Tragedy produces heroic efforts

Dear Editor:

On behalf of our friends, the Smith-Nelson family of Winter Park, we want to thank all of the exceptional people who put their lives on the line to rescue Spencer Nelson after his tragic fall off of the Maroon Peak traverse this past Saturday.

All of the members of Mountain Rescue Aspen, the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department, Colorado National Guard, the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Forest Service, Flight for Life, Mr. Sowell from Western State College who aided Peter on the long hike down, Mike Cronin of Grand County Search and Rescue who rappelled to Spencer and helped bring him out with Alex, who happened to be in the area, and the numerous others who assisted, thank you.

We also want to thank Mike and Alex from the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism in delivering the news to our friend, Peggy, about the loss of Spencer. You are all heroes to us and because of your help and dedication, we can move forward with celebrating Spencer’s young life with all whom he affected. We wish you all could have known him – he was a remarkable young man, and we are certain his parents want you all to know how thankful they are for everything you did.

Jeff, Julie Ann, Elizabeth and Tim Woods

Snowmass Village