Discussion Topic |
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Messages 1 - 127 of total 127 in this topic |
Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Original Post - Dec 11, 2008 - 06:15pm PT
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The Woodster. Still cranking at 65!
Photo by Blitzo.
Right on, Woody! I'm proud to know you.
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Dec 11, 2008 - 06:46pm PT
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I don't need to have met him to know that he kicks ass!!!
Keep crankin', Woody.
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Chaz
Trad climber
So. Cal.
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Dec 11, 2008 - 06:53pm PT
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Not many people do his routes anymore.
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:02pm PT
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Not only is he crankin' in that picture but he is still nursing a very severe ankle sprain and still is climbing!!!! woo hoo...!
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Captain...or Skully
Social climber
Where are YOU from?
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:10pm PT
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Now, if he wasn't such a ill advised unrepentant poilitico.....
Other than that, Woodster is A-OK.
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:18pm PT
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Here's Woody after his successful ascent of Hair Raiser butress, this after some idiot had chopped the bolts and the climb was now rated back to the old X rating. Didn't faze Woody however, he hopped up there and pulled the moves, yeah, nothing scares this guy!
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:24pm PT
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A striking resemblence to...????? Yasser Arafat
So don't mess with this guy..!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:26pm PT
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Talked to Woody on ST...hope to meet him in the real someday. Heard nothing but good about you Sir, except you drive a little slow....hahaha. Smiles, Lynne
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Dec 11, 2008 - 07:45pm PT
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hey there wooddy... say, keep on goal-reaching... :)
glad to hear that all is doing better, now...
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2008 - 07:58pm PT
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Woody in Alabama Hills.
Photo by locker.
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Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:00pm PT
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Woody can still do 30 or more pull-ups......with no effort at all......he puts the fluff boys, gym rats and plastic pullers to shame.....
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:03pm PT
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Say Karen, nice picture ! Now if I evah run into you I will recognize. Do you also climb at the J. Tree ?
Maybe Woody would give his fan club a "How is the Leg Doing" update...... : ))
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Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:16pm PT
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It's hard to find a crag that Woody hasn't visited.....he's been pretty much everywhere....
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:20pm PT
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Hi Lynne, yeah I definitely climb at JT, just need a good excuse to escape Long Beach, right now putting in the miles on the road bike so to ride a century this coming March.
Would love to meet you!!!
Yeah-yeah Woody I WILL go climbing one of these days!!!! have class both this Sat & Sun, argh!!!!!!!!!!!
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Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:21pm PT
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He has that rugged handsome look that only comes with years, experience, and maturity;.....and is oft compared to Clint Eastwood, Sean Connery, Mel Gibson, and the New Kids on the Block guy named Donny.........
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Dec 11, 2008 - 08:24pm PT
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Caption for the gym shot, "Put down the camera and walk away, fluffy, before I kick yerass!".
That Alabama Hills pic is sweet!
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looking sketchy there...
Social climber
Latitute 33
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Dec 11, 2008 - 09:02pm PT
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Woody is an inspiration. 41+ years after putting up classics like The Flake, Dogleg and Double Cross he is still cranking (and pulling off scary leads).
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2008 - 09:22pm PT
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I doubt that I will ever see 65!
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Jaybro
Social climber
wuz real!
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Dec 11, 2008 - 09:34pm PT
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except for thos dble cross bolts he seems okay.
It's getting closer all the time, Blitzo.
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 09:47pm PT
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If you see this heading your way, get the Hell out of his way!!!!
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Dec 11, 2008 - 11:21pm PT
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I appreciate that he didn't short rope me at the gym tonight.
;-)
The recent favorite guide book thread inspired me to pull out my old orange Wolfe J tree guide.
The original.
There's a paupacity of completetely free climbs in it. somewhere around 40-50. Woody's name is on 14 of the FFAs.
Also, one of the best read autodidactic historians I've run into. His surface political realisim (not cynicism) is grounded in a deep understanding of history from Theuclidites on.
I think he might be lieing about his age a bit too.
Add a few years.
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Mtnmun
Trad climber
Top of the Mountain Mun
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Dec 11, 2008 - 11:29pm PT
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A classic example of a sandbagger eh TGT? I've never met him, saw him from the top of a climb once, walking by, I think he abscounded a few cams from my stash.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Dec 11, 2008 - 11:30pm PT
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Karen, will you be out at J. Tree over New Years anytime from 12/31 to 1/4 ?
Sketchy, always fun to read yo posts.
Billy, That could be changed til 80 + .... with just a few adjustments.... smiles, Lynne
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Dec 11, 2008 - 11:40pm PT
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I think I saw 110 once on the way back from Tahquitz.
Rideing with him isn't as frightening as belaying him though.
Pedal is always to the metal.
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 11, 2008 - 11:47pm PT
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80+? Yeah, if I stop drinking, taking LSD and Ecstasy and shooting meth, coke and heroine, but that's not going to happen!
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 11, 2008 - 11:47pm PT
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I don't know TGT, riding in the Cooper is truly frightening! Plus he drives like a testosterone 20 something!!!!!
Woody SLOW down!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 12, 2008 - 12:17am PT
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Sorry about that n00b, for some reason I though that I took that.
I guess I took this one.
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 12, 2008 - 12:29am PT
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Another Alabama Hills shot of Woody.
Photo by Bluto.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Dec 12, 2008 - 12:32am PT
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hey there... great rock cimbing pictures... and... a nice little bump for woody's appreciation post...
:)
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WoodySt
Trad climber
Riverside
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Dec 12, 2008 - 12:32am PT
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Thank you all for the thread and appreciation. If one hangs around long enough (67), a lot of folks get to know you. I've got to lose that pot
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Blitzo
Social climber
Earth
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Topic Author's Reply - Dec 12, 2008 - 12:35am PT
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Just give the pot to locker and Cosmic, they'll smoke it! I may also take a hit or two.
Are you 67? I thought you were 65, but what's a couple years?!
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Gary
climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
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Dec 12, 2008 - 03:44pm PT
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Sorry, folks, but I can never forgive Woody for the humilitaion that is Penelope's Walk. Oh, the shame.
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Dec 12, 2008 - 04:49pm PT
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Woody, if you are going to lose that "pot" you've got to refrain from pumpkin pie, chocolate chip cookies, M&M's, peanuts, cashews and other forms of junk food!!!!
You put the girls on a diet, it is time you do the same...!!!
Oh and while you're at it, ditch the nasty anchovies, gag...
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S.Powers
Social climber
Jtree, now in Alaska
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Dec 12, 2008 - 05:53pm PT
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Woody da MAN!!!
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WoodySt
Trad climber
Riverside
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Dec 12, 2008 - 06:53pm PT
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In High School, my nom de screw-off was Peckerhead a la Woody Wood Pecker.
Okay now, no smart asses.
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Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
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Dec 12, 2008 - 07:30pm PT
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I grew up doing Woody's routes out at Josh. Classics!
JL
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Port
Trad climber
San Diego
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Mar 16, 2009 - 03:24pm PT
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Bump
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Gene
climber
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Mar 16, 2009 - 03:28pm PT
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Wouldn't you just love to be listening to the current conversation between our brothers, Ouch! and Woody. Catch you guys later.
gm
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Mar 16, 2009 - 03:36pm PT
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I miss him already. God bless ya, Woody.
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survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
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Mar 16, 2009 - 03:49pm PT
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survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
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Mar 16, 2009 - 04:00pm PT
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Mar 16, 2009 - 04:42pm PT
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hey there... say:
in honor of woody...
thanks for sharing you life here, and we will miss you very much...
thanks for sharing you kindness, and your climbs...
didn't get to meet you personal, but you SURE sounded like the most wonderful dad for you kids! and may your qualities and skills live on in them...
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Crimpergirl
Social climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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Mar 16, 2009 - 05:11pm PT
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Bump. I never had the pleasure of meeting him either. Still, he was a big part of our community here and his loss stings. RIP Woody.
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Josh Higgins
Trad climber
San Diego
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Mar 16, 2009 - 08:46pm PT
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I've been going out to J-Tree for years, and have climbed hundreds of routes. However, I'm not sure which ones were Woody's. I'm headed out there for a three day weekend and would like to know if people have a list of some of his best routes out there. Post it up and I'll see if I can convince a partner to tick a few of em. At the least, there would be a list of his best creations here on the taco. How better to honor a long-time climber?
I saw the helicopter yesterday and hoped it was a leg or an arm injury. I was sad to see we lost a life long contributor to the sport today.
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scuffy b
climber
just below the San Andreas
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Mar 16, 2009 - 09:01pm PT
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If your 1st ascent resume consisted of Double Cross and the
Flake, that would be enough right there.
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Josh Higgins
Trad climber
San Diego
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Mar 16, 2009 - 09:13pm PT
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Well, with those two on the list, it looks like people are going to be paying tribute to his contributions to the climbing community all winter by the thousands every year. For my part, maybe I'll finally get around to trying to onsight Spiderline. Damn that thing looks hard.... :)
Josh
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Mar 16, 2009 - 09:32pm PT
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Thanks, everyone for the pictures and the stories.
We've all lost a friend.
My condolences to all.
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Chaz
Trad climber
Boss Angeles
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Mar 16, 2009 - 10:41pm PT
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I've been climbing in Joshua Tree since 1981, and it's more than just following in someone's footsteps. Or following someone in more than just their footsteps.
I can't really put it into words, but I probably don't have to.
Thank you Woody.
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Mar 17, 2009 - 12:24am PT
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Woody was recounting the Dog leg episode on the way out Sunday. Sieged by multiple leaders over several weekends till it went free.
This between political polemics that I wholeheartedly encouraged.
He was most proud of that one and the Flakes. He always claimed to hate Double Cross and claimed it hurt his feet.
It wasn't his feet, but his heart.
It troubled him that people had been injured killed on it.
The irascible curmudgeon was all an act.
I'm gonna miss him.
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drljefe
climber
Old Pueblo, AZ
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Mar 17, 2009 - 12:24am PT
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bump
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survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
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Mar 17, 2009 - 12:25am PT
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Woody and Ouch!
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Mimi
climber
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Mar 17, 2009 - 01:32am PT
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May their adventures continue! We miss you both very much!
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drljefe
climber
Old Pueblo, AZ
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Mar 17, 2009 - 01:42am PT
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On my very first post, OUCH was the first to respond....
with the photo of Woody's crotch!
Little did I know I was being "jumped in"
by a couple of legends.
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Mimi
climber
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Mar 17, 2009 - 01:54am PT
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I'm so sorry, Locker. Hang in there, buddy.
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philo
Trad climber
boulder, co.
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Mar 17, 2009 - 01:58am PT
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My deepest condolences to family and friends.
Even though I often spared with Woody on the off topic political blatherfests I always respected the man behind the screen.
This truly is a huge loss to the community.
R.I.P.
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dirtineye
Trad climber
the south
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Mar 17, 2009 - 03:30am PT
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Heard about this today from Skip. Terrible.
At least he was climbing.
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survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
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Mar 17, 2009 - 05:02am PT
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Mar 17, 2009 - 09:37am PT
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RIP Woody.
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Gary
climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
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Mar 17, 2009 - 10:30am PT
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I feel very bad for Woody's friends and especially his family.
But not for Woody. He had a great run, better than most. He had special skills and a special attitude at a special time in a special place.
He had an opportunity to be a pioneer at one of the great climbing destinations in the world, and he seized that opportunity. That's really something.
My meager skills have gotten me up some of his climbs, and have failed me on others of his FAs. Now, I might even forgive him for the humiliation that is Penelope's Walk.
A year or two ago I saw him at Country Kitchen with Tia. I recognized him from all those Ouch! masterpieces. I said nothing, not wanting to interrupt their quiet breakfast, but really do wish I had just said "Hi" now.
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Anastasia
climber
Not here
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Mar 17, 2009 - 02:46pm PT
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bump
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Mar 17, 2009 - 04:34pm PT
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I've been out of touch climbing and taping for a few days with a bunch of geezers in Arizona.
This is so sad.
Please be as careful as you can when climbing. I don't even know what happened but have been through these emotions before. That's the thing about climbing; risk is what makes it interesting, but the cost, well,..
My best wishes go out to friends and family.
I raise my glass to a life well lived.
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Prof. Largo
Sport climber
Chino, CA
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Mar 17, 2009 - 04:40pm PT
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I knew him from Hangar 18. He used to belay Tia from about, oh, thirty feet from the wall, standing under the boulder cave. When I used to work behind the desk, a few years ago, I would have to ask him to not do that. And he would just kind of stare at me before complying. Then five minutes later he'd be doing it again. I had no idea, then, that he was such a legend.
He used to work his way across the ceiling at Hangar, and all the young guys would be wondering, "What the hell is this old dude doing?" But then we'd all shut up when he worked his way across. He would have to take, but hell, he's the only 60+ climber who could even finish it. I always respected him from afar. I wish I had talked to him more, all those days at the Hangar.
Prayers for his family and friends.
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Vulgarian
Trad climber
Riverside CA. (at the base of Mt. Rubidoux)
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Mar 17, 2009 - 05:02pm PT
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So much living - So very sad.
I hope Al, his partner at the time of the accident, is hanging in there.
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F10
Trad climber
e350
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Mar 17, 2009 - 05:08pm PT
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It all started with a thin little orange guide book by John Wolfe.
I kept seeing Woody Stark's name and the other Desert Rats in the guide. You were the guys I looked up to and you made an impression on me. Kinda like RR and all the sixties climbers from the valley.
Thanks for showing the way, you will be missed, R I P
James
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JuanDeFuca
Big Wall climber
Stoney Point
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Mar 17, 2009 - 05:30pm PT
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Woody used to stick up for me all the time on the Taco.
God's Speed.
Jeff
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JTwilly
Trad climber
joshua tree
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Mar 17, 2009 - 06:27pm PT
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Reading Woody's appreciation thread made me realize how fortunate I am to have climbed with him several times. Bill Briggs introduced me to climbing, to Woody, Dick, Don, Bud, and others. I didn't realize I was in the presence of greatness even as I listened to their stories of adventures past. Unless Woody climbed more than once with his broken foot in a cast (which he injured in a fall), I was the one belaying him in the photo as he ascended with one climbing shoe on. He was an amazing climber.
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crazedoldguy
Trad climber
orange park Florida
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Mar 17, 2009 - 06:31pm PT
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I climbed with woody at Devils tower. What a guy. There were 4 of Us with woody being the oldest :) He lived his life of climbing to the fullest. I will miss him badly. He truely has a great heart
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Mar 17, 2009 - 06:38pm PT
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Stern, is that you?
He filled me in on the race across Arizona. How are you doing?
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Mar 17, 2009 - 07:00pm PT
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I wouldn't characterize Woody as a conservative or ideological in any form.
He was a realist, based on an encyclopedic knowledge of history. That there are parallels with "conservative" thought was only coincidental. "Just the facts Mam!"
His house looks like an old bachelors library with wall length shelves and books piled everywhere in various stages of completion. He was always working on reading a novel, history and one other subject at the rate of about three books a week, (when the weather wasn't so good, when it was good he'd choke it down to one or two a week and a Teaching Company DVD class.)
He was always on my ass to finish the latest library swap.
"have you finished it yet?" (400 page tome)
He was always done in a day or two and caught all the detail.
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Mar 17, 2009 - 07:37pm PT
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He was at Hangar 18 the day after he had the cast put on after the Toe Tip incident last year.
The next week he showed up and as soon as he got his feet about head height I noticed that he'd worn a hole all the way thru the heel of his one week old cast.
When he got back down (he was deaf in the left ear I'm deaf in the right. Communication over the music in the gym while climbing is almost impossible) I asked him what he'd done to his cast.
"Speed crutching!"
What's speed crutching?
"I went out and tried to see how fast I could do two miles on crutches"
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Port
Trad climber
San Diego
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Mar 17, 2009 - 08:07pm PT
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Thats a great story Locker, must have been a great day for him.
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drljefe
climber
Old Pueblo, AZ
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Mar 17, 2009 - 10:46pm PT
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Mar 17, 2009 - 10:55pm PT
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Like father like daughter...Woody probably would have called you a puss, but I still love you Locker.
Woody taught his little girl well.
(I prolly would have pussed out too, to Woody's scorn)
That musta made Dad proud that day...among others.
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chanceboarder
Trad climber
Los Angeles, CA
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Mar 18, 2009 - 12:42am PT
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Had a couple photos of Woody laying around from back in '06 and thought I'd post them up.
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Mar 18, 2009 - 01:19am PT
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His full name was Curtis Woodrow Stark, so I can understand why he was nicknamed Woody. But does anyone know why it was that, instead of say Curt?
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:23am PT
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Bump
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:46am PT
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Congrats Woody! I should get your contact info.- it's about time I started climbing with someone my age.
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Mar 18, 2009 - 12:52pm PT
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Mighty Hiker I believe he was named after his father and the father was called, "Curtis".
Maybe Tia can confirm this, or, one of his buddies.
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JuanDeFuca
Big Wall climber
Stoney Point
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Mar 18, 2009 - 01:38pm PT
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This is still so sad.
Juan
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Davec
Social climber
Tucson, Arizona
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Mar 18, 2009 - 07:24pm PT
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Woody's full name is Curtis Woodrow Stark III. His
father was Curtis Woodrow Stark II (mother Kathryn
but spelling may be wrong). I met Woody when he was
6 or 7 (I was 8). He was called Woody then by his parents
and I think the earlier poster was correct on why he
wasn't called Curtis -- Woody's father went by Curtis.
I was shocked and saddended in learning of Woody's
death but amazed at the number of his many climbing
friends and fame within the climbing community. I
will miss him. Jim Foote and Bill Briggs are still
with us from the Early Four.
Davec
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:06pm PT
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hey there davec... say, thanks for the childhood bit of history... i have always looked at and wondered about my friends, as to there childhood... and how they became the man or woman that they be...
i only knew woody by the supertopo, but i still like to understand what made the man, as seeing the whole picture, makes their life even more in depth, as to who we got to know...
*just my feelings, as i have been a mom for many years...
and just have childhood on the brain a lot...
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:38pm PT
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Thanks DaveC for posting that.
Anybody can be a badass at 8, 14, or 25...Woody was a badass at 67. That's impressive in Woody's case because not only was he a badass, but he was a caring father, but an intellectual too.
We should all strive to be what Woody was. A true badass!!!!
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:44pm PT
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hey there bluering.. it was very special to see tia's post on how woody raised two kids that did NOT go to prison...
in the light of how kids turn out these days, from neglect... woody get a trophy for that... even higher than the climbing trophies... :)
*well, said by a non climber, but said by a mom...
(i just nudged the climber aside, justttttttttt a tad, is all)...
still is a greatr accomplishment... as we all know...
:)
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Mar 18, 2009 - 11:56pm PT
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neebee, that is true. I think one of the things he rarely bragged about here was how god his kids turned out.
I think he was humble and protective of his kids. I'll take that lesson to heart raising my son.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Mar 19, 2009 - 05:16pm PT
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hey there ... say, just noticed this was asked for a "bump"...
for photos...
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Hardluck
Social climber
N of Mexico, S of Sanity
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Mar 19, 2009 - 05:27pm PT
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Hangar 18 regret:
I watched the man climb
laughing, knew him by the cast
wish I spoke my name
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Wade Icey
Trad climber
www.alohashirtrescue.com
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Mar 19, 2009 - 06:49pm PT
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all due respect
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drljefe
climber
Old Pueblo, AZ
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Mar 19, 2009 - 07:59pm PT
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bump
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DJS
Trad climber
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Mar 19, 2009 - 08:51pm PT
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Bump
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DJS
Trad climber
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Mar 19, 2009 - 09:01pm PT
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DBL BMP
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal Hell
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Mar 19, 2009 - 09:33pm PT
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I miss you Woody...the picture above tears me apart...I want our daily chats back....I want to see you alive, smiling like the picture above....I want to climb with you again...
I hate this, hate it that you are gone....damn why do things like this have to happen?
God it hurts.
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INAWE
Trad climber
Riverside
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Mar 21, 2009 - 03:34pm PT
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Hi Karen and all others who were close to woody and knew the MAN inside the ROCKCLIMBER:
I agree Karen, I know how close you were to Woody - ...........Why!.....Damn!.........
It is difficult for me to read the comments on here and look at the photos of him as I realize I will never be in the physical presence of this GREAT MAN/ROCKCLIMBER again.I do however know for certain that I am a better person for having known him and to have spent the time I did with him, he will remain in my heart forever.
He let me stay in his home after my divorce-he is a friend's cousin.The only payment was that I climb with him occasionally,I had never been Climbing. I had always thought "that sport is for lunatics".He was a great teacher and made it seem so easy, I quickly fell in love with the exhilerating lunacy.We climbed every weekend for 6 months, ate at the cafe, watched old movies of him iceclimbing and experiencing life. I have great memories of his serious side and dry intellectual humor. He would call me every now and then to climb-but I was too busy. Now I regret not accepting his invitations.He LOVED to climb, he loved to teach,he loved people who loved to climb, he loved his children,he loved Karen, he loved his cats.
I LOVE YOU WOODY-THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND MEMORIES.
Kimberly
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Ropeburn
Trad climber
Riverside, CA
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Mar 22, 2009 - 05:16pm PT
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TGT
Social climber
So Cal
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Mar 22, 2009 - 10:55pm PT
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Woody on the way into the Needles in 07.
It suprised me that he'd never been there. On the way up he had to endure the tour of a sluice and slide gate manufacturing plant in Exeter. It was a combined work/climbing trip for me.
Woody wasn't feeling 100% and we didn't bag Igor which was our goal, I'd done it a few years back and knew he'd like it. We had a favorite climbs swap going. I'd lead his old favorites.(the ones that didn't scare the sh#t out of me) He'd lead mine.
We ended up doing the Tree Route on the way home that Sunday. He was always planing to go back.
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Mar 23, 2009 - 12:04am PT
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Cheers Woody, I thought of you when I was climbing yesterday.
Miss ya, man. Rest in peace.
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Robert Johnston
Trad climber
Woodland Park, CO
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Mar 23, 2009 - 04:29pm PT
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My heart goes out to everyone in Woody's life; his family, friends, companions... everyone.
Woody was an inspiration to me, through my childhood, teens and now as an adult. I was lucky enough to grow up knowing what it was like to be part of the "Climbing lifestyle", traveling with a group of tight friends having fun and enjoying the true meaning of "Climbing". This seems to be a part of Climbing that has been lost, Climbing has turned from a "lifestyle" to a "Sport" and most don't understand the true meaning.
To this day when my dad and I go climb or are sitting around shooting the breeze over a beer or glass of wine, Woody's name always comes up... we reminisce over climbs and good times we had with Woody and his close partner Mike Daughtery. I am always honored to listen to stories from the 1970's with regards to the good times spent between good friends; Mike Orr, Brad Johnston (My dad), Mike Daughtery (Spelled wrong, sorry Mike if you read this) and Woody.
Unfortunitly I never got the oppertunity to say thank you to a good friend and inspiration in my life. Although my time sent with Woody was limited (do to my age at the time) his presence in mind, body and spirit has always been with me through the years. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING WOODY!!!!
A quick story regarding Woody's character:
When I was 11 the group of us were climbing in J-Tree; Mike Orr, Brad Johnston, Mike Daughtery (Sorry again Mike) and Woody. Mike Orr was attempting to lead "Loose Lady" and kept backing off, my old man (Brad Johnston) tried to lead it and backed off... I step up and was being a pest... just wanting to try and lead the climb (I was 11 can you imagine how much of a pest I was), everyone was telling me "NO YOUR TOO YOUNG"... Woody bless his heart steped up and let me lead the climb, against everyone's will... I lead the climb successfully and Woody met me at the top to congradulate... we shared some conversation and Woody took my belay.
I am deeply saddened by this news... Just know Woody that you will always be with me, everytime I put those painful boots on I will think of you. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR BEING AN INSPIRATION!!!
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Mar 23, 2009 - 06:57pm PT
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I just had a thought;
perhaps in his honor we could incorporate the Woodster's name in our vernacular by referring to mutual double checking of tie-ins as a "Woody check".
(Granted there will be some jokes with the name accompanied by apparent crotch exams, but if our hearts are in the right place,..)
What do y'all think?
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Brad Johnston
Trad climber
Divide, CO
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Mar 23, 2009 - 09:34pm PT
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I met Woody in 1971 in Joshua Tree and climbed with him for well over 20 years before moving to Colorado. Woody was a climber's climber, he believed in tradition, he respected the land, the area, and had respect for nature. He was an inspiration in many ways. He was also very intelligent and I respected him as a "person". I'll miss him and his humor. To his family, my best wishes and respect.----and to those that climbed with him, never forget the man. Thank you for the good times, Woody!
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Mimi
climber
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Time for a Woody check bump!
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drljefe
climber
Old Pueblo, AZ
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Locker-
How 'bouts whippin out some Woody memorial stickers?
"Got Wood?"
"Sportin' Wood"
or the classic
"In Loving Memory-Woody Stark"
I'm sure everyone, and folks at the Tar/Stonemaster party, would dig 'em.
Just an idea...
Hang in there dude.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Yeah, Locker, I'm feeling the hurt along with you. I think of Woody's Family and Friends every day and pray for you all.
Today I traded in my car for another that fits my life without Dan. Cars and other things remind us of the people we love... the memories they evoke often fill us with pain, joy, sorrow, thoughts of friendship, great stories and memories and much more.
You can't just say goodnight and goodbye to a very special dude.....it takes Alot of Time to process what you feel. Time.
Peace and Prayers......lynne
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there locker... say, while this is not the same as a death of a loved one (those this did hit me a few times, concering the death of my dear friend in texas)...
but, what i was gonna' share was, this:
when my life fell apart in texas, from my now-ex, and i had to leave my young grandson... every time i saw little kids playing soccer (as i used to be there with him), i would just break down crying, 'cause we were gone from each other... or hearing a young child in the store calling out 'gramma', and many other tiny things...
then, same situation happened again, when i had to leave the next grand child, years later, when i thought my life was fnally fixed, up here, when i had no place to live... (it did not get easier) :(
naturally this why:
breaking the bonds of tried-and-true relationship, is a deep pain that takes years to become strong over (one never forgets, as why should one, as this was union of insight to another person and who they were, whether father, mother, brother, sisters, friend, or child) it is like losing part of our own body tissue (our make-up as a human being), as to how our life has grown---yet, by the grace of the good lord, and prayer, a "buffer" like a scar or scar tissue can form....
and.... as with all scars, the pain is then gone, once the "rent" has healed (unless one hits too hard on that area)... and the loving memories of how one has been able to press-on, but still rememeber the loved one that is not there, becomes the new part of ones life...
displaying the scar is not often done, but at other times the scar is in full view, to others, and as with some of our more well-known cherished buddies (more than an unseen family member) the scar will ALWAYS be seen--yet, in this way, the grace in which we carry on, brings honorable memories to one that died (as that is why we have that scar in the first place, because of the wound of losing them) ...
one day the buffer will come for you locker, and you will have that grace to share more wonderful things about your dear buddy woody, and the pain will be easier to bear (but never lessened as to the meaning of it)---and it will be that the scar will never go away, but the buffer of joy, of even having known him, will carry you onward in life, and be smoothered over, and easier to life with...
ps:
(same, but more private, as to the loss of your ?father was it??? and your brother, i believe it was---if i am not mistaken)...
god bless, to you locker,
from one that understands "rending" and "scar" tissue, and "new life"... a good strong scar of freedom will be there one day, but, as with all wounds, it takes time... and:
time is different, for all, being that all wounds to the tissue of our soul/spirit man, are as different, as humans are versatile...
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Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
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I'd like to see some physical memorial for Woody - like a plaque or something, out at Hidden Valley. Improbable, but hey, I broke in on Woody's routes.
JL
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there largo, say, that sounds nice... with a few notation...
perhaps of the guide book routes and his days with the riverside climbers and rescue work group, too, maybe... ?
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johntp
Trad climber
socal
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What John said. Lets make this happen. Sketchy?
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Letting go of an incredibly special human that has been an intimate part of family, friendship and life is beyond hard.
Transition into the next part of life is a must. I really don't know how to say this well. Forgive me.
People on this Taco have shown me that the ones we love most and hold close will always be with us. Their spirit will come closer to us as we close this part of life and open up a new one.
If all this controversy is dealt with and put to rest it does not mean we won't talk about Woodie anymore. Perhaps he won't be the center of discussion, but the next step will help to heal hearts. There will be a time of hurt, and pain and crying for one that is so loved, but then the real healing of quiet love and respect and peace begins.
The spirit of the one we love becomes cemented in our heart, mind and soul and then they are with us always, every minute and every hour of the day. They come closer to us, not further. They are remembered more....not less. And Peace comes.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Bump for another Woody check!
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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FWIW;
the History Channel is running a series of programs today entitled Battle 360.
In an hour 20 minutes they will start on the Battle of Leyte Gulf which includes the unbelievably bold actions of a task force called TAFFY 3.
The book that Woody so liked that he started a thread about it is about this engagement.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Colorful,,,,ya, he was. And so loved. I think of you all family and friends, each day, and remember you in my prayers. Cheers to an incredible Man as all on the Taco have given stories and testimony to. Peace and Healing, lynne
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Agree Locker, where would one get all the information to do the project ?
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Karen
Trad climber
So Cal urban sprawl Hell
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A few hours ago I finished watching a grim French foreign film, just adore old austere flicks, Bergman ect. After it was over the sadness flooded once again, no Woody to telephone.
See, one of the other things I truly appreciated was his knowledge of film, and his teasing me about my particular taste in film.
If he was here, I would have called him after watching the film and in all likelihood he would have tossed back a funny sarcastic comment on said film, we would then continue to banter about various films.
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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hey there karen... oh my... say... i have not one thing to give to help you tongiht... :(
but i can give a far-off hug and a motherly i love you, and many a prayer for an "anchor of the heart" to form within you, for this awful pain...
god bless, love, from neebee to you, during this hard night...
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Nicci
Social climber
Colton, CA
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May 21, 2009 - 02:40am PT
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These two cats were left behind after the unfortunate accident of their owner, Woody. Mr. Cohen has been looking for a home for these cats for a few months now. Please call only if you are serious about adopting them.
Cats for Adoption
Two sisters, Siamese cats looking for a new home!
Annie & Sasha
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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May 21, 2009 - 04:08am PT
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hey there say, i will pray you find them a home.. i thought they already had one... oh my...
bump, for a good home for these cats...
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MESA97
climber
Newberg, OR
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May 23, 2009 - 12:32am PT
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Sasha and Annie are Woody's two wonderful Siamese Cats that needed a new home. They are sisters. They both went home with some great people. They are settling in very nicely. Their new family is a climbing family. So, they will be able to converse and understand the new family's ways. Also, there is great food for them to eat. And they get to stay in their beloved SoCal desert area.
Their temporary home was great to them. That family was so very good to take them in for a temporary time on short notice. So, they were never unclaimed or abandoned like a lot of Siamese that get left behind.
Woody would never have family or friends that would leave his family or friends "unclaimed or abandoned". Woody's other cat and his dog were also taken home by a great person (also a climber). They got to stay in So Cal also; albeit the beach. But, this way he can visit them at the beach and Sasha and Annie in the High Desert.
Marye Steckley
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MESA97
climber
Newberg, OR
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May 23, 2009 - 12:38am PT
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If anyone would like to author/coauthor/ghost a book about Woody Stark and his great adventure through life, there are plenty of sources. Please contact me if you would seriously like to undertake the project.
He was not only a rock climber, and mountaineer. He was a teacher who was well known for his skills. I believe he was one of the people that was born to teach.
Marye Steckley
Tia Stark and Woody Stark's Mom
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the museum
Trad climber
Rapid City
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May 23, 2009 - 12:43am PT
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Now this is a good thread..
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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May 23, 2009 - 01:17am PT
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hey there, say, marye... you can email me... if someone starts this, i can do transcription... i have a machine..
if someone is too busy to write, etc, but can make various tapes about subjects, time frames, situations, whatever...
then--send me copies and i can transcribe them and send them, as files, back to whoever wants to do this... (if no one can now, i will try, here, as well)... (in between my own books)...
if you cant, or until you do, find a publisher... you can also privately publish it at lulu.com for free---just to get a feel how you want it to look, and how you want it set up---this way, you can change it around.. etc...
sounds like many folks would really love this... god bless...
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kunlun_shan
Mountain climber
SF, CA
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Jul 23, 2013 - 08:34pm PT
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Bump for Woody!
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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May 20, 2019 - 07:03am PT
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hey there, say... a special bump for woody...
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