Thursday, May 03, 2007

RIP

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Two experienced climbers found dead on Grand Teton earlier this week had tumbled about 1,500 feet down a steep snowy slope after one of their anchors gave way, a park official said today.

Why the anchor gave way is not known and might never be known, park spokeswoman Jackie Skaggs said. The anchor could have popped loose, or a rock could have fallen from above and knocked the anchor loose, she said.

Alan Rooney, 38, and Jonathan Morrow, 28, both of nearby Kelly, were experienced climbers, had the right equipment and were wearing helmets.

They were found roped together at the10,650-foot elevation of the 13,766-foot mountain. Skaggs said the two were preparing to climb a couloir on a part of the Grand Teton known for “some serious terrain” and rockfall. Friends of the two climbers planned two memorial ceremonies onSaturday in their honor.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jonathan Morrow is my brother. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers. Jonathan was an amazing person who brought joy to everyone around him. He died doing what he loved the most, and I'm sure that he wouldn't have it any other way. He accomplished so much in the short 28 years of his life. He completed the Appalachian Trail, he hiked the Continental Divide Trail, he lived in Antarctica for two six month periods, He hiked and climbed all around South America and New Zealand. He was passionate about life and he lived every day to the fullest living his dreams. Jonathan will always have a special place in the hearts of all those that knew him.

Anonymous said...

My deepest sympathy to the families of the climbers. From reading Josh's account of his brother's life, I would say he packed in an incredible adventure and accomplished so much. There are those who do and those who never leave the safety of the Lazyboy.

Dena Rosenberry said...

Jonathan does, indeed, sound like he packed a lot of fun and adventure into his life. And I'm glad he could. His family and friends are in my thoughts. Remember his passion and zest for life!