American skier Michael Gardner, 32, died in a mountain climbing accident in Nepal while attempting a new route with his climbing partner, Sam Hennessey. Hennessey successfully descended the route with a French team after the incident. Gardner’s body could not be found, only some of his belongings. This was Hennessey’s third attempt climbing the North Face of Jannu East and his second with Gardner.
Gardner, a Colorado native, was a second-generation mountain guide who learned from his father, George Gardner. Unfortunately, George died in a climbing accident in 2008. Mike was described as a ‘true climber’s climber’ by Arc’teryx, his sponsor, who also remembered him as a curious, loving, and engaging person who loved to share his knowledge and experiences in skateboarding, skiing, climbing, and other activities.
Despite his numerous accomplishments in climbing rock walls and mountains at a fast pace, Gardner was humble and focused on sharing his passion with others. He valued pushing boundaries with ethics, style, and respect for those who came before him. Gardner is survived by his mother and sister, who remember him as a kind, passionate adventurer who inspired those around him.
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