Elizabeth Lunney
The Mountaineers is deeply saddened to learn of the death of noted climber and philanthropist Doug Walker. Doug served on the Advisory Council of The Mountaineers, and was an important friend and mentor to many of us. Our hearts go out to his wife and partner, Maggie and daughter, Kina, and to the many people whose lives he touched as a climber, teacher, and advocate.
There is not a corner of the outdoor community that did not benefit from Doug’s involvement in land conservation and outdoor education. The Mountaineers is no exception. Doug volunteered as a youth leader, teaching young kids how to climb and sharing with them his unbridled love for the outdoors. He provided seminal leadership in connecting The Mountaineers with the Outdoor Alliance, helping give a stronger voice to recreation access and conservation at a national level. Doug co-chaired The Mountaineers Peak Society and together, Doug and Maggie co-chaired Mountaineers events, including last year’s sold-out BREAKTHROUGH gala. Most important, Doug was always on call for advice, counsel, and encouragement.
Those of us who knew Doug grieve what we have lost. And all of us who climb, hike, or otherwise find ourselves whole when we are outside, we all grieve for what the world is now missing: an ardent and tireless champion for the wilderness, a testament to the idea that life is best lived with a generous heart and strong purpose.
