Ted Hegg

I don't think I'll ever forget my first climb with you and GHAS. Remember Memorial weekend of 1981 out to climb Distal Phalanx and Styloid. I enjoyed my first ever Tyrolean traverse as we crossed Thunder Creek. As I recall you crossed a small wet log jammed in the chasm about 12 feet above the roaring creek and we belayed you, though it seemed more like fishing with live bait.

The hike up through the "burn" up and over downed trees with full packs was glorious only in retrospect. At the time I was sure I would die of exhaustion and only wished death would come soon. I recall your giving me some words of wisdom and comfort for my weary body when we finally arrived at our campsite that night. Always the eastern mystic, you asked me to visualize my wife sucking my toes and all would be better.

In all seriousness, exploring the Cascades with you has been one of the great joys of my life. Your fantastic knowledge of the terrain and history together with the humor and camaraderie that we have shared up in the mountains is something that I will never forget. I need to join you again soon for a trip.

Best wishes on your 60th. Hope you lose just a little of your endurance so I can keep up.

Ted Hegg

Copyright 2004, John W. Roper. All Rights Reserved.