All the climbs only tell part of the story.  For Eric, the history of the sport he loved was equally as important as the part he was playing in that story.  Recognizing that many of the pioneers of the sport had either died or grown old, Eric set out to record the stories of those still surviving with video interviews.  These tapes and videos, along with historic still and motion pictures, were collected with the intention of producing a comprehensive documentary on the history of the sport. Although he was not able to complete the project, because of his work, much of this valuable history has been preserved.  He also involved himself in local conservation issues, and served as the chairman of the Sierra Nevada Section of the American Alpine Club.  Later, when he moved to New Mexico with Carol, he not only continued climbing and the development of new routes, but also became an active member of the Grant County Search and Rescue.

For those of us who knew and loved Eric, he was a larger than life person.  He approached all things with passion and honesty, and it’s hard to believe he isn’t still here.  The world is a poorer place without him, and he will be missed.  Donations to continue work on the preservation and creation of films celebrating the history of climbing in America and abroad can be made in Eric’s name to: The American Alpine Club Library, c/o Bridget Burke, 710 Tenth Street, Suite 100, Golden, CO 80401.

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