Rad was an inspirational figure, as a friend and as a fellow adventurer. Friendship came in college and adventure in the past couple of years. I am blessed to have spent time with him while on several trips to Jackson Hole, a true friend- Rad demonstrated to me the value of patience and generosity.
In Winter of 2019 I found myself in Jackson on a ski trip. Rad was one of the first people I contacted, however I assumed that he’d only be available for a quick beer. Thankfully I was wrong and even though my skiing skills weren’t up to par he included me with his crew (Stuart, Wick, and others) to ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Truth be told, I was scared to follow his lead and we even went off into the trees, but he led me every step of the way to make sure that I could hang around with the gang. While on the mountain, Rad took us to all the secret tree-lined mountain huts to relax and exchange conversation. As Rad put it later that day “we acquired hut knowledge.” Rad’s guidance later gave me the confidence to take on Rendezvous Bowl, the highest peak on the resort accessible by lift, solo in whiteout conditions, a goal I had pondered but disregarded at the beginning of the trip.
I pride myself on having a lot of great friends, but his voicemail at the end of this trip struck me as one of the sincerest gestures of friendship I have ever received. Rad instilled confidence in me and I became a better skier, more importantly he taught me how to treat others better.
In Summer 2020, I found myself on a cross country road trip and once again in Jackson. Of course, the first thing I did was call Rad, and at that moment he was coincidentally across the street. Once again, he welcomed me with open arms and acquainted me with his friends.
That night Rad informed me that he was mountain biking on July 4th with his friend Margaret and that I should join them. Considering myself to be a great mountain biker I agreed but I later realized that my skills were once again not up to par. On our 15+ mile traverse behind SnowKing Mountain in Bridger National Forest, I was constantly lagging Margaret and Rad. Despite this fact, Rad was always there waiting for me and routing me on. Like the prior snowy adventure, Rad was thrilled to have an out of towner tag along.
At the top of the mountain, I distinctly remember a special moment where we ate apples and admired the view. I kept apologizing for slowing him down and all he would say is “you’re a beast to be out here with us.” Like the time we went skiing, that comment instilled a lot of confidence in me whether he meant it or not. It made the ride memorable for all the right reasons including the fact that it taught patience.
I credit Rad for making me a better skier and mountain biker, Rad patiently coached me to the next level in both activities. More importantly however, Rad was a kind and generous friend who taught me how to treat others better. Thank you Rad, I’ve lost a friend but gained a legend to continue to look up to.
