Former West Seattleite Chad Kellogg killed in Patagonia rockfall

Famed climber and former West Seattle resident Chad Kellogg, 42, has died in Argentina after a rockfall in Patagonia. A WSB reader wrote to share the sad news as early reports surfaced such as this one at Climbing.com; tonight the news also has appeared at SeattleTimes.com (WSB partner) and TheNewsTribune.com. Mr. Kellogg lived in West Seattle seven years ago when a climbing mishap killed his 38-year-old wife Lara-Karena Kellogg (mentioned briefly on WSB in April 2007), whose family are longtime West Seattleites. The person who e-mailed us says Mr. Kellogg “should be recognized and remembered as a great man who accomplished incredible things, most notably — speed ascents, summiting peaks, defeating cancer, to name a few.” The Times story details many of those accomplishments; the Climbing report notes that “in recent years he had accomplished many superb ascents.” No word yet of memorial plans.

4 Replies to "Former West Seattleite Chad Kellogg killed in Patagonia rockfall"

  • Eaglelover February 16, 2014 (10:06 pm)

    RIP Chad a former Olypian and one that lost his wife in a similar incident.

  • a friend February 16, 2014 (10:34 pm)

    You and I were alone at the gravel parking lot at the Lower Town Wall, You sat on the tailgate of your home and smiled like only someone can who is doing exactly what he wants to. Your smile and your eyes are full of generosity as if there is So much to give and nothing to lose.

    I love what you brought to my life, how you gave me your full attention and never wasted time getting to what matters most.

    I will miss you.

  • WestsideDean February 17, 2014 (9:46 am)

    Chad lived life fully here, “all in” as they say. While his sudden death is a shock and a moment of sadness I can’t help but be inspired by his life and how he lived it. Amazing man he was, who lead many to experience the beauty and grace of the mountains. Peace to you Chad, and I hope you are enjoying the view up there.

  • montanapup February 17, 2014 (9:46 am)

    Chad – I feel cheated having you taken away so suddenly. Your smile, and friendship infectious, the discussions of sufferfest climbing. Our last conversation was of lard and duck fat and you shook your head laughing at Mandy and I over our love of such decadent rich food. I’ll miss your hug and your encouragement – your sunshine. You are Sunshine. I, We will miss you terribly – and I can only find comfort in knowing that our friends in the Cerros will make sure you are ok. You were loved. You are loved. I’ll see you on the otherside – tell Lara we miss her too.

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