I had the pleasure of crossing paths with John when I was a basic climbing student
this year. I say pleasure, but pleasure mixed with some trepidation. Whenever I was assigned to his group or station my first reaction was, “oh no I got Hazelton”. But, I quickly learned that he knew his stuff and you would be best to not forget it once he taught it to you.
John was also the leader on my first basic rock climb. Our intended target was Chair Peak, but once John got a look at it he declared there was too much snow on the summit slope for us rookies and we wisely changed course to the Tooth. All went well until on our first rappel down, one of the rope teams got their rope stuck and could not pull it free. Of course it was John who climbed back up to free the rope. When he got back down he said he had to unclip and free climb the last bit; he had a big smile on his face and a gleam in his eyes as he told that part.
We stopped for a celebratory meal in North Bend afterwards and John regaled us with story after story, even more so after his second beer. I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to know him better or longer, but I’m thankful for the time I had with him. He was a great leader and his confidence inspired me and helped make me confident in my abilities.
Climb on, John!
Bryan Gillette
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