Discussion Topic |
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jenren
Trad climber
Sac, CA
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Topic Author's Original Post - Jan 30, 2014 - 06:02pm PT
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It is with the heaviest of hearts I let the Supertopo Community know of Jay Rennneberg's Death. He was an amazing climber with a love of climbing few get to share. His spirit, knowledge of gear and love of the mountains are indescribable and could only be truly understood by looking into his soul. He was forever a Ghoulwe, come hell or high water, of which he had both. I will be forever grateful and humbled by our years together on belay and the adventures we shared. I know this will rattle our world. Details are more than sad and are better left for the Universe to sort out as to why.. He leaves behind many who loved him deeply.
Jay, you will be sorely missed.
Much love and Peace,
JenRen
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SCseagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:04pm PT
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Oh, why does the year have to start out like this. Already too many.
Thoughts, prayers for his family and friends left behind.
Susan
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mucci
Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:07pm PT
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We spoke only once, but he came off as a class act.
We also share the same birthday.
My condolences.
Mucci
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:16pm PT
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We corresponded. He was a genuinely nice person.
This is very sad. So sorry for you Jen.
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:24pm PT
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wow, that's terrible news.
sorry for your loss.
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:31pm PT
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oh no.
i'm marching off into the woods for
some meaning.
now rest sir.
you were a spirited man.
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10b4me
climber
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:31pm PT
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I am very sorry to hear this. My condolences to his family, and friends.
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Levy
Big Wall climber
So Cal
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:33pm PT
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So sad to hear this. He was a regular presence on this forum. He'll be missed. My heartfelt condolences to his family & friends.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Sport climber
moving thru
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:34pm PT
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So, so very sorry JenRen. Grief and Loss is so challenging and extremely difficult to process and to fight through. It may take some time. But please don't dwell on the what if's. Instead think of the good and the great things that you shared.
Prayers and love to you. Feel free to email me if you would like. My husband died 6 years ago. It was hard. But after struggling thru, life is good again.
Peace, Lynne
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Lollie
Social climber
I'm Lolli.
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:37pm PT
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My condolences.
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Mungeclimber
Trad climber
Nothing creative to say
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:42pm PT
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Damn
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L
climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:46pm PT
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I'm so sorry to read this, Jenren. He seemed like a lovely man.
My sincerest condolences to his friends and family.
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:50pm PT
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Yes, very sad & tragic news. I met Jay in '88 when he was a 17 year-old kid working at Sierra Outfitters in Sacramento. He was interested in learning how to climb and was soon joining us on outings in Yosemite. "Us" is an informal group of climbers & skiers collectively known as the Ghoulwe Mountaineering Club. Jay could juggle flaming torches on a unicycle (even on top of a moving van), a talent among many he possessed, and was soon entertaining us at campfires & parties on a regular basis. Nobody who has ever shared a campfire with Jay will ever forget him.
Life events took him out of our sphere for a number of years, however, he re-emerged in '06, married and ready to get back into climbing. Most of you here have read about his exploits as he and his wife set out working towards a successful climb of the Nose in '09. He was an immovable force when he set his mind to something.
All of his friends & family are still digesting this sad event and will be sharing information about a memorial for Jay as the coming days proceed.
RIP, Jay.
Dave
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Rollover
climber
Gross Vegas
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Jan 30, 2014 - 06:54pm PT
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F*#k sh#t piss..
Hang in there.
RIP Jay.
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:02pm PT
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So sad. Condolences.
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Jerry Dodrill
climber
Sebastopol
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:03pm PT
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Jen, I'm so very sad to hear this and am at a loss for words.
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Fritz
Trad climber
Choss Creek, ID
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:09pm PT
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Sorry to all that knew him for their loss of a fun & wonderful person. I feel bad that I never met the gentleman.
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rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:26pm PT
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Wow, sad news! My best to his friends and family.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:26pm PT
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My sincere condolences to his family and friends. . .
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Rocky IV
Social climber
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:28pm PT
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ah man, this is terrible. Only spent a few days shooting the sh#t with him last summer, seemed like a top notch really good guy. Wish the best for his family and many friends.
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phylp
Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:34pm PT
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I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to all his family and friends. His presence here will be missed.
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guyman
Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:50pm PT
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Very sad news.
Condolences to his many friends and his family.
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anita514
Gym climber
Great White North
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:57pm PT
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my condolences..
rest in peace
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Evel
Trad climber
Nedsterdam CO
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Jan 30, 2014 - 07:58pm PT
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Aw shoot. My Condolences to family and friends.
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RyanD
climber
Squamish
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Jan 30, 2014 - 08:02pm PT
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RIP
I always liked what he had to say, seemed like a really cool guy. Condolences to his family, Charlie D & all the rest of the ghoulwe crew who were lucky to have him while he was here.
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pa
climber
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Jan 30, 2014 - 08:04pm PT
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Already and always on the cusp of being.
My heart is with you Jen.
paola
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RonV
Trad climber
Placerville
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Jan 30, 2014 - 08:26pm PT
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I loved climbing with Jay. He energized me and pushed me in a way no other partner was able. We always had fun. I will miss him greatly.
RIP Jay
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Brandon-
climber
The Granite State.
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:16pm PT
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Rest in peace, brother. I appreciated your words. My condolences to friends and family.
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Ghost
climber
A long way from where I started
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:34pm PT
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From his posts here he always seemed like someone I'd love to meet.
RIP
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froodish
Social climber
Portland, Oregon
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:35pm PT
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Condolences to family and friends. R.I.P. Jay.
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protour
Trad climber
Concord, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:37pm PT
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Jay was an incredible motivator, he always brought out the best in his friends. I feel lucky to have known Jay he truly was an inspiration.
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this just in
climber
north fork
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:39pm PT
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Words don't do much for the grieving, but best thoughts to all who lost their friend.
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crankster
Trad climber
South Lake Tahoe, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:54pm PT
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Total bummer RIP, Jay.
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Crimpergirl
Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:54pm PT
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So sad. The world and supertopo just got a bit darker. Condolences to his family and friends.
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kaholatingtong
Trad climber
Nevada City
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:55pm PT
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My condolences. RIP J.
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johntp
Trad climber
socal
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:56pm PT
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Son of a bitch! Condolences to family and friends. I always enjoyed his posts.
Fare well Ghoulwej!
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MisterE
climber
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Jan 30, 2014 - 09:59pm PT
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So sorry to hear this, his energy and spirit really shined through his posts.
Rest in peace, Jay.
Erik
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Rhodo-Router
Gym climber
sawatch choss
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Jan 30, 2014 - 10:10pm PT
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Drat. We're with you, Jen and everyone.
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happiegrrrl
Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
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Jan 30, 2014 - 10:12pm PT
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I don't know that I ever met him in person, but of course saw his posts here on ST. I am so sorry for those close to him, so painful to feel him gone.
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rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 10:17pm PT
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I hate asking this, and I mean no disrespect, but does anyone know what happened? He still had plenty of life in him.
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nita
Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
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Jan 30, 2014 - 10:24pm PT
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So very sad....RIP....Ghoulwe .
Sending sincere condolences to Jay's friends and family...
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Petch
Gym climber
knapsack crack
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Jan 30, 2014 - 10:55pm PT
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You shall be missed.
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kunlun_shan
Mountain climber
SF, CA
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Jan 30, 2014 - 11:08pm PT
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I'm so sorry to read this. Very sad. RIP Jay!
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Gregory Crouch
Social climber
Walnut Creek, California
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Jan 31, 2014 - 12:00am PT
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Such a tremendous loss. A day we spent climbing in the Phantom Spires looms large among my favorite climbing memories. (And most oft-told tales.) I'll never forget his thermonuclear rebuttal to the obnoxious, know-it-all bumblies climbing next to us who had the gall to slag off my ragged climbing shoes and in the next sentence tell him that it wasn't safe for him to belay me with a stitch plate.
(Nearly cost me a ground fall, I was laughing so hard and fumbling over a piece.)
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JOEY.F
Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
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Jan 31, 2014 - 03:05am PT
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A treasured friend to many here.
My condolences to you.
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GDavis
Social climber
SOL CAL
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Jan 31, 2014 - 03:20am PT
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Oh no... he was always just another regular guy, a name I would see next to some posts. I am sorry for your loss, I wish I knew him better. He was a cool dude.
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The Lisa
Trad climber
Da Bronx, NY
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Jan 31, 2014 - 06:42am PT
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I enjoyed his posts here and I can see that he was a great guy from the tales related here. My condolences to his family and friends.
Lisa
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Leggs
Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:20am PT
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RIP, Jay. May that smile forever live in the hearts and memories of loved ones.
~peace, lisa mae
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FinnMaCoul
Trad climber
Green Mountains, Vermont
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:38am PT
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So sorry to hear of your loss... and the loss of a member of our community. Hoping you find peace, somehow. My sincerest condolences.
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:54am PT
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Jay's infectious energy, his intellect, hysterical tales, generosity and determination will never be forgotten.
A one of a kind, great friend and climbing partner, we'll all miss you greatly Jay.
Your buddy for life,
Charlie D.
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climbski2
Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
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Jan 31, 2014 - 09:46am PT
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To all his friends and family please know he was appreciated even here.
So sorry.
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paganmonkeyboy
climber
mars...it's near nevada...
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Jan 31, 2014 - 09:56am PT
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My Condolences to the family and friends - very sad indeed...
-Tom
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Capt.
climber
some eastside hovel
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Jan 31, 2014 - 10:41am PT
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Very sad indeed. RIP Jay. You will be missed.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Jan 31, 2014 - 11:28am PT
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Deepest condolences to family and friends. Rest in peace.
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Chiloe
Trad climber
Lee, NH
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Jan 31, 2014 - 12:50pm PT
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To Jenren and all the others who knew and loved this man, or just were glad he was there, my condolences. It's been an unexpected dimension of this forum, over the years, feeling the pain and sense of loss each time some unique individual leaves the campfire.
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stevep
Boulder climber
Salt Lake, UT
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Jan 31, 2014 - 12:55pm PT
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RIP J.
I only interacted with him here, but sincere condolences to all of you who were his friends and family. Sounds like he will be deeply missed.
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Daphne
Trad climber
Northern California
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Jan 31, 2014 - 01:03pm PT
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Mourning with my supertopo community for Ghoulwej. Jay, may you have peace. I send prayers for his friends and family for comfort in the grief.
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Vitaliy M.
Mountain climber
San Francisco
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Jan 31, 2014 - 01:08pm PT
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Condolences to his family and friends. Really sad to hear about this...
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jan 31, 2014 - 01:23pm PT
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A couple of fine folks have left the picture in the last week...Very rough news.
To all of Jay's friends and family my heart goes out to you as this situation is certainly sudden and unforeseen.
He was always an enthusiastic and solid presence here on the ST and I will miss him for that.
Get your heart checked folks.
A CT scan for calcium deposits costs about $150 out of pocket and will give you a very clear picture of the state of things unseen. For no good reason insurance doesn't cover the procedure but do it anyway.
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Bad Acronym
climber
Little Death Hollow
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Jan 31, 2014 - 03:06pm PT
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Met him once at the east pkg lot at The Leap. Incredibly nice guy. So sorry.
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scuffy b
climber
heading slowly NNW
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Jan 31, 2014 - 04:24pm PT
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I'm very sorry, Jenren
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couchmaster
climber
pdx
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Jan 31, 2014 - 04:31pm PT
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He was just posting here the other day it seems....? Condolences to Jays family and friends.
RLF said and I 2nd it: "I hate asking this, and I mean no disrespect, but does anyone know what happened? He still had plenty of life in him"
SG, did his heart go out? It's so tough to lose a loved one.
Regards to all and hug all those close to you.
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JEleazarian
Trad climber
Fresno CA
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Jan 31, 2014 - 04:35pm PT
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So very sorry to hear the news, JenRen. My deepest sympathy goes to all who knew him.
John
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looking sketchy there...
Social climber
Latitute 33
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Jan 31, 2014 - 04:43pm PT
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Deepest condolences to family and friends.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jan 31, 2014 - 06:44pm PT
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While one can understand that Jen is upset, it is somewhat rude for this to go on without an explanation for the rest of us.
What happened?
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goatboy smellz
climber
लघिमा
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Jan 31, 2014 - 06:55pm PT
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I always enjoyed his posts and comments.
Deep condolences to friends and family.
Stay strong and remember/celebrate the time you had together.
Personally, do not need to know any details of his passing as long
as it does not affect anyone else out in this world.
Some things are better left unsaid.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Jan 31, 2014 - 07:11pm PT
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hey there say, jenren...
oh my, very very sad to hear this... very sad and i don't know what else to say, :(
condolences and prayers to you, his family and loved ones and taco-buddies and all that knew him...
i too, have seen his posts here and enjoyed seeing him here... and will really miss that, though i did not know him, as you all did.. .:(
hugs to you all... very sad... :(
may our prayers and wishes help you be strong through the future days, without him... :(
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Jan 31, 2014 - 07:19pm PT
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hey there say, dave johnson...
thank you very kindly, for sharing more about the friend 'behind the name' and thus letting us know who he was, in a deeper way, for those of us that only knew him, by the taco posts...
deep condolences, as to the loss of a good friend... :(
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Barbarian
climber
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Jan 31, 2014 - 07:27pm PT
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My condolenses go out to his family and loved ones. Rest in Peace.
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Ezra Ellis
Trad climber
North wet, and Da souf
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:13pm PT
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A bright light extinguished too early,
I am sorry,
Cyber hug
Ezra
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McHale's Navy
Trad climber
From Panorama City, CA
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:52pm PT
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Geez. Sad. Rest in Peace.
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Mike Bolte
Trad climber
Planet Earth
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:53pm PT
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So very sorry to read this... my very best wishes to all his friends and family. It will be hard to get through this.
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ontheedgeandscaredtodeath
Social climber
SLO, Ca
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Jan 31, 2014 - 08:59pm PT
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So sorry to hear this. I always enjoyed him here on the forum. Best wishes to family and friends.
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LilaBiene
Trad climber
Technically...the spawning grounds of Yosemite
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Jan 31, 2014 - 09:04pm PT
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JenRen, my heart goes out to you, your family and friends.
I can not even fathom the depth of the pain and the feelings of loss you must be experiencing, having been Jay's partner in life, moved by his energy and warmed by his light.
May the outpouring of love and support from friends and family help to ease your steps forward.
Wishing you peace.
Audrey
[Edited.]
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crankster
Trad climber
South Lake Tahoe, CA
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Jan 31, 2014 - 09:37pm PT
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Sounds to me like Jay needs a memorial worthy of a climber.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jan 31, 2014 - 10:09pm PT
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In light of the positive nature of his messages to me I find it hard to wrap my head around this also.
Only the best wishes to friends and family.
I am deeply troubled by this.
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GDavis
Social climber
SOL CAL
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Jan 31, 2014 - 10:13pm PT
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In light of the positive nature of his messages to me I find it hard to wrap my head around this.
I guess sometimes even sweet people hurt inside. For him to be such an outwardly positive person in the midst of what I can't imagine, he was one strong dude.
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RonV
Trad climber
Placerville
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Jan 31, 2014 - 11:15pm PT
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Jay was intense man. If you have spent any time around him you would remember him. You may have been overwhelmed by him or you may have not liked him, but he was still amazing. From setting a speed record waterskiing to Catalina in his teens, Base jumping as a 16yr old. I met Jay for the first time in the early eighties when he was manufacturing the first bungee cords with my roommate, Martin Zemitis. He had a great story (he could tell a story!) about bungee jumping live on TV during at a Sac Kings game and picking up a soda can off the floor of the arena for his sponsors.
He took up Land Cruser off road racing and turned a champagne rally into peddle to the metal Jay Show. When he returned to climbing, and the Ghoulwe club, he set his sights on El Cap (go figure). After the Nose he started competitive Sniper shooting and in typical Jay style became so good so fast that the local shooting club amended their by-laws so that Jay could join (he hadn’t been competing long enough for the previous rules), quickly became a national competitor.
Jay had an infectious personality. I could produce a long list of well known climbers who Jay called friends.
I had so many amazing days with Jay. He loved to climb and he loved to climb fast. As hyper as I am, Jay was more. We didn’t bother each other with intensity. We enjoyed the energy. Over the last year Jay climbed more and more solo. I think in the end Jay just wanted to be alone. He struck out to hurt a few who were close to him, but in the end hurt so many by leaving us. My daughter posted this after I gave her the news.
“It really sucks to not yet be 20 and feel like I have known or have been influenced by too many people who have died way too young. As someone who is a part of the skiing and climbing community it's hard to separate the "live fast and die doing what you love" mentality from my thoughts about death and I'm not sure how we all fit into the grand scheme of things, but I do know that we all need to recognize the value and fragility of our own lives. We should all strive to appreciate as many days as we can, and to remember the extent of which our individual lives are valued by others. Just remember that you are loved, and even if sometimes it doesn't seem like it, your ripple can cause waves.”
Ron Vardanega
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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To be clear, my earlier post was assumption that one so vital would pass due to cardiac issues. No intent to distort anything beyond advising folks to get themselves looked at.
Very sorry to hear that he chose to not stay around.
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mikeyschaefer
climber
Yosemite
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I can't say I knew Jay very well though I could appreciate his character. I first met him while working as a guide for YMS. He and his wife hired me to teach them how to big wall climb to ultimately attempt the nose. We had such a fun day out geeking around with all sorts of systems. He was a sponge for information and his excitement was infectious. Most days of guiding I couldn't wait till they ended but my day with Jay flew right by. He was the sort of client that made it all worth for me.
I'd seen Jay around the valley many times after our day out and it was always fun to catch up a little. He occasionally would send me a short email after hearing about a climb I had done giving me a simple congrats. It was always very appreciate.
He was the sorta climber that was the fabric of our community and I can tell there is a big hole in that fabric right now. I will surely miss Jay.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there say, jenren and family... :(
may some kind of warm unexpected love come to you, this week, to hug you, in an unexpected way, something that will ease any unsettled concerns in things not understood...
*audry, may this kind of love KEEP coming to you, as well, and as well it has...
prayers for something to happen in someway, that will hold your hand with great help as to comfort in every need...
deep condolences, once again...
:(
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OR
Trad climber
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Bahhhhhh. Peace on the other side Sir. Vibes to Jays friends and family.
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Paul H
Trad climber
Walnut Creek, CA
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Rick A
climber
Boulder, Colorado
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My deepest sympathies to JenRen, the family, and friends of Jay.
Rick Accomazzo
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TYeary
Social climber
State of decay
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Geez...condolunces to all. I am truly sorry. I have no words....
TY
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GLee
Social climber
MSO
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Jen,
You and Jay's family and friends have my deepest sympathy.
Greg Lee
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Double D
climber
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So sorry Jen, my sincere condolences to you and all his family and friends. I've only had brief contact with him and he seemed like a real stand up guy.
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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Very sorry for our loss, Taco folks.
mfm
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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This is from Jay's sister, Lana Albertson. She asked me to post it. RSVP requested via Jay's Facebook page, if possible.
"We are celebrating Jay's life this week. There will be an opportunity for visitation Wednesday,
February 5th from 4-7 pm at Mount Vernon Memorial Park. The address is: 8201 Greenback Ln, Fair Oaks. There will be a funeral on Thursday, February 6th at 2:00 pm at the same location.
If you wish to attend the funeral please comment on this post so we can estimate the appropriate number of guests.
God Speed Jay!
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crøtch
climber
Whale's Vagina
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Condolences to Jay's friends and family.
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JTele
Trad climber
Pollock Pines, CA
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My deepest condolences to Jays friends and family.. Although I only knew jay through his connections and climbing accomplishments with many of my climbing friends and mentors I knew he was a person I hoped to someday meet and climb with..i sent my thoughts the day i heard of his passing when i went on an avalanche control route this week for the first time. On my first bomb with the crew I wrote jays initials in the snow with a lit fuse of dynamite, then hucked it into the Sierra with pyramid glowing in the morning alpine glow. 90 seconds of silence, followed by a gut rattling blast that was all it took to know, Joy is with the mountains still, and will always be.
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Aki J
Trad climber
Placerville, CA
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Before I had ever met Jay, I had heard countless seemingly crazy stories about his accomplishments, his liveliness, and how personable he was. The first time I ever really talked to him, he lived up to his tales and proposed a NIAD- something still unfathomable for me. He set big goals and tried as best he could to accomplish them, often with success (and sometimes in approach shoes). I hope I take a little of that spirit away with me. I didn't know Jay for very long, but during that short time he left a great impression as both a climbing mentor and a person.
I will celebrate his life through the things he loved and the goals we set.
Love ya, man
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enjoimx
Trad climber
SLO
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Lost another friend to the same reaper on Friday. The good ones always go too early.
Sorry for your loss folks
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Jtele, great tribute to Jay setting a bomb off in the mountains. He was loud and we loved him for it, good job!!! The Ghoulwe's will be having a memorial as we move into spring or summer, likely at Lover's Leap one of Jay's favorite crags.
Aki, your time with Jay was a gift and I know you realize it with much appreciation. Many lessons there for you and your young buddies not the least of which is to live well, love much and the hardest of all life's lessons, to let go. We all stand on the shoulders of those before us, Jay got you to a higher vantage point.
You meet the greatest people in the mountains, berg heil.
Charlie D.
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Norwegian
Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
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charlie that new route we were eying last summer:
the GhoulweJ memorial route.
(no fixed portaledge, though)
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dirt claud
Social climber
san diego,ca
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Really bummed to see this thread this morning, especially the more I read and found out what a cool guy Jay was. Hope friends and family are dealing with this the best they can, sorry for your loss. Sounds like his memory and stories will be alive for many years into the future.
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splitclimber
climber
Sonoma County
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my deepest condolences to Jay's family and friends.
I met Jay one day at the leap. He was running simul laps with Hans on east wall. Full of energy and he tried his hardest to get me and Dodrill to come pack to his place to soak, drink, eat and sleep. I'm sure we missed out on a great time.
RIP Jay. :(
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nita
Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
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Broken climber, Thanks for your post...
Thinking about Jay's friends and family, sending Love & Peace your way...
Please give Jay's, Papa & Mama an extra hug...
Saludos
nita.
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michaeld
Sport climber
Sacramento
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RIP Ghoulwe.
A bad ass hero story of Jay.
http://www.friendsofyosar.org/rescues/missions/7-15-07_Prow.html
At this point the climbers resigned themselves to the realization that they had no other adequate options than to begin yelling for help. A passing climber, Jay Renneberg, equipped only with rock shoes, came to the climbers’ assistance. He solo climbed to the screaming climbers’ location and guided them down to level ground and out of harm’s way.
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Gregory Crouch
Social climber
Walnut Creek, California
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Here's the obit I just wrote for Rock & Ice:
Jay Renneberg Remembered.
My gratitude goes to Ron and Kristen Vardanega, Charlie Downs, and Dave Johnson for sharing their thoughts and memories of Jay.
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robfritz
Trad climber
Pollock Pines, CA
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It is with regret that I only spent a handful of times with Jay. However, those handful of times were enough to see how kind, generous, and stoked Jay was. I met Jay through a mutual friend because he volunteered to lend his gear and time to teach us how to aid climb(even though we had zero aid climbing experience). That same summer after a day of climbing Jay invited me and 2 friends shooting which must have cost him a pretty penny because we shot a lot of rounds... After that Jay was always willing to lend gear whenever. My point is that Jay was above and beyond generous, kind, and stoked to help a college kid he hardly knew. My sincerest condolences to everyone who had the pleasure to meet such a superb human being. The world needs more people like Jay.
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RonV
Trad climber
Placerville
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Jay loved to tell stories, and most of his friends loved to listen to them. Jay was born Jay Howard Renneberg. He was sure, although, that his middle name was Powered, which he though was great. At a kindergarten school function the truth was given to him by his mother. He sat in the back of the car crying when his mother asks "what's wrong?". "why did you name me Howard? That name sucks. I wanted to be Powered!"
RIP Jay "Powered" Renneberg.
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Ha! Ron that's a great story and heck yes Norwegian good notion about the route!!! Here's to our great partners in this game of life.....
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rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
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The stories from those who knew him, either briefly or long term, are wonderful!
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SCseagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz
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^^^^what he said. I never met him, but that smile just takes my breath away. It's hard to imagine it lives on in pictures and memories only.
So many thoughts fir his friends and family.
Susan
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there say... michaeld...
thank you for sharing a link and more about jay...
the rescue story was very special... something those folks
will never forget... a story for the story-teller himself
to have enjoyed later, in sharing...
prayers for his family and loved one to be strong, through
the next parts of this hard sad journey...
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
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Sorry to hear this. God bless you, Jay!
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LuckyPink
climber
the last bivy
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warm enfolding hug to Jay's close ones, wife, dad, mom and friends. so sad to hear this. Jay was daily a brave man.
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RasVegas
Trad climber
Goodyear
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Damn people! Seems like every damn time I read these updates, a brother or sister is going to the big wall in the sky! It seriously bums me out!
God bless the friends and family of our brother! Rest if peace!
PLEASE be extra careful everybody. Be smart, be sensible. Be extra careful with your "pro", and be safe.
I would really like to go the rest of the year without hearing about anybody else.
Please!?!?
Much love and respect to all.
Peace,
RV
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jenren
Trad climber
Sac, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Feb 5, 2014 - 05:58pm PT
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"His dad and sister are extremely upset by Mr. Couch's comment earlier. It was not his place to divulge this to the world for many reasons. 1) Mr. Renneberg did not want this 'spread' throughout our communities, it is too soon. 2) Jay has two teenage nephews that know he passed, but not the manner. The coroner has reported that the cause can be described as an aneurysm." (He should talk to girl friend Cheryl Mattox about respect)
I have been avoiding the forum, but am being pummeled with updates..
First, I appreciate everyones positive comments, contibutions and pictures regarding Jay..We were together nearly twenty years...I meant what I said when I first posted...Greg Crouch should not be chided for his comments...Jay's girlfriend(who had him arrested the night before his death) has let it be known Jay took his life..unfortunately for all, the survivors are the ones who deal with the delicate balance of respect when trying to deliver the heart wrenching news of someone passing.... Jay had some connection with so many people in the climbing community. Anyone remember the "sea of Sierra Nevada" at the 50th anniversay of Half Dome? The climbing community, he felt, WAS his true family,GHOULWE! He deserves to not have stupid rumors spread about how he died, it's disrespectful and confusing. Greg was merely trying to help bring light to normal questions about how someone was lost to us.
Anyone who had ever shared a rope with Jay shared his life with him. Greg as well as myself, many Ghoulwes(Charlie, Dave, Ron...) and Akio were part of that life with Jay. His death will resonate in our memories, the stories will be told around campfires and laughter will be shared in his memory(perhaps even a Ghoulwe chant)..always. The horrible and sad circumstances of how he died were unneccessary AT BEST and could have been avoided, in my personal opinion, and I knew him well. That being said, Jay is now free of that most compeling reason to leave us, his legacy and spirit of adventure behind. Peace to all of you.
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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The last photo I took of Jay, last year at the Pipeworks, Sacramento. He liked it outdoors a lot better.
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Hardman Knott
Gym climber
Muir Woods National Monument, Mill Valley, Ca
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Nice post, Jenren. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and to all who knew Jay.
So sad.
If you don't mind my asking, what is a ghoulwe?
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Gregory Crouch
Social climber
Walnut Creek, California
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Thanks Jeanette. We all miss Jay, and such a loss is always hard to deal with.
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Chaz
Trad climber
greater Boss Angeles area
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You gotta love a guy who's smiling in every picture! God bless Jay and everyone who knew him.
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Footloose
Trad climber
Lake Tahoe
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Heartbreaking.
Obviously an adventuresome spirit full
of passion for life and living large if ever there was one.
Climb on, Ghoulwe Jay!
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Gilroy
Social climber
Bolderado
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However they leave us (and I've had a couple close friends take themselves out)it is still very hard for the survivors to deal with the loss. You all have my sympathy and understanding about how you want this valued person remembered. But honesty is the best policy for those of adult understanding.
It seems Jay brought a lot of happiness to his scene. I always read his contributions here because of his obvious stoke. A positive voice of determination, compassion and consistency.
Climb on, Ghoulwe Jay Renneberg.
Gilroy
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jenren
Trad climber
Sac, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Feb 6, 2014 - 02:04pm PT
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" What is a Ghoulwe"?
Well the Ghoulwes are a mountaineering group formed from some of the finest climbers and people the climbing community has to offer...mind you I am somewhat bias..
The name came to be decided upon similarly to when King Solomon was trying to decide an argument between two women claiming a baby belong to them. Ultimately in his infinite wisdom he told the women since he could not get one or the other of them to give up the child, he would have to cut the baby in half and give half to each...the real mother quickly ordered King Solomon to give the child to the other woman in order to spare her child's life..King Solomon awarded the true mother her child....
Well that's not exactly how 'Ghoulwe' was decided but it did come from an argument about whether or not a recent ascent would be considered a couloir or a gulley. The group was quite united at this time in adventures and debauchery so was in need of an identity..so after much deliberation and libations the compromise was that the ascent would be known as a Ghoulwe(from couloir/gulley) and the group from that time forward would be forever known as the same....I believe that to be an accurate history..sort of..and I just kinda threw the King Solomon reference in for entertainment purposes...
Today is Jay's funeral. Thank you again for everyones best wishes. I know Jay would be very touched.
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Ezra Ellis
Trad climber
North wet, and Da souf
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Rest in peace Jay, God speed.
So sorry.
The best people often leave before we're ready.
Ezra
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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I want to thank everyone for expressing their heartfelt thoughts, we have a great community of mountain zealots. Jay's memorial service was yesterday, I had the honor to say a few words and thought that my closing remark would be fitting to relate here on ST:
"We love you Jay, you taught us much and graciously gave life's greatest gift of all...your time with so much passion and love."
I went on to thank everyone who came to honor the life of such a great friend. We'll always treasure the adventures and times we shared with such an extraordinary man.
Charlie D.
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Gregory Crouch
Social climber
Walnut Creek, California
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Your words were excellent, Charlie. And much appreciated. A heart-felt tribute to a fine man.
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jenren
Trad climber
Sac, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Feb 7, 2014 - 05:30pm PT
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Charlie...
I know Jay would be so grateful for your words. The service depicted him as a loner..he was far from alone( I guess until recently?). In our life, he was surrounded by people or loved ones and has a child who is his namesake from a step-daughter(he helped raise). She loved him so much she used to tell people he was her father and I was her step-mother. Funny at the time. They had kept in touch even after we had seperated. Some how these details were deleted from his life. Out of respect for his father yesterday I kept my tongue, but it was not easy. I have nearly 20 years of video, photos, letters, cards and momentos showing a much different picture than what was painted for a somewhat confused crowd( I knew nearly everyone there) from when we were married. So without further lamenting about the shallowness of the service. I am so grateful for your words, they were more than appreciated and appropriate...it was funny when the Pastor wanted to argue about God with you... ;)
Jay coached Jake (we had to do something about two 'Jays', as they would both answer!) in climbing..he was "Pappa" He was loved and not alone...
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jenren
Trad climber
Sac, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Feb 7, 2014 - 05:45pm PT
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Thanks for letting me get that out...it was weird to have him look like some guy without roots or history with family..Peace
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nita
Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
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Jenren, Thank you for the sweet pictures, and your tribute to Jay.
Peace
Saludos
nita...
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Gregory Crouch
Social climber
Walnut Creek, California
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Bitchin pictures, Jen.
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bixquite
Social climber
humboldt nation
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infected by your stoke Jay. Thank you all for the beautiful words in a world of mixed messages.
Love the people who walk into our lives and smile at the mystery that is this universe. I'll do a
paddle out for you Jay and sprinkle some chalk in the ocean. To his family and friends, I send you
all a warm hug and a soft catch.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Our last correspondence 5 days before last Christmas;
I have a whole collection of Bertrand Russell.
Oh to have the time and the eyes to read like I used to.
cheers
Ron
Ron,
I hear you. Time has never been so scarce as it is in todays 'modern age".
Enjoy your holiday.
Jay Renneberg'
I am so sad we never met.
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Fletcher
Gym climber
A very quiet place
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I knew his name, but never really knew the person until I noticed this sad news just tonight. Reading straight through these posts I know a lot more about a complex man who lived fully and was loved. I'm so sorry he is no longer with us. And I'm sorry this is the way I had to learn about such a big spirit. Peace to all.
Eric
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Stu Ball
Social climber
San Diego, Ca.
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JAY RENNEBERG … THE MAN THE MYTH THE LEGEND ...
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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Feb 10, 2014 - 01:20pm PT
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Nice post, Charlie; thanks. And jenren, thanks for your elaboration on Jay, the man (and your Ghoulwe history lesson). Trust that another memorial will be organized that gives everyone the chance to paint and celebrate the total picture that was Jay.
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phile
Trad climber
SF, CA
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Feb 10, 2014 - 02:02pm PT
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Sad and beautiful. RIP.
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dirt claud
Social climber
san diego,ca
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Feb 11, 2014 - 12:05pm PT
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The more I read about Jay, the sadder I get. Really a bummer. Hope your days are filled with more good memories and less sadness.
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SCseagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz
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Feb 12, 2014 - 12:57am PT
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Turning the big prayer wheel today for Jay at Land of Medicine Buddha in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Another turn for all the other lost Taco Heads.
Susan
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Feb 12, 2014 - 05:36am PT
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hey there say, jenren... as to my post, below... i just made an edit:
EDIT: say, i meant my post, as to this part, of how you said he was such a loving man with the kids, etc... I HAD NOT YET, backtracked and seen that there was some more things going on, and i was not addressing those--didn't want you to think i was getting into stuff that i don't know...
it was just for these lovely photos and how you wished his father? i think it was, or someone, had not presented him as a loner:
here is my post:
oh my... with all my heart, i am so very glad you shared this... full pictures, really DO need to be seen...
after all:
the one being presented, is NOT seen anymore... we can't let something
precious be wasted, even if it was a part that the other folks never saw--it was good for your to share here...
most likely it may have stirred someone up wrong and backfired on you, so you were prudent to hold back, your feelings, then... though, would have been nice if the freedom had been there...
sure loved seeing that he had such happiness with all the kids in these photos... :)
god bless and once again, prayers at this sad and hard time... :(
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Jim Clipper
climber
from: forests to tree farms
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Feb 12, 2014 - 08:42am PT
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Feb 12, 2014 - 11:58am PT
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Jay and I climbed RA to Crest Jewel the spring before last, great fun and a fine day in the mountains. Here's our late friend on top of North Dome that afternoon:
I actually caught Jay with a hip belay when he slipped on some wet moss leading up high on RA, we were doing running belays up the route. Such fond memories of a super energized partner, the day exhausted my 60+ year old body, I think it simply relaxed Jay, RIP buddy.
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Brokedownclimber
Trad climber
Douglas, WY
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Feb 12, 2014 - 08:02pm PT
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I didn't know Jay, but he was a member of our tribe here at S-T and he'll be missed. I always enjoyed his posts here, so my sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones, and many friends.
BDC
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Ward Trotter
Trad climber
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Feb 28, 2014 - 07:37pm PT
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I did not know Jay either, although I may have exchanged a word or two with him on this forum.
I extend my deepest heartfelt respects and condolences.
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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Feb 28, 2014 - 08:29pm PT
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Still processing the fact that I'm not going to get any more texts from Jay on summits.
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elcap-pics
Big Wall climber
Crestline CA
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Wow.. I have just, tonight, learned from the Forum, about Jay's passing. I had spent the most of last winter on cruise ships and when I returned in late April, I heard nothing about it.
What a sad thing to learn about... Jay was one great man and I always had the utmost respect for him and his passion for the outdoors, and climbing in particular. We became good friends while he and Jen were training for and eventually climbing the Nose. Those were some good times!
He will not be forgotten by anyone who knew him and all I can say is that his was a life well lived... and that is about the best thing we can say about anyone's life. He was loved and will be missed...
Tom Evans
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BLUEBLOCR
Social climber
joshua tree
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Cool Tom.
There is another thread for him on the recent memorial aswell.
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Ron Cox
climber
Hendersonville
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Oct 29, 2014 - 09:29am PT
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Condolences to all that knew Jay the closest. I can remember Jay the best when I watched him uni-cycle on top of Mark Udons UHaul truck juggling flaming torches on New Years Eve prior to the Udons move to Oregon. It was alway's nice sharing a fire with him and all of the other Ghoulwes at our campsites in Yosimite and other gathering locations. Blessings to all of our old Ghoulwe friends and RIP Jay.
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Dave Johnson
Mountain climber
Sacramento, CA
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Oct 29, 2014 - 10:45am PT
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Ronnie! On a climbing forum...once a Ghoulwe, always a Ghoulwe! Get in touch, bro. Yes, I remember New Years '90 very well, what a party.
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Aki J
Trad climber
Placerville, CA
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Jan 28, 2015 - 08:11pm PT
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Ghoulwe
Trad climber
Spokane, WA
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Jan 29, 2015 - 02:11am PT
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Thanks for the memory Aki.
Eric Barrett
Ghoulwe Mountaineering Club
Spokane WA
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Jan 29, 2015 - 08:10am PT
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Thanks Aki, we all miss Jay. Always such great fun with Jay around. BTW I'll be in Bozeman a week from tomorrow so let's connect. No ice for me but I'd be up for some skiing!!!
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dirt claud
Social climber
san diego,ca
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Jan 29, 2015 - 12:25pm PT
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Hope Jays family and friends have coped ok with his passing over the last year. May he still bring joy to your lives through his memory.
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LIZWANTSTOCLIMB
climber
Sacramento, CA
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There's not a day that goes by that I don't think about Jay. The man was just such a big part of my life and heart, and growing up with him- he was a very big rock in my life. I'm still coming to terms with losing him, and I still find it very hard to even find the words to say about about this. When he left- everything I knew growing up left too except memories.
Hope you and Kirby are looking down happily knowing it's probably warmer when you're climbing in heaven, than living in Minot.
-Liz
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LilaBiene
Trad climber
Technically...the spawning grounds of Yosemite
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Feb 20, 2016 - 06:09pm PT
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I listened to this song for the first time this afternoon while running. As I ran and listened to the words, my thoughts turned to Jay and some comforting words he left for me after one of my TRs.
I wish I could have met him.
[Click to View YouTube Video]
You're not forgotten, Jay...in my imagination you're climbing with Dolt...
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
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Feb 20, 2016 - 07:20pm PT
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I'm so sorry for everyone's loss. Jay sounds like a great guy who left Earth far to soon.
May HaShem comfort you all and may you cherish his memory.
Until you meet again ...
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