, Peggy married Harry and began a life filled with love, creativity, and community. They were among the early pioneers of Big Sky, Montana, where Peggy made her mark as a teacher, ski instructor, horseback rider, business owner, artist, and dear friend to many.
Her boundless energy, artistic flair, and deep love for nature inspired everyone who knew her. A devoted Christian Scientist, Peggy lived her life with grace, strength, and unwavering positivity.
Peggy’s legacy is one of kindness, courage, and a deep appreciation for life’s beauty. She will be missed dearly.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter. A celebration of life for both Peggy and Harry will be held July 2026.
