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Jim Whittaker, first American to summit Everest, dies at 97

natureApr 9, 20267429

Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, died at 97. He reached the Everest summit in 1963 and returned decades later with his son. Whittaker led the outdoor retailer REI as president and championed conservation and public lands. He died at his home in Port Townsend, and his ascent and advocacy reshaped American mountaineering and outdoor culture.

Key Highlights

Whittaker summited Everest in 1963, becoming the first American to reach the peak.
He later served as president of outdoor retailer REI, influencing gear and access.
He died at age 97 at his home in Port Townsend, Washington.
3 sources
wandtv.comLegendary mountaineer Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, dies at 97bbc.comJim Whittaker, first American to summit Mount Everest, dies aged 97npr.orgJim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, dies at 97

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Jim Whittaker, first American to summit Everest, dies at 97nature