Will Stanhope: Family pay tribute to professional rock climber who was killed after plunging down mountain
Tributes are pouring in for an acclaimed climber who is being remembered as ‘a gentle man with a fantastic sense of humour.’
Tributes are flowing for a professional rock climber who was killed when he fell 20 metres from a mountain in Canada.
Will Stanhope was trekking the popular route of Rutabaga when he plunged down the Stawamus Chief mountain near Squamish in British Columbia on April 13.
The 39-year-old sustained severe injuries and was rushed to hospital after local emergency services were called to the location following reports of a fallen climber, CBC reported.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The climber had fallen approximately 20 metres and had sustained serious injuries,” Christy Allan from Squamish Search and Rescue said.
“The subject was stabilised and due to the rough terrain and nature of the injuries, we arranged a long-line rescue to our forward operating base at St’a7mes School, where we were met by BC Ambulance.”
Despite the efforts of first responders, Mr Stanhope sadly died on 23 April in hospital, ten days after the fall.
The renowned climber’s family shared their heartbreak in a touching statement.
“It is with shattered hearts that we share the news that our beloved Will passed away,” the statement read.
“A severe head injury sustained after a fall on a route called Rutabaga, on the Squamish Chief, was the cause.
“Will lived with a passion and courage that most of us only dream of.
“He was a kind and gentle man with a fantastic sense of humour. The rock was his home, and the climbing community was his family. He faced every ascent with an inspiring spirit.
“To all of you who climbed with him, followed his journey, and loved him: thank you for being part of his adventurous life.”
The sport’s wider community is remembering the climber as a “total sweetheart” and offered condolences to the Stanhope family
“We were heartbroken to learn of Will Stanhope’s passing earlier this week. Will was a climber’s climber—a purist who deeply appreciated the sport’s history,” a statement posted to the Reel Rock’s Instagram, a climbing documentary production company.
“He moved beautifully on rock. His simple, adventurous approach to the sport brought him many friends and admirers.
“Will was a total sweetheart whose quick wit could make a surprise appearance in any conversation.
“We will miss you, Will. We send our condolences and love to his family and many friends.”
Mr Stanhope was nine when his dad introduced him to the high-adrenaline sport.
He later went on to become one of Canada’s boldest rock climbers and was well-known for free solo climbing, which involves no safety gear or ropes.
One of his career highlights includes being one of the first to complete a free ascent on The Prow on Stawamus Chief, a route that is considered steep and challenging by professional climbers.
