Mountain Fitness, whose owner drew inspiration from seniors who were committed to staying physically fit, has closed after more than a decade as a mainstay of Eatonville’s business community.

The newly retired Nancy Mettler (pictured), herself a fitness buff as an avid hiker, snowshoer and skier, cherishes memories of older clients “who were fitness success stories,” Mettler said.

“Staying active helps so much with independence,” she said. “One lady had a prosthetic leg and lung problems but still came in several times a week to maintain as much mobility as possible. She never complained and always was so positive. Of course, there is also Bea. Over 90 and well-known to the entire community. She would drive her cart to the fitness center daily and do more than people half her age.”

In addition to her business, Mettler’s community involvement has included drives she helped organize during the Christmas holidays for donations of hundreds of bicycles and clothing for needy children. The items were distributed in recent years through Eatonville Family Agency.

Mettler, reflected on her business career, said her virtually lifelong participation in sports and the outdoors drew her into the fitness business.

“I’ve always been involved in some form of athletics, from playing high school and college varsity sports, to hiking and exploring with my sons when they were young,” Mettler said. She noted  her summers are spent backpacking and climbing “a good deal of time.” In the winter, she switches to snowshoeing and skiing.

“The last five years, I’ve had four knee operations, including two ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) replacements and an artificial knee. Without the fitness center to keep me active and help with rehab, I doubt that I’d be able to explore the outdoors as much as I do,” she said.

Over the years, many of Mountain Fitness’ clients have been “an inspiration to many of us” with their commitment to fitness, Mettler related.

“One lady had a prosthetic leg and lung problems but still came in several times a week to maintain as much mobility as possible. She never complained and always was so positive,” Mettler said. “Of course, there is also Bea. Over 90 and well-known to the entire community. She would drive her cart to the fitness center daily and do more than people half her age.