Friends of Roger Grantham, one of Whistler’s best loved sons of the 1970s, will celebrate his life by hosting the "4 th Up North." dinner dance benefit at Hoz’s Pub in Creekside on July 4.
Long time residents will know him as a much decorated Vietnam War Veteran who made his way to Whistler in 1971.
"Roger Grantham’s life symbolised in the many ways the friendships and shared good times between Canadian and American residents and visitors," said his close friend Joe Weiler.
Roger left Whistler to live in Maui in 1976 but he maintained his friendships with his Whistler pals by visiting here with his family each year during the first two weeks of July.
He always considered Canada to be his adoptive country and Whistler to be his second home.
"He became one of the original group of larger-than-life characters that helped build the legendary lore of Whistler’s early resort life," Weiler said.
While in Whistler, Roger helped to organise the "Freaker’s Ball," an annual end of season bash at the Old Whistler Lodge at Alta Lake.
After a long fight against cancer, Roger passed away in March in Maui where he worked as a successful real estate broker.
The group of musicians who played at the ball will re-unite on July 4 for this special commemorative benefit. It is an open invitation event.
Roger’s friends in Whistler and Vancouver are organising the event and proceeds will go towards assisting his two young daughters with their education.
