14ers.com

RIP. Sounds like Derek was an incredible guy. It's been a terrible year in the Elks and on the 14ers in general. Thanks to all the climbers who helped during the tragedy. It's people like that who make this forum, and more importantly this community, a great one to be a part of.

Mark, if I could attend tomorrow I would. Please pass my condolences to Derek's family, as well as to yourself. Thank you for keeping us in the loop.

God Bless.

JB99 wrote: If any of Derek's family/friends wants a digital copy I'd be happy to send it to them. If the family would like, I'd be happy to get a print done and send it to them. Anyone who is in contact with them can shoot me a PM and let me know, or post on here and we'll figure out the details.

I sent you a PM.

Mark.

Okay, here it goes:

I suck at this, so please forgive me. I did not know Derek, but I knew of him well. Once of his closest friends, Nathan Hoobler, is among my most valued friends and climbing partners. We climb together frequently and talk constantly. He spoke of Derek many times and he was always someone that I wanted to climb with.

Nathan is a friend that I hold in the highest regard. He has taught me more about myself than words can explain and has even taken my son under his wing. I have no doubt that Derek was the same type of man. I don't know what I would do if I lost my friend and brother Nathan. I know that he is going through that pain now. He will be attending his memorial tomorrow. I cannot imagine what Derek's family is going through right now.

I don't know why I'm writting this. But hey, if you have someone in your life that is truly a friend.... tell them how you feel.

JB, that is a beautiful photo. It is especially poignant it was taken approximately when Derek fell.

I won’t be at the service, but I’ll take a walk around that time to think about Derek and his family and friends.

My heart goes out to all the family and friends. Always sad to see the mountaineering community, family, and friends lose a great one.

Prayers go out to you all. May peace be with you.

I am so saddened to hear this. I climbed this route solo, 2 months ago. I am a 33-year old father of 3. There are no words for deep saddness that I feel for the loss fellow climber. My deepest condolences for all of his family and friends.