By ANDREA VAN VALKENBURG

Staff Writer

PLATTSBURGH — Raymond Labelle has always had a passion for snowmobiles — riding during the winter months and rebuilding them in the offseason.

And as the snow continued to pound Champlain Monday night, Labelle decided to take his sled out and enjoy the fresh powder with friends.

But as he sped down the southbound shoulder of Creek Road around 11:30 p.m., State Police say, he lost control of his sled and slammed into a tree, partially ejecting him from the machine.

One of the other riders called 911 and got Champlain EMS to the accident site shortly afterward, but Labelle was pronounced dead at CVPH Medical Center from injuries suffered in the crash.

The 39-year-old avid outdoorsman is survived by his longtime companion, Lisa Bodah, and two teenage daughters.

“He has always been such a great father to his two girls,” said Fran Grue, who used to rent Labelle his Champlain home before the Labelle purchased it in 2006.

As his family and friends gathered Tuesday to remember him, Grue and her husband, Dan, recalled his honest nature and love for snowmobiling and boating.

“And he’s always been such a hard worker,” Mrs. Grue said.

Chazy-based State Police said Labelle, who was recently employed at Curtis Door Systems in Plattsburgh, lost control of the sled due to unsafe speed, and troopers believe alcohol was also a factor in the crash.

NO SEAT BELT

Labelle’s accident was the second fatal crash during Monday’s snowstorm.