Mark Briel, Patrol Director
Mark has been with Four Lakes for 13 years. Mark started as a ski instructor and moved to the patrol side to learn from the best. Mark holds certifications from the the National Ski Patrol and routinely helps to train our patrol candidates as well as candidates from around the midwest. When not in training or teaching how to safely take care of patients on the hill Mark takes passion in providing a fun, yet safe environment for all patrons.
Mark is an application engineer at Sandvik and travels the world to meet with clients.
John Yunger, Assistant Patrol Director
John started skiing over 40 years ago and has been a National Ski Patroller for 14 years. John began patrolling at Four Lakes in 2012 and has a secondary patrol at Mount Bohemia in Northern Michigan. John is a Biology Professor at Governors State University and enjoys traveling abroad, biking, paddling and diving.
John has travelled to over 30 countries for work and pleasure including China, South Korea, Japan, Batswana, Chile, Argentina, Belize, Iceland, Germany, Holland, France, Austria, Nepal and India.
Bill Vala, Alpine Patroller
Bill first learned how to ski at Four Lakes Ski Area in 1984 and always dreamed of becoming a ski patroller. In 2015 his dream became a reality when he completed his training and joined the Four Lake Ski Patrol. When not patrolling Bill enjoys most outdoor activities like kayaking, boating, snowmobiling, diving, fishing and coaching his son’s sports.
Bill is a professional photographer and the owner of Chicago Producers in Forest Park.