News was received from Norway of the untimely death of Frithjof "Basse" Prydz, age 49.
Basse was a most unusual person. He lettered in tennis four times at the University of Utah, winning the WAC in both singles and doubles on the great teams led by Jim Osborne, Mike Martines and his compatriot, Jon Eric Ross.Even more impressive was Basse's storied career as a skier, where he won both the NCAA and North American championships in ski jumping. He was an All-American skier three times, winning every competition he entered.
Upon receiving his degree in engineering Basse returned to Norway where his honors continued to mount. He represented his country with distinction in both the Davis Cup and Olympic competitions; twice Basse was the Norwegian champion in ski jumping.
He was decorated by the King and won the Egebergs Honorary Trophy-the highest honor given to a Norwegian athlete.
Basse is fondly remembered by his friends as a fierce competitor, a prodigious eater and a kind and gentle soul. A constant source of amazement to those who knew him, Basse could walk flights of steps on his hands, carry on conversations in four languages (swear in six), and displayed a keen and inquisitive mind which enabled him to achieve academic excellence as well as his legendary athletic prowess. He was the precursor for many successful student-athletes from Norway at the University of Utah. Notable was his close relationship with the James Family; Harry, Margaret and the "James Girls," were a constant source of love and encouragement for Basse.
Survived by two fine sons (Frithjof and Helga), his mother, two siblings, and numerous relatives and friends. Basse will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
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