Had to stop an reflect this a bit, how weird it is to first hear about a person on the day they die. "At least he died doing what he loved." Seems appropriate, but I don't know that for sure - and for me it's hard to muster up emotion for someone I'll never know or have a conversation with. I'm happy that someone bothered to chase a dream, and I hope his end was somewhat peaceful or at least quick.
Stories like this are always bittersweet. While the way Ueli enjoyed the outdoors was different from the way I enjoy the outdoors, I can't help but feel a certain familiarity. I feel like I understand, at least a little, what drives someone to do something like Everest or the climb he was prepping for. It's sad to see them go, but I can appreciate why.