Monday, June 22, 2009

Andy T. Knapp

This morning produced some more sad news, unfortunately. Midwest Mountaineering lost a dear friend this morning when Andy Knapp passed away. Andy was diagnosed with Cancer about 6 years ago and fought it the entire way.

I didn't get to spend enough time with Andy to know him well, but by all accounts he's a remarkable man. It seemed that everyone he touched had some story to share about him. He was just an electric person that befriended everyone he met. The outpouring from the outdoor industry has been immense and he'll be greatly missed. I feel like I missed out by not taking the time to get to know him better.

An adventurer true and true, Andy made 2 epic solo cycling trips to Alaska. The first trip was a "there and back" deal and he met up with many people on the same journey. One of those cyclists would eventually star in the TV show "MacGyver". I always thought that was kinda cool. His second trip was made just two years ago as a 40 year anniversary of sorts. He did this latter trip while diagnosed with Cancer, mind you.

Andy was incredibly strong and will be sorely missed. Please go to his website for more information and even more stories about this incredible man.

There has been too much of this recently.

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