My first meaningful interaction with Kellen Sams was when I nearly poisoned him as a freshman. Not realizing the "seasoning" packets in the Mountain House meal I had just prepared for his dinner was actually silica gel, I almost let him eat it. He may have taken a bite before I slapped it out of his hand. After that, my interactions with Kellen involved nudity, building aid routes in the hallway, red wine, smelly paddling gear, tractor pulls, and a lot of other really fond memories. I'll always have those, and the knowledge that Kellen more than anything appreciated a good adventure. It's only appropriate that he went out doing what he loved so much- relishing in the beauty of the great outdoors. You taught me how to properly portage a canoe (by making someone else do it), that all of the maps and books misspelled the name of "Mount Kellenmanjaro," and how to use a Whisperlite without burning my face off. Thanks man.
"Climb if you will, but remember that courage and strength are naught without prudence, and that a momentary negligence could destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste, look well to each step, and from the beginning think what may be the end." -Edward Whymper
Montani Semper Liberi- mountaineers are always free men. Rest in peace Kellen- I'll see you later.
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