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Owners & Staff

Any business is only as good as the people work there, and we happen to believe we have the very best people. Since the beginning, Down Wind has had amazing staff members that have transformed us from a small local gear store, into a family of outdoor enthusiasts who want to share our passion with you.

Owners

Bill Thompson ice climbing in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Bill Thompson - Marquette

Bill has been at Down Wind since 1992 after he graduated from Northern Michigan University with a masters degree in Community College Teaching/Outdoor Recreation. His responsibilities include marketing, organizng the Michigan Ice Fest, and running our social media. (Funny because he is a self proclaimed computer illiterate).

In the summer Bill can usually be found climbing at the local crag, paddling the shores of Lake Superior on his SUP, or eating ice cream at Frosty Treats. When the temperature drops Bill will likely be half way up an ice climb in Pictured Rocks.

Contact Bill at downwindsports@gmail.com

Todd King - Marquette

Todd King is originally from Fraser Michigan. He came to Marquette in the fall of 1987 to attend Northern Michigan University where graduated in 1991 with a double major in conservation and outdoor recreation. He brought his experience to Down Wind Sports in the spring of 1993.

In the winter you'll find Todd on his alpine skis patrolling at Marquette Mountain, and he trades the snow for the dirt and two wheels when things warm up. Doing what he loves with his longtime girlfriend and their kids brings the biggest enjoyment of all.

Todd is does the hiring and manages all of the Down Wind Sports staff. He is also the primary buyer for many of the products at Down Wind, including alpine skis, camping equipment, kayaks and accessories.

Contact Todd at todd.dws@gmail.com
Todd King riding his fat bike on Lake Superior
Jeff Stasser Mountain Biking in Marquette Michigan

Jeff Stasser - Marquette

Growing up in the mountains of Colorado, he was raised with a strong bond to the outdoors and came to Marquette to race with the NMU nordic ski team. He is still actively involved in the Cross Country ski community in the area and really enjoys exploring of back country skiing. When the snow melts, you will find Jeff on his mountain bike or sailboat. Jeff is in charge of all of Down Wind Sports cross country ski programs and lessons. He and has implemented a program for youth mountain biking.

Contact Jeff at j_mstasser@yahoo.com

Arni Ronis - Houghton

Arni graduated from Northern Michigan University with a bachelor degree in Outdoor Recreation and a minor in business administration. After graduating he went to work for the Department of Defense on two different military bases providing outdoor recreation experiences for the military. He has been the co-owner of our Houghton store since 2000. When he's not at the shop you'll find Arni tele-skiing, climbing, biking or trying to catch any kind of fish that is willing to bite.

Contact Arni at dwsarni@gmail.com
Arni Ronis catching a trout while pack rafting in Montana's Bob Marshal Wilderness