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Chief
climber
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Topic Author's Original Post - Jul 7, 2009 - 10:47am PT
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I know the reality of John's passing hasn't even settled in for most of us yet. My friend Peder came by for a visit yesterday and we talked about how hard John's death was hitting us, we were at a loss for words and acutely aware of how much of an influence John had been in our lives.
We met John in Camp 4 back in 76 during our first trip to the Valley. He was basically God and we were hapless gumbies from the far north. Back then John could be a lot more aloof than cordial and there was always a sense of the pecking order and we were strictly bottom feeders. Over the decades as we all got to know each other a bit better and as our lives began to be defined by things other than climbing, found more commonality. John gave a great presentation in Vancouver a couple years ago and he was a much more relaxed and congenial man than in the old days and as inspiring as ever.
John was the same age as me and he's been an inspiration and the leader of our tribe for over three decades. His passing in some ways marks the end of a great era, a formative time for many of us fortunate enough to have been around through John's time.
I can imagine what a difficult time this is for John's family and close friends and the need to respect their privacy is paramount. At the same time John's passing has touched many of us who weren't as close, in a deep and profound way. I'm hoping to hear that there will be some kind of get together in Yosemite, maybe as early as this weekend where we can gather and celebrate John's amazing life and share our grief at his passing. If something's planned let us know, if not, let's get on it.
Thanks to Mike and Phil and all the others who have posted great photos and stories about John. My condolences to all who are feeling this great loss.
Perry Beckham
Squamish
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Thanks, Perry. I'll attend any memorial that happens, if I possibly can. I too remember John, and the golden days of our youth.
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Anastasia
climber
Not here
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I am talking with his family and they are very busy figuring this out while trying to deal with their own emotions. This is hard so please be patient. They will post up when they get it done. Please just send them all the support and love. It is what they need the most.
AF
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Seattle, WA
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Those are some nice words, Perry. Thanks. You hit the nail on the head with a couple of those lines.
Down the road, when things settle down, I could possibly organize a small local gathering of Supertopians here in Seattle to honor John and others who have recently passed. I imagine that the official gathering will be in Cali, but for those who can't travel right now, it might be nice to share some words and wine with our comrades. Post up your thoughts.
Wayne.
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the kid
Trad climber
fayetteville, wv
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very well said Perry.
Good to hear from you on the ST.
KS
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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There is talk of a few from Vancouver/Squamish attending, though method of travel remains to be seen. Depends on all the usual details. If by car, we'd probably pass through Seattle.
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10b4me
Boulder climber
Neil Young land
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I will definitely try and be there. where ever it is
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