Medicine Hat dentist and father of three killed in weekend avalanche

Posted on 4 March 2024 by Ryan Dahlman

Alberta Newspaper Group

Dr. Scott Walburger has been identified as the victim of an avalanche at Castle Wildlife Provincial Park.

Walburger, 46, died while snowmobiling with another adult male and two children in the back country between Carbondale and Castle Mountain Ski Resort around 1 p.m. Saturday when the avalanche occurred.

The other adult was able to escape with both children, however sadly Walburger was buried in the snow.

RCMP from Pincher Creek and the Southwestern Alberta Regional Search Rescue team as well as a K9 unit from Fernie Search and Rescue responded to the scene and managed to recover Walburger’s body.

A Facebook post by Medicine Hat Dental reads, “With heavy hearts, we share the news of the sudden passing of our beloved colleague and leader, Dr. Scott Walburger. It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of such an extraordinary individual who touched the lives of countless patients, peers and friends.”

The post continues, “Dr. Walburger was more than just a dentist; he was a beacon of healing, education and unwavering dedication to the highest standard of care. For decades, he selflessly served our community, leaving an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege of crossing his path.

“Walburger was a family man above all else. A dedicated father of three, and devoted husband who touched countless lives with his example of selflessness and family values. Beyond his exceptional dental expertise, his legacy shines brightly in the love and dedication he showed towards his family.”