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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Original Post - Jul 20, 2007 - 08:34pm PT
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This is so hard to post. Pesonally I still am hoping he's on a Russian submarine somewhere yet to be released....
Nevertheless, we can still celebrate the life and times of this great man. Please post your stories, photos and thoughts - I know there are many!
Thank you Michael for all that you have given us and all that you have taught us. You truly have been a shining star to all that have met you.
To Marci and Nikki, I think I can speak for all of us here; Our thoughts and spirits are with you and if you ever need anything, know that we are here for you. May peace be with you.
May you forever be at peace Michael!
With much love, John Bachar
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jul 20, 2007 - 08:45pm PT
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Cheers Michael, see you again soon enough.
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Ezra
Trad climber
WA, NC
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Jul 20, 2007 - 08:52pm PT
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I never knew Michael, but always respected him as an individual.
My mother-in-law was one of the most amazing people I've ever known. She died 2 1/2 years ago of ovarian cancer. The fact that Michael donated a day of his life for an ovarian cancer fund raiser for HERA speaks volumes about who he was, and is.
See you on the other side Michael.
-ezra
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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 20, 2007 - 09:18pm PT
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A couple months ago I went soloing with Reardon in Clark Canyon. He pretty much followed me around on-sight soloing everything I did. We had an on going thing whereby if we were soloing together we could ask for a "verbal top rope" from whoever was in front. This day he didn't need much of that as we mostly went cruising 5.10 stuff.
We walked in front of this route early in the day and he asked me about it. It's an unnamed 5.11a (rated 11d in the guide). Later that day he said he had "a hard-on" for that climb so we went back to it.
He didn't want any Beta for the route. I told him Lonnie soloed it but couldn't do the last move past the top anchors (the anchors are five feet below the top and the rock gets chossy there as well) and had to grab the bolts to get off. As it turns out Michael couldn't do the moves either (he'd also want me to tell you he free soloed it at 5.11a, A1). Anyway, I took this photo of him on-sight soloing the climb.
It was quite beautiful to watch.
Edit:
This was also the last time I had the pleasure of climbing with him. See you at the next crag bro!
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James Doty
Trad climber
Idyllwild, Ca.
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Jul 20, 2007 - 09:21pm PT
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I lost a loved one once to violent crime and the shock was like nothing I ever experienced in my life. The portrayal in the movies of falling to your knees and wailing uncontrollably is not exaggerated. I drowned myself in alcohol for months after to try and kill the pain. Only time worked. Now I hold only the memories of the specialness of my friend. To Mr. Reardons' family and many, many friends I can only say the deep pain will eventually fade and only joy of his existence will remain. Be patient and strong. Great Chief Crazy Horse, who was a hero to my friend, used to say "Hoka Hey" before charging into battle. This translates to "today is a good day to die". To me it means simply to live every day as if Death were around the corner because it is. I believe Mr. Reardons' life embodied this philosophy. He did not fear Death and thereby let it rule his life. He embraced life because he knew Death was near. Hold loved ones dear and let compassion in for others while there is still time. I say this to myself as much as any of you. Let the Spirit fly!
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b.p.
climber
bishop
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Jul 20, 2007 - 09:51pm PT
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Flooded in the light
So warm, of a morning sunshine
I honor the pain
That distills each moment.
The spirit
shivers and rests
On a beam of sunshine...
Wondering, wondering
Breathlessly
Sometimes, I catch a glimpse
The endless turning,
The spin of time.
The only way to say thank you and good-bye is to keep alive the memory of whatever has affected us, to store in our silence whatever we have loved.
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 20, 2007 - 11:12pm PT
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So well said John, I am sorry you have lost such a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are for his wife and daughter that they can continue with the least resistant path and that they too can heal from this, although the loss of a loved one is never totally healed.
Peace
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Curt
Boulder climber
Gilbert, AZ
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Jul 20, 2007 - 11:18pm PT
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I posted this on another climbing website, but it seems to be appropriate to also place it here.....
"... I enjoyed the time I spent bouldering with Michael in Joshua Tree and the times we spent together at the Crossroads Cafe and/or around the campfire where talk of epics and spinning tall tales was the norm. When ever I would fall off some horrendously thin boulder problem and smack my knee or elbow, etc. on the rock, Michael would laugh his ass off. Naturally, when he would then also fall on the same problem, he would laugh his ass off just as hard. That's just the way he was. I'm convinced that if climbing with Michael didn't get you excited about climbing, you were probably already dead yourself.
Michael always had about 50 things going at any one time (as far as I could tell) and I remember that he was quite happy that I could introduce him to John Gill when John and I were on a bouldering trip to the Sierra a few years ago. The interview that Michael did at our cabin appeared in his film about John Bachar and free soloing. You may have liked Michael or you might not have liked Michael, but he was an extremely colorful personality--and the world of climbing will be considerably more gray without him....."
Curt
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devaki
Trad climber
socal
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Jul 20, 2007 - 11:40pm PT
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Dear Michael,
Thank you for the inspiration, thank you for the laughs, thank you for your support and most of all thank you for your kindness-- to a man who solos everything- you made me do my first lead-- you will always be in my heart- and I will see you in every ray of sunshine...peace my friend-- Marcie and Nikki- if you ever need anything, please call.... Damo, he would be proud-- you meant so much to him....
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sister mercy
Trad climber
Eastside
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Jul 20, 2007 - 11:58pm PT
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I was lucky to meet MR twice.
The first time, at Tahquitz, I was almost getting mad at the guy who appeared to be racing ahead, and then wait for his partner while securing his place in line... well, it turned out there was no partner and this guy climbed much faster than we could ever follow. In fact, he stopped to shake hands and show us a better variation, even made sure we got it before putting back on his ipod. Higher up, we met again, this time he'd gotten up and down and was oon the route nearby... At that time, I had never heard of MR but he didn't seem to care.
Second time around in JT, he still remembered us, still the same sweet unpretentious guy who appears to enjoy talking to us struggling 5.9 weekenders. Thanks Mike. You're one of a kind. We'll miss you.
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malabarista
Trad climber
San Francisco, Ca
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Jul 21, 2007 - 12:20am PT
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I'm amazed at all he accomplished and with so much energy. He can't be judged in ordinary terms. How did he fit it all in?
I raise my glass to a life well lived, and an inspiration to so many now and for the years to come.
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immanti
climber
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Jul 21, 2007 - 12:54am PT
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Good posts JB, and you speak for me as well. Although I haven't met Marci or Nikki, my heart goes out to you, I only wish there was some way we could help.
I'll tell a story. Last year after a day at the SLC trade show, we went out with Michael for dinner and drinks. Michael had been going all day and yet he had the energy to start climbing up almost every other wall we walked by. At one point, he climbed over the perimeter wall and then up the big Mormon temple out there. Now, for those who might not know, the Mormons don't play, and for two days after that Michael swore he had some guys, probably from the church, following him around. I think he was right, too.
But he was amused rather than worried. Michael radiated positive energy, and it was very contagious.
That he is lost for now is heartbreaking. That we had him at all was a blessing.
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asioux
Trad climber
pasadena,ca
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:16am PT
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Michael was a wonderful, kind human being. i will miss Michael. Thanks for the memories. That very cold day in Joshua Tree, it was so cold our ears hurt bad, and hands frozen. Climbing Ebgb's. It was a fun day. All the snow. Thanks for words of wisdom and advice on climbing rock. How being so focus you can climb anything. And milage on the rock . The conversation on the ledge on Intersection rock about Van Halen. Rock n Roll Michael, I will see you on the otherside. We will climb EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!! Armando
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:17am PT
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I'll never forget his amazing spirit and energy.
Some of my most memorable J-Tree days involved encountering Michael. I'll never forget one particular day in winter '04 at Indian Cove. My partner and a small crew of friends were over doing Pet or Meat, California Crack, Arizona Crack, etc. Michael was in the same vicinity soloing but would repeatedly come over and shout something crazy or hilarious at me when I'd get to a crux. Then he'd disappear and go solo something, then return. The process repeated itself throughout the day and my friends all came to love this crazy blond guy with more energy that God allowed. Eventually I wanted to do Monaco (beyond my lead at the time but I could follow it). Even though I had a ropegun with me, Michael offered to lead it. I think it was because all of us had spent such a great day laughing, sh*t talking, b-s'ing that the energy was so great it was worth roping up and putting on a show for the crew than going off alone and soloing again. As soon as he was on the climb he burst into a grand rendition of Mojo Nixon/Skid Roper's "Elvis is Everywhere" at the top of his lungs. By then he had the attention of everyone at the crag and even other climbers were coming over to see what the hell was going on. He kept talking about his love of Mojo and Skid the he said something about a club for naked climbers. Which the requirements were you had to climb at least one sport climb, trad climb and boulder problem naked to get in. And he's doing all this while slabbing his way up an 11a. He kept everyone at the base in stitches while leading a climb for me.
He entertained everyone around him that day. I'm sure the other climbers there who watched it will always remember the crazy blonde guy singing and talking about naked climbing while heading up a route.
Every time I've climbed Monaco since I always think of Michael and that day of crazy positive vibes. Any time you ran across Michael, you were guaranteed an amazing and hilarious time. I was lucky enough to have other great encounters like that with Michael and always looked forward to the next time I'd run into him. He was such a bright glowing ball of positive energy.
Michael, you will be missed. Next time I do Monaco, I'm going to sing that goddamn song at the top of my lungs. I'm sure in my case everyone will think I'm mentally disturbed, but the way you pulled it off was sheer showmanship!
Michael was a bright light taken from us way too soon. He was truly one of a kind.
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RW
Boulder climber
SLC,UT
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:26am PT
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Elvis Lives!
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Clint Cummins
Trad climber
SF Bay area, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:27am PT
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I never got to meet him in person, but I did get a really nice email from him last November, after I had sent him an email out of the blue, asking for details on Shikata Ga Nai, his free solo first ascent at the Needles.
I also enjoyed the cool funny stuff on his website - in particular the story about the Anonymous Shameless Superhero (ASS = nameless internet skeptic):
http://www.freesoloist.com/page15.html
My favorite part from that:
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In the 1960s through 1980s, climbing next found its center in Yosemite, where legends created climbs and vice-versa. Faced with such a concentration of notable achievements, the ASSes cried foul in a feeble attempt to diminish the greats:
“Bachar soloed New Dimensions,” spoke the truth.
“It’s not as hard when you don’t have to place gear,” spoke the ASS.
“Whatever, dude,” spoke the rest of the climbing community.
“Kauk sent Midnight Lightning,” spoke the truth.
“It’s just a boulder problem,” spoke the ASS.
“Then you do it, dumbass,” spoke the rest of the climbing community.
“Croft soloed Astroman and the Rostrum before lunch,” spoke the truth.
“But he’s not an American,” spoke the ASS.
“Shut the f*#k up!” spoke the rest of the climbing community.
----
:-)
Check out the whole thing - who knows whether the site will be preserved or disappear now.
I did some free soloing back in the days of youth. Eventually I plunged, and I was lucky that I wasn't that far off the ground and lived to learn something about myself from it. So I knew from my own solos about the tricky decisions of whether to tell people what you did, or whether to keep it to yourself. But lucky for me, I never did anything all that interesting to others, so the BS did not get to the level that he experienced. What a raw deal that was - so ironic.
RIP, Michael.
P.S. Flouride, check out the Mojo Club page:
http://www.freesoloist.com/page8.html
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:40am PT
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Hahah thanks Clint!! I remember him mentioning that the naked climbing club would give bonus points for women who stemmed. Man he was such a riot. Yet another case of Michael taking a crazy thought and making it happen! I think he already had a few members at that point. My partner at the time and I debated joining it, but I decided I'd rather not belay him if he was naked.
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Jul 21, 2007 - 01:40am PT
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Whatever Michael's doing right now, I bet it's not rest!
Some souls burn too bright to wait around for old age and stuff.
I'm sure his family will miss him terribly. You have to feel what you have to feel, but in the end I'm sure you'll realize that Michael would say "Wish me well on my journey but don't forget yours. Live life 150 percent with everything you have!"
That's what he did, and we all knew he accepted in advance that it might get cut short, so let's wish him well in it and live with gusto to honor him.
Mikey loved life and he also loved himself and what he was doing. Some folks misunderstood that to be egoic but in fact, he loved others too and supported and enthused about what they were doing as well, even if it was just a hard 5.8 for them.
When folks came down on him or disbelieved him, he liked to give em a poke or play a joke but he was too busy being high on life to slow down for it.
I'm sure he's now high on the next life, taking it for everything it's worth and more.
peace
karl
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GDavis
Trad climber
SoCal
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Jul 21, 2007 - 02:00am PT
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Hey flouride.... does this sound familiar?
(From Freesoloist.com)
Later in the day after running some laps and helping some folks get the most from their climbing, three enthusiastic climbers from the local military base stopped in for some much needed climbing. Two of them had just finished a tour overseas, the other was getting through college, and all three were having such a great time, it was infectious to the rest of us. After Todd Smith and I soloed a few easy routes, the boys were so amped up, they jumped on their hardest route to date (on a rope of course) and with all of us (including class act legends Jim Bridwell and Mike Graham) screaming support, one got the project, and the others came really close! It's moments like these that make me proud to be a climber.
Spent a few hours on his website today, for my first time. He did more in a day than I do most seasons, and kept this great attitude... truly amazing!
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426
Sport climber
Buzzard Point, TN
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Jul 21, 2007 - 11:50am PT
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RIP bro, I always "believed"...will be nekkid soloing in memoriam (nobody look)...
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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 21, 2007 - 01:49pm PT
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Michael would be most stoked if we had a gigantic naked climbing get together!
Man, did I just say that?
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Wheatus
Social climber
CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 02:12pm PT
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I met Michael about 20 years ago. He was working for a close friend of mine in Chatsworth. He had the same long blond hair and was aspiring to be a "glam rock star". Michael had climbed only a few times. He told my friend and I about his first trip to Tahquitz with enthusiasm. We invited Michael to go climbing at Malibu Creek.
His athletic talent was obvious when he cruised up a 5.11 on probably his third time out climbing. He had amazing flexibility and it seemed no climb could intimidate him.
I suggested that we go to Sequoia for some multi-pitch climbing. On the second climb Michael lead he could not find the fixed anchors at the end of the pitch so I simul-climbed behind him on 5.10b moves hoping not to pull him off. Michael reaction was controlled and focused even though he had been climbing less than a year. It was obvious that he would be the real deal.
I knew my days of climbing with Michael were numbered. He was light years ahead of me in skill, technique and strength in his first year of climbing. It was hard to see someone advance so fast when I had been at climbing for many years and never improved much.
As the years passed I saw Michael at numerous climbing areas and he was always pleasant, kind and offering encouragement. Two years ago I saw him soloing in J Tree with John Bachar and Boon Speed. He was climbing Uncle Remus while Boon Speed photographed the event. His poise and grace on the rock reminded me of watching John solo climb in Tuolumne in the 1980's.
That same weekend two years ago I had just lead "Overseer" and was very happy with my lead. It was late in the day and Michael was running up a bunch of climbs on Hemmingway Buttress when he cruised effortlessly up the "Overseer". I told Michael that he made the climb look so easy it blew my enthusiasm about my lead. He graciously replied that he was sorry to ruin my ascent. I told him not to worry it was fun just to watch him climb so smoothly.
Over the past few years Michael was a controversial figure in climbing. His outspoken, brash, and rather loud behavior contributed to the incredulity of some climbers. Michael enjoyed talking and it was difficult to figure out if he was telling the truth or just spewing BS. I had my doubts. I finally researched some of his claims that I had a hard time believing were true. My research revealed that everything he told me was true. I wrote Michael an email last year to apologize for doubting his credibility even though I never told him of my previous concerns. He may have been loud and sometimes obnoxious but he always told the truth.
A few months ago my wife and I ran into Michael. My wife said that he always wanted to be a "rock star" and now he was living that dream.
Michael was a devoted husband and father. I never knew Michael without his wife Marcy. There was no doubt in my mind that Marcy was the love of his life.
He accomplished so much in his short life. He had two degrees (BA and JD), produced films and was a world class athlete. I have tremendous respect for this man. He lived life to its fullest. He lived by his own rules. We could all learn from his life.....never lose sight of your dreams.
I will miss him.
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Damian C
Trad climber
Berkeley
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Jul 21, 2007 - 03:36pm PT
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So sad. I don't know what to say.
I met Michael at a conference in Boulder this past April. I could tell just by looking into his eyes that he was a very kind person.
My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family & friends. A life well-lived...
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fowweezer
Trad climber
Pleasant Grove, UT
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Jul 21, 2007 - 03:38pm PT
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for what it's worth, someone here should save copies of the page that Clint Cummins referenced, just in case it does disappear at some point. Then at least it would still be available to the ST community.
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rrrADAM
climber
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Jul 21, 2007 - 04:57pm PT
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Mike is/was a friend of mine, and I was aquainted with both his wife and his daughter... I remember bouldering with Mike and Nikki a few years ago at Stoney Point. We, my wife and I, have camped with them, and I have climbed with Mike often at J-Tree, Malibu, and Needles. He is/was an inspiration to me, and inspired me to climb harder, and for different reasons... But more importantly, he is/was a friend, and his form of banter and playfullness will be missed... I remember bouldering with him and friends in J-Tree, and was locked off on a thin crimper groping blindly for the sloper on the top of the problem with Mike on top trying to tell me where it was, but I was looking at the crimper... He kept telling me to look up, and when I finally did, I saw his bare ass just 6 inches from my face, which of course caused me to fall off in laughter, to which he said, "ha-ha, no onsight for you!".
I love ya brutha,
~Adam
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 21, 2007 - 05:18pm PT
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I first met Michael at Stoney and it was one of those explosive meetings where two people that talk too much talked over each other. We became instant friends while doing two of our favorite pastimes which are laughing and climbing.
One of the great moments I remember about Mike was when I went to Joshua Tree to go climb with Bachar. I had never hung out with Bachar before and was a bit nervous about the prospect. While wandering around trying to find Bachar, I bumped into Mike who instantly ran down from a boulder to give me a hug. When he realized I was just passing through to find Bachar, he started acting like a teenage girl digging in the dirt about this supposed relationship. When he realized that we were just barely meeting, he became a Jewish grandmother giving me tips on making a good impression while giggling over the prospect of getting us together. He then transformed into a black woman to boost my ego about my fine self. By the time I actually did meet up with Bachar, I was with Mike being rowdy, mouthing off and giggling. There went my good impression... I was acting like a foul mouthed girl having the time of her life. Luckily, Bachar took it well and joined in.
Damn, no one can make me laugh harder.
I miss him.
Anastasia
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10djam
Trad climber
Chino, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 06:15pm PT
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Thanks for starting the Memoriam thread Mr B. I don't know what to say… am still a bit in shock having just read the news last night. I guess I expected to someday read about Michael's last climb. Not the wave. Regardless, I'll need time to digest.
I can say I was fortunate enough to have met and climbed with Michael and Wes, at Malibu & Stoney, back in the pre Bad-Ass days. The times I've bumped in to him since, he always lit up and greeted me like an old friend. His smile and infectious enthusiasm will be sorely missed.
Bob Bruner
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b.p.
climber
bishop
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Jul 21, 2007 - 06:22pm PT
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Bachar, a giant naked climbing get-together?...that might be more information than ANYBODY can handle...
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 09:04pm PT
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Well, while I think a giant naked climb for some of us could possibly be a little uncomfortable, Michael wherever he is would probably think it was the most rad thing done in modern climbing. A giant memorial naked climb. I mean, that memorial service he had in Ireland sounded like one of the most spiritual, meaningful and moving ceremonies of anyone I've ever read about. Bagpipes? A native made memorial stone placed at his cliff? Irish poets who wrote poems personally for Marci and Nikki?. His ancestral land gave him the most amazing tribute to the man that Michael was. Not just the climber, but the person that they cherished.
While I know we here will eventually reach some kind of memorial for Michael, his beloved Ireland gave him the spiritual send off of all times. I cried when I read the account of the ceremony, it moved me that much. I can't imagine how emotional it would have been in person.
I think if we found some kind of wild and crazy way to remember Michael - something that would leave us all laughing in hysterics, telling the best stories about him, doing somthing that would make him look down and say "f&ck yeah!! They better be out there having the time of their lives!". I'd just rather be at something that made us all remember the wild spirit of Michael, nothing so somber that we all end up in tears. Cause I know I've cried a lot of those and so have so many people that he touched.
I know eventually a proper memorial will happen over here. I cannot fathom how hard it must be for Marci and Nicki right now. Especially since they don't have the closure of actually having Michael back. But in the interim, I think we could all use a positive pick me up gathering of some kind where we celebrate his life with laughter and toasts and less tears.
I'd prefer it not to be naked, but if even Bachar is game then this can take wheels!
Only rule - no cameras, cell phone (pics) and it's done at dusk or night (when Michael told me about the naked climbing club he sugested climbing stuff later in the day when less people could possibly encounter you).
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 09:58pm PT
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Oh, to GD since I always record my climbs/dates/partners, it was 1-31-04. Also, I looked at my partners for some of the other climbs I did that day and realize Dennis was with us, another draw that kept Michael coming back our way (no, not who I was talking about earlier about not wanting to climb naked with. I was referring to my b/f of the time and that's just not an angle you wanna see).
Back to the story...
I introduced Michael to Dennis in Hidden Valley Campground on the night of 10-04-03. In the "Michael MIA" thread, I recounted a story about Michael doing a 5.7 roped climb of Overhang Bypass with me. What I didn't say was fate throughout that night found me finding him and bringing him over to my campsite and introducing him to my partners/campsite mates. He was so amiable that he was one of us within about 4 seconds. He spent the next morning with us. Dennis was helping me with learning to lead aid for an upcoming Utah trip I had, yet there was a route near where we were going that Michael wanted to scope out. Win win for all. We got to spend Sunday morning together off in the rocks away from it all. And everyone's spirits couldn't have been higher.
Dennis and Michael became friends. He was there the day of Michael's JT freesolo spree. I'm glad those two awesome people had that experience and I'm glad that random fate ended up letting me have one amazing person/climber meet another of his same kind.
ps: I record all my climbs in my guidebooks with date and partner next to the route name. That's how I was able to recall in a frighteningly anal-retentive way how everything happened hahaha.
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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 21, 2007 - 10:25pm PT
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Sorry I had to mention it...you know Reardon would dig it though!
In the middle of it all there'd probably come this huge thunderous laugh from the sky.
We could be lightweights and wear thongs? Nah...
It would be the most outrageous Michael-esque climber memorial ever....don't know if we're ready for it. I think Michael had more mojo than we could ever handle. You know if we asked him about it, he'd probably be all for it....he would definitely be cool if we couldn't deal with it either.
Thanks Michael - you have permanently altered my consciousness - I can't even believe I'm writing this stuff!
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Oli
Trad climber
Fruita, Colorado
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Jul 21, 2007 - 10:41pm PT
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I didn't get a chance to meet or climb with Michael. He wrote me, though, a few times while working on his film of Bachar. I sent him some thoughts, photos, and let him use some footage from my Gill film. He was very appreciative. Maybe in a sense that film was more a portrait of Michael's spirit than Bachar's, kind of brash, strange, likeable, offensive, disconnected project, having things, missing things, curious... different...
I am very sorry to hear of his disappearance. It reminds me of climbing above the sea at Gogarth (north Wales) on a rainy day, looking down below me at the ocean, making very sure I didn't fall. That water is so cold, it can practically freeze you instantly, and if you landed in it wrong from high enough, you probably wouldn't have much of a chance. It is nice to see such a tribute to him here. Thanks, John, and everyone who knew him.
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Crimpergirl
Social climber
St. Looney
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Jul 21, 2007 - 10:50pm PT
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Well, try as he (and other outlaws) did, I never joined the mojo club either. Too big a chicken here.
I may be persuaded for a mojo club tribute event if the rules were as Fluoride suggests (no camera, dusk, trip to Lacunae International).
I stated it in the other thread - and to our mutual friends - his loss is so very sad. It is especially difficult to accept that since that day the world gained another widow and another orphan. It breaks my heart.
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 21, 2007 - 11:51pm PT
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Crimpie, one thing I thought of was we all pick a day on some weekend next month where we're off on the rock wherever we all are. Pick a time and date, like a couple weekends from now at dusk and wherever you are, whoever you're with, doff it and just do some moves on the stone naked. Even if it's just 3 moves up a boulder problem you probably couldn't send clothed. Just that you'd do it would make Michael reel with laughter. A mass nationwide naked timed climb in his honor. I think we all have a partner we'd be comfortable doing this with. If not, go to your nearest bouldering area alone, find a solitary problem and doff it at the given time. It'll be a mass tribute.
That way we don't all have to see each other naked, yet we can all be on our way to the Mojo Club. And of couse everyone needs to learn the lyrics to "Elvis is Everywhere" or at least just the chorus so when you doff it, you're doing it in TRUE Mojo club style. Or if you have another favorite Mojo song, go for it.
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WBraun
climber
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Jul 21, 2007 - 11:53pm PT
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What does being naked have anything to do with mojo?
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Crimpergirl
Social climber
St. Looney
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Jul 22, 2007 - 12:10am PT
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Sounds good Fluoride. I hope I don't get thrown out of the gym for this. ;)
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b.p.
climber
bishop
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Jul 22, 2007 - 01:25am PT
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Bachar, why so much disbelief in your writing? The loss of a friend is an absurdity we cope with any which way we can...laughter and tears must mingle, the way light and shadow do...in that thin space between them, we try to find the point of balance...it's very hard sometimes.
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 22, 2007 - 10:40am PT
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Werner, mojo has a number of meanings.
In Michael's case he had it in spades. But what he meant by the Mojo Club was based on the mojo you had to be able to be so free as to do some climbs naked, but you ALSO had to know the other MOJO he loved, Mojo Nixon and Skid Roper. Listen to their music and this will all make more sense. I actually listened to them back in college and "Elvis is Everywhere" was my fave song by them so when Michael broke into song that day, it was magic cause that was the first time I heard it in ages, and not sung by Mojo but by Michael. As if climbing Monaco with Michael wasn't fun enough, he pulled out this great nugget of a song to climb his way up it to.
Mmmm, the marine layer is starting to burn off so I'm off to the beach. Yesterday I took the plunge and became a bike owner for the first time since college. Going to take side streets to the beach and ride the paths. I haven't biked around since I've lived here, which as been awhile (LA drivers are insane and it's just easier to drive places). But I bought a bike yesterday and the freedom of biking 4 blocks to Ralph's instead of driving it felt good. Damn Go-Green everything, it's finally got to me!! And I am going to enjoy every minute. I don't know if I'd have done this before, but I guess with all the Michael reflection I've decided life is short and make the most of it. I always loved to bike so dammit, I just gotta learn my side streets and be careful and I'll have a wonderful ride.
I hope you all have a wonderful ride through today! Whatever it is you're doing.
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 22, 2007 - 10:44am PT
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BACHAR.....NO thongs babe, if we must be naked and cover up, I thought Micheal did it best in the posted photo....chalk bag in front...and maybe back side too. Weren't there mass nude ascents of Cathedral "back in the day" or was I the only one doing that? Pre tourist days and post mosquito period. Werner I would speculate mojo is better when yer naked, better nrg flow!!!
Peace
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 22, 2007 - 11:29am PT
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I will join the Mojo club for Michael.
John, I am in for "the nude climbing tribute..." I am sure that will make one of Mike's dreams come true. Maybe with a few cuties joining us we can get the rest to not mind being part of such a tribute.
Who else is in? C'mon, who will join me? "I'm cute."
Anastasia
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 22, 2007 - 01:19pm PT
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I'm "in"???
Peace
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 22, 2007 - 01:55pm PT
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Bump!
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10djam
Trad climber
Chino, CA
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Jul 22, 2007 - 01:59pm PT
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Anastasia - If you and the other cuties are in, then I couldn't miss this either. Micheal would get the biggest laugh. But, with my damn work schedule... gotta prep my excuses :-)
Bob (you'll remember me if you see me) from Stoney Point.
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jul 22, 2007 - 11:29pm PT
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Michael did the Access Society here a big favour last year, which I'd like to remember. The Squamish Mountain Festival 2007 ended today, and went well. Michael came and spoke at our festival in 2006, spent a few days at Squamish, and was a great success. Michael's help last year allowed the Access Society and partners to build this year to a larger event. Ironically, I heard about what happened on the second morning, July 14th.
We originally had another speaker in mind for 2006, who proved to be unavailable. So about this time last year we were looking for an alternative. We went trolling on the various internet forums, including ST, to see what the buzz was. Eventually, Rolf said "Let's invite Reardon". So we contacted him, by e-mail and phone, and worked it out with him and Marci. They were quite courteous and helpful, and Michael agreed to waive any fee for speaking, and just be paid expenses.
One day in September, I picked up Michael at the airport, drove him to Squamish, showed him around, and turned him over to my brother. (They had a good time, involving a pub or beer or something.) Michael had a few days climbing - he hadn't been to Squamish before. His presentation went very well, and he was the life of the party afterward.
I knew a little of Michael before he came here. I'd seen him at the trade show in SLC, and chatted a bit. He was a very lively and voluble character, perhaps a bit much for some, but if he had a bit of blarney, he came by it honestly! But Michael spoke a great deal of his family, his climbing roots, his many friends, and his then recent first trip to England and Ireland, which had been very special. (He did admit that he'd been to law school, but I decided that could be overlooked.)
My condolences to Marci, Nikki, and all Michael's family and friends.
Anders
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jiimmy
Boulder climber
san diego
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Jul 23, 2007 - 12:27am PT
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Never met him. Doesnt matter. Sorry to hear of his accident. I was quite impressed with what I read. Irritated with the folks who said he didnt do this or that.
Rest easy
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Jello
Social climber
No Ut
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Jul 23, 2007 - 12:51am PT
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I had heard of Michael Reardon, but hadn't met him.
Hobbling down the aisles of the OR show with my trusty canes(almost three years ago, now), I see the Reardon personna in all his genuine and quite huge blondeness approaching - a pretty girl at his side. He spots me and comes rushing up, Marci keeping pace.
"Mr. Lowe, you don't know me," he bursts out, "but I just want to thank you for all you've done." "I'd like you to meet my wife, Marci."
Thus began an all-too-short friendship, one which will last forever.
Thanks, Michael, for being you. And thank you Marci and Nicki, for supporting the man we've all come to love.
-Jeff
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 23, 2007 - 03:32pm PT
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bumping for Bachar!
Peace
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JMC
climber
Tucson
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Jul 23, 2007 - 04:09pm PT
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At Stoney Point, I used to run into this shaved-headed guy, Tom Bristow. We had mutual projects, so would boulder with each other during these encounters. Tom would talk about his friend "Mike" who could fire off our projects with ease. Who is this "Mike" guy, I wondered? A year or so later, I run into Tom, Wes, and "Mike" - Mike Reardon, it turns out. I had never met him before despite my countless hours at Stoney. Man, this guy is LOUD, I thought, I hope I don't run into him too often. I continued to run into him more frequently, and got to see how much he stoked people - his personal motivation spilled into his friends, pushing them to bust ass. Irreverent sense of humor, too. One memorable time, as Wes was onsighting some chossy TR/highball below Beethoven's, Reardon was alternating between spotting Wes and joking about how he (Reardon) was going to "leave a DNA sample in Wes if he falls [and dies]." Wes is somehow able to reply to this sperm-related banter and pull up on a rotten flake at the same time. Mike seemed disappointed that he didn't get to violate Wes' corpse. Crazy...
Later that year, out at Stoney, Mike handed me a copy of his new movie (Bachar story), totally unsolicited. His generosity was apparent not only in act, but in seeing how much his bros loved him, his love for them, his love for his family, and his love for climbing. I'm glad I got to meet him.
-John Canby
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mojede
Trad climber
Butte, America
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Jul 23, 2007 - 04:26pm PT
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Hats off to Michael Reardon for showing us how to live life to its fullest.
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Miwok
climber
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Jul 23, 2007 - 04:33pm PT
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I'll see ya on the other side Mike. Be sure to give God some penalty slack for takin ya too soon.
Boldest human being I ever met.
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 23, 2007 - 10:33pm PT
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I am drinking a beer right now preparing for my fligh home while thinking about how Michael would have lived up this moment...
I am sure he would do it better than I, get more fun out of it and come home with the greatest story. There is a castle not far from here overlooking the ocean that has the greatest hand holds... If I only had his guts and skills I would climb it for him.
AF
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 23, 2007 - 10:55pm PT
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climb it for yourself, then you'll have climbed it for him!
safe passage home
Peace
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 23, 2007 - 10:56pm PT
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climb it for yourself, then you'll have climbed it for him!
safe passage home
Peace
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RW
Boulder climber
SLC,UT
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Jul 24, 2007 - 01:36am PT
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I am sure he would do it better than I, get more fun out of it and come home with the greatest story. There is a castle not far from here overlooking the ocean that has the greatest hand holds... If I only had his guts and skills I would climb it for him.
AF
i'm sure michael would have been psyched if he knew you thought of climbing that castle wall, naked, in his honour. singing a mojo nixon tune.......
i'm psyched anyway. hug wes for me if you see him.
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immanti
climber
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Jul 24, 2007 - 03:12pm PT
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Bump!
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tom brogan
Trad climber
san diego, ca
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Jul 24, 2007 - 03:14pm PT
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My experiences with Michael are much like everyone else. I had no idea who he was until "Return to Sender" came out. The next weekend after I saw the video, there is Michael in the Tahquitz parking lot brushing his teeth. I said "what the hell" and walked right up to him and introduced myself. He was as happy to meet me as I was to meet him. We talked for quite awhile about the climbs we had in commom (me with a rope). I ran into Michael so many times the next few years that once last season in Josh, I accused him of stalking me. That got a big laugh from him and a few comments (of a sexual nature) not fit to put here. Michael treated me like I was a peer. He made me feel like I was a member of his club. I soon learned that there was nothing special about me, Michael treated everyone like they were a member of his club.
Tom
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Josh Higgins
Trad climber
San Diego
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Jul 24, 2007 - 04:57pm PT
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I ran into Michael many times being a southern California climber myself. He was always excited, full of energy, and off to the next climb. I don't know how many times I asked him about a route I was hoping to climb in the near future. Typically I knew the route was within my onsight ability, but I wanted to know gear beta.... He never had any! "Sorry, I didn't bring gear." Ha!
I didn't know him, but I'll miss running into him during his soloing sprees across southern California. What an amazing man he was!
Josh
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Alois
Social climber
Idyllwild, California
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Jul 24, 2007 - 09:57pm PT
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Pen and I were sitting on top of Tahquitz in June about three years ago when this blond "kid" comes running up, sits beside us and ask who,what,why,how etc. We chatted about an hour about Tahquitz, J Tree, Needles, Sierra. He surprised me by knowing about couple of routes of mine on the Hermit, he knew a lot about routes and places and loved to chat, just like Pen and I. He said he was Michael. Couple months later I got R&I (I believe) and there he was in a big article about soloing. We would run into Michael repeatedly on Tahquitz during the mid week, Pen later invited him over for a coffee. Later yet he would just show up at our door here in IDY, sit on our kitchen counter and just shoot the breeze for a while. Now mind you I'm 59 + and Pen is also my generation, so Michael's interest was a bit outside of his age group. He was extremely easy to talk with, asked questions and even made notes about the 70s and 80s. Last time we saw him was about a month ago, came here Saturday early morning, set up his video and we chatted for almost 3 hours about the "hiking" we did in the 80s and about the continuing evolution of the sport. Ever since I first said hello to him, I thought he was not only articulated, educated man, but also very warm, loving and caring individual. He was a good person and we will miss his smile and laugh terribly. We love you bro...
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Degaine
climber
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Jul 25, 2007 - 09:44am PT
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Michael was indeed a warm, energetic, nice and just in general a fun person to be around. Glad to have met him and climbed with him the couple of times I did between '01 and '03. Always encouraging whatever level I seemed to be climbing at the time (always well below his). Originally met him through a friend.
My sincerest condolences to Marci and Nikki.
See you in the next life, Michael.
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emac
climber
New Hampshire
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Jul 25, 2007 - 11:14am PT
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I met Michael just once at OR, but in that short time hanging out at the Climbing Magazine booth he exuded a kid-in-a-candy-store excitement. In that brief meeting I recall thinking how truly excited Michael was to be amongst his peers, his heros and even total strangers, like me.
While walking to work this morning, flipping through my iPod, I came across a series of podcasts that Michael did for PodClimber. It was a series about his recent climbing in Ireland. I listened through, and in the third installment a comment he made really struck me. I'm paraphrasing, but basically he said "If I pitched off into the ocean tomorrow, no one would miss me." His context was that we are each just a small part of an enormous world, almost insignificant on our own. One might think Michael had a "big head" or ego, but in my one brief encounter, and through this podcast, he was a totally humble person. And I think he was quite wrong, as this thread shows. He is missed, and I am sure always will be.
For anyone interested, the podcast I referenced can be heard at: http://www.podclimber.com/?m=1&c=24&p=516&page=1 Around minute 36 is the statement I paraphrased. Though I may have blown past this interview before, I am glad I took the time to share in his excitement for our sport and life in general.
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Kay Kay
climber
Lakewood, CA
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Jul 25, 2007 - 12:23pm PT
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I haven't been climbing the last couple years but prior my husband and I would meet up with Mike at the local climbing spots. He was the person that always made me smile, just by looking at him. There was always this energy he put off that was just contagious. I see him in my mind with his ugg boots and his long blonde hair and that laugh. I have lots of memories of him and I will now hold all those closer to my heart. We miss you!
Karen
PS I found this today http://www.rockandice.com/inthemag.php?id=36&type=onlinenews if anyone is interested.
I hope if anyone hears of a benefit for Marci and Nikki to honor Mike in Southern California they will post also.
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mdavid
Big Wall climber
CA, CO, TX
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Jul 25, 2007 - 04:54pm PT
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sad sad news
i hope his family is taken care of
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Jul 26, 2007 - 07:15pm PT
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Needs a bump and some more stories!
Peace
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Steve's sister
Sport climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Jul 26, 2007 - 11:20pm PT
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I choose to believe that Steve and Michael are in Heaven together. Fishing, climbing, happy and healthy. Probably trying to debate which is more fun!
Much love and prayers for Marci and Nikki.
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Bramm
Social climber
Thousand Oaks, CA
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Jul 26, 2007 - 11:50pm PT
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Michael is larger than life, so if there is anyone who got picked up by an Irish fishing vessel w/out radio contact and plenty of Jameson's it is him. I know he is out on the high seas giving it all he has.
When I first moved to SoCal from DC, he was one of the first persons I met one night at Boulderdash, a local climbing gym in Westlake Village. As I was opening a new outdoor boutique, I approached anyone there inquiring what their preferences were. Michael gave me, unabashedley, the low-down. While not a climber per se, we shared some common educational background. As a result, we developed a frienship which I always cherish. After opening our boutique in T.O., he has been one of our biggist champions for which I am always grateful.
So, my friends, raise a pint for Micheal for his indomitable energy lives in us all.......
By the way, if you want to MoJo for Michael this Saturday, some folks, including some folks from Livity, are gathering @ Malibu Creek. If a near future date otherwise, count me in....Stony (warmer), Malibu, or twilight JTree....?
Nikki & Marci, we're here for you. Just give a call and we'll do anything with love.
Bramm
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Leavittator
climber
san diego, ca.
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Jul 27, 2007 - 12:20am PT
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Michael, you were an inspirational guy – so full of life and energy. We are sorry to see you pass. I remember the last day I saw at Joshua Tree. We were talking about big wave surfing. You said you were intimidated by big waves, but this just left me shaking my head. The things you have climbed without a rope made this notion seem absurd. But life is unexpected and I am glad you made the most of it before you moved on. Our best goes out to Marci and Nikki in this difficult time. You always impressed me with your devotion to your family.
Peace,
Randy
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Michael D
Big Wall climber
Napoli, Italy
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Jul 27, 2007 - 08:25am PT
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Michael and I bumped into each other late afternoon at JT, he saw me soloing easy stuff, and we chatted of all things, family and kids. After scampering up and down routes,not a bit of climbing talk..only his interest in what someone else might consider a 'good dad'..a way cool day. Save some chalk in the bag!
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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 28, 2007 - 02:38pm PT
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Michael loved JT as we all know....just another cool shot of our buddy in one of his favorite playgrounds...
"Uncle Remus", 5.11b.
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 28, 2007 - 03:21pm PT
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C'mon people, there must be a few stories that you can share.
Please...
AF
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tradgirl
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Jul 30, 2007 - 02:46am PT
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It appears as though there is a memorial for his at Malibu Creek on Saturday, August 18. This is a public memorial where attendees are asked to dress in jeans and flip flops in honor of Michael.
From this article
http://thehendricksreport.wordpress.com/...-for-august-18-2007/
I was hoping somebody here had heard about it and knew what time the service would be held.
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graham
Social climber
Ventura, California
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Jul 30, 2007 - 12:24pm PT
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You can try the contact below for info on this memorial.
Borealis Expedition Adventure Resource, Inc.
Janss Marketplace
275 N. Moorpark Rd, Ste. C
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Toll Free: (866) 841-BEAR
Store: (805) 777-4810
William is the store owner. You can also email “Bramm” from the previous page for any help on this.
Mike
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dll
climber
Oak Park, Ca.
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Jul 31, 2007 - 02:17pm PT
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The Celebration on the 18th, starts at 9 am.
Seems like the ideal time and place for the group Mojo initiation... bring your birthday suits!
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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What impressed me the most about Michael was that he was not a typical modern climber. He wasn't a sales rep for an outdoor equipment manufacturer, he didn't work in a climbing gym, he wasn't a guide, and he didn't live in a van. Those are perfectly respectable ways of spending your time, and they certainly help to facilitate a climbing career. But Michael managed to become an elite, even world-class climber in his specialty, while putting together a successful professional career and building a happy family life.
Think about it: He succeeded in movies, one of the most competitive industries on the face of the planet, and in the capitol for commercial film. Despite real talent in film, music, and climbing--three genres not known for stable emotional landscapes--he was a devoted family man. And despite not living in Chamonix or Innsbruck or even Bishop, he managed to build a phenomenal climbing career out of areas that were within an easy drive of his home. We may not see another performance like that in our lifetimes.
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Tarbuster
climber
right here, right now
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Very nice words for your friend Coz: from the heart and quite meaningful.
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brothaweed
Trad climber
Monterey, California
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Aug 22, 2007 - 03:07am PT
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I met Mike in November of 2005 in J-Tree. My buddy Logan and I saw this blond haired dude going up and down routes with incredible fluidity. Being the Zen/Buddhist/Hindu aficcionado that I am, I was immediately intrigued with this guy who was obviously "one with the rock". He disappeared, and it wasn't till later that day we came across him once more over by the Lost Horse rock formation. The first chance I got I approached him. Logan and I ended up enjoying a good 30-45mins of talking about anything and everything. I just remember him as a super social guy with a great smile and a great sense of humor.
He also confirmed my eastern beliefs... i.e. he climbed a lot to get to where he was. Being fearful or fearless was not the issue. Soloing was about being free and in the moment. What he did... was what he did.
After reading almost this entire forum, and pretty much seeing every picture, and being taken to youtube multiple times, I can see he has come across many a person's lives in the same manner he came across mine. He definitely has a beautiful soul!
Mike, I'm half way to the Mojo club. I've bouldered naked in J-Tree and climbed a route naked at the Pinnacles National Monument in California. Your energy is still strong and will be so for quite some time. RIP.
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Rubi
Mountain climber
Vancouver Island, BC
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Aug 28, 2007 - 01:02am PT
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"Thank god for chalk bags"
RUBI
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BadInfluence
Mountain climber
Dak side
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Aug 30, 2007 - 01:38pm PT
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it's still hard to believe that a Mike has vanished. I was hoping that one he would show back up. Way to Hit it when you were around Mike.
RIP
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jul 13, 2008 - 03:08am PT
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Michael disappeared a year (366 days) ago today, and I thought it would be an appropriate time for his friends to remember him. I hope his wife, daughter, and other family are doing as well as they might in the circumstances.
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Anastasia
climber
Not there
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Jul 13, 2008 - 04:18am PT
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I will never forget Michael, he was unforgettable in all the good ways.
Now having him disappear so close to my birthday, it makes the lines between life and death stand out even more for me.
We are all gauranteed death. What is not gauranteed is a good life.
Live well in his honor. Love well, take the time to see the beauty that surrounds you every day and enjoy it.
AF
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jul 13, 2008 - 10:32am PT
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When I think of Michael what comes to mind is the lesson of keeping an open mind.
I'd heard plenty of sh#t talk about him, but when I met him at ClimbFest last year he was the nicest guy in the world, positive, energetic, generous with his consideration.
What a tragedy!
I can only hope that in writing this it might prompt others to likewise be less predisposed to assumptions and more inclined to give people a chance to show their true metal.
I think he would like that.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Jul 13, 2008 - 01:22pm PT
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hey there piton ron... say, this is a very nice lesson that far too many folks find hard to learn...
what a nice blessing to leave as new growth, for the memory of michael...
it is a very good thing to stop and look bad a someone's life, like this... i, too, hope his family is doing better in facing all this...
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sawin
climber
So., CA.
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Jul 14, 2008 - 05:56pm PT
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Great Balls of Fire (grade HVS/5a), at Ailladie, Ireland.
Copyright (c) 2008 Bryce Sawin
Permission is granted to copy, distribute and/or modify this document under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2 or any later version published by the Free Software Foundation; with no Invariant Sections, no Front-Cover Texts, and no Back-Cover Texts. A copy of the license is included in the section entitled "GNU Free Documentation License".
GNU Free Documentation License
http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/gpl.html
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bachar
Gym climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 16, 2008 - 12:17am PT
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Reardon I know you're on Supertopo somehow.
We miss you brother.
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graham
Social climber
Ventura, California
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Jul 16, 2008 - 02:04pm PT
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My wife and I were on Sahara Terror on Monday at Tahquitz. About 2/3 the way up is a dead tree that sticks straight out off a ledge. When I looked real close I saw this little fabricated Doll dangling from one of its branches. It made me laugh pretty well, I told her I’d bet 100 bucks Reardon put that there.
I was smiling about it all the way to the summit.
Just the day before a few of us were talking about it being a year ago that he left. I’ve missed the energetic phone calls and I still see his name scroll across my cell phone.
Hope all involved are well
Mike Graham
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graham
Social climber
Ventura, California
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Jul 16, 2008 - 02:05pm PT
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My wife and I were on Sahara Terror on Monday at Tahquitz. About 2/3 the way up is a dead tree that sticks straight out off a ledge. When I looked real close I saw this little fabricated Doll dangling from one of its branches. It made me laugh pretty well, I told her I’d bet 100 bucks Reardon put that there.
I was smiling about it all the way to the summit.
Just the day before a few of us were talking about it being a year ago that he left. I’ve missed the energetic phone calls and I still see his name scroll across my cell phone.
Hope all involved are well
Mike Graham
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MistyJ
Social climber
Cleveland,Ohio
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Jul 16, 2008 - 02:35pm PT
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Mike- Don't know if you will remember me. Mike Miller had me work the O.R. show for you many years ago. I hope all is well with you. Missy
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Jerry Dodrill
climber
Sebastopol, CA
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Jul 16, 2008 - 02:55pm PT
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I hope this doesn't seem inappropriate. The other day I was heading up the backside of Banner Peak when a guy with long blonde hair and a big smile came running down from out of the blue. He was super friendly and helpful, said he'd just tagged Mts. Davis, and Ritter and was off for more. I watched him descend for a few minutes wondering if I'd just seen Reardon's ghost. Though the register revealed a different name, Michael's spirit lives.
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EP
Social climber
Way Out There
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Jul 16, 2008 - 03:22pm PT
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Margee has a photo of Michael free soloing Airy Interlude buck naked hanging in the Needles lookout.
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graham
Social climber
Ventura, California
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Jul 16, 2008 - 04:27pm PT
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Hi Missy, sure I remember, it wasn’t that long ago…I’ll shoot you off a message.
Jerry sounds like an interesting encounter? I couldn’t begin to imagine how many people he influenced in such a short time.
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Curt
Boulder climber
Gilbert, AZ
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Jul 17, 2008 - 12:46am PT
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Geeze, has it actually been a year now? I'm still sad when I think about this.
Curt
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sawin
climber
So. Cal.
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Jul 17, 2008 - 09:25pm PT
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Amazing Reardon free solo.
< Link >
It's another thread and not a bump so do come back.
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Steve's sister
Social climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Aug 13, 2009 - 08:59pm PT
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Thought of Michael today as well.
11 months to the day after my brother.
Life is weird!
Sorry if I seem a bit macabe', trippin' down memory lane today!
July and August have been hard for the past 3 years.
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Aug 13, 2009 - 10:09pm PT
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Lisa, it's quite OK - I suspect you're far from the only person whose memories of lost friends have arisen anew recently. I'd been thinking about Steve and Michael also, and others.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 12:04am PT
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Yeah, Lisa, glad you posted and glad to have met you. It's hell along with trying to find harmony, as we talked about, when the ones you love so much are gone from your lives. Please free to email me or call me on the phone 24/7. Peace Gal and you are in my thoughts and prayers. Lynne
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dogtown
climber
Cheyenne,Wyoming
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Aug 17, 2009 - 02:36am PT
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Two Pee's in a pod.
Dogtown.
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| Messages 1 - 102 of total 102 in this topic |
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