The co-founder of the popular New Hampshire ski area was 87.
Friday, December 5, 2025, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
Pats Peak co-founder and owner Wayne Patenaude passed away yesterday at the age of 87.
Patenaude was born on January 22, 1938 and grew up in Henniker, New Hampshire. Soon after graduating from Henniker high school, Patenaude acquired Contoocook Artesian Well Company from Albert Wilder.
A few years later, Patenaude joined his brothers and father in constructing Pats Peak ski area. The area opened on January 5, 1963, quickly growing to become one of the most popular ski operations in the state. In a world of corporate consolidation, Pats Peak has remained under the ownership of the Patenaude family for over 60 years.
In addition to the ski area and well drilling company, Patenaude and his wife Sally also owned and operated Boulder Strawberry Farm in Hopkinton for a number of years.
