Dave Petman

Dave Petman, known as “Super Dave “and “PMan,” passed away on March 30, 2026 at the young age of 62. We all were so hopeful that he could beat his diagnosis of Melanoma, which he received in November 2025.

Dave’s early life was part of the Riverlea Boys, who all grew up together as young boys and teenagers, swimming at the locks, swimming off his parents’ dock on the Muskoka River on Riverlea Rd., and having the best time of his life with friends all summer long.

He delivered newspapers with a neighbour’s pony. He was on the swim team, spending many early mornings in the pool. He was also on the swim team for one of the camps here in Muskoka. Dave took many canoe trips into the Algonquin Park interior. He learned to ski at Curlew Ski Hill off Hwy 11, where he found his passion. Dave then progressed into one of the most amazing skiers at Hidden Valley Ski
Club. 

Back in the 80s, he worked as the first Pro Ski Patroller for 10 years, flying from one hill to the next run when he needed to get to an accident. He made many lifelong friends on the hill, many gone now, too.
His manager, Hans Nischen, who has a ski run named after him, told Dave they were going to open a combined Pro Shop & Ski Store. He wanted Dave to be the supervisor of the store and ski & boot rental Pro shop. Dave wanted to stay outside to ski, so he said no to Hans. Hans responded that if Dave didn’t agree, he would be without a job.

Dave ran that shop for 20 years, where he became known as “Super Dave,” the best boot fitter around. Dave had a great love for Hidden Valley and worked 7 days a week all season. It was really his life, not a job.

All the members knew and respected Dave; he helped everyone with a smile & kindness. Back in the 80s, the Ski Hill was open 7 days a week when all schools came for winter electives, and kids were all looked after by Dave.

I don’t know who called him Super Dave, but it sure stuck.

In the summer months, Dave worked in construction and became a talented contractor, eventually making this his full-time work.

Dave leaves behind his daughters, Taylor Petman, Hailey Hastings & Virginia Hastings. His wife, Eveline Hastings. His two sweet grandsons, Keano & Harlo Tulloch.

We will miss him forever & are heartbroken with his passing.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Hidden Valley Ski Club on July 8/26.

Don’t miss out on Doppler!

Sign up here to receive our email digest with links to our most recent stories.
Local news in your inbox so you don’t miss anything!

Click here to support local news