Monika Johnson missing near alpental....

Like so many others on here, I met Monika first through the glacier ski class as a student. As one of two women taking the class, Monika's warm smile and obvious competence were inspiring throughout the classroom and field sessions. Subsequent to that class, I realized Monika & I shared many friends- she touched the lives of so many. It is rare to encounter such a shining light in this world; colors and adventures don't seem as bright without her in it.

"I shall be ever richer for this sorrow." Wallace Stegner

Peace to you, Monika, and all whose lives she touched.

Kathleen

wondering if it would honor Monika’s memory if a few of us started thinking of it as “Monika’s Peak”

I think this is a very sweet tribute.  Also, one of Ryan's nicknames for Monika is "Red". 

It is a beautiful thing that "Monika's Peak" or "Red Mountain" both honor her.

I had only met Monika once or twice but really knew of her through her amazing energy and enthusiasm for backcountry skiing as is evidenced on this website.

Her passing is a very sad event but from the posts here she has left an indelible mark on the lives of many and will not be soon forgotten.

Condolences to her family and many, many friends.

There is more info about discovering Monika's skis and pack at the summit of Red Mountain on February 2, along with the following days' events, posted on Greg Louie's blog. Very interesting to read his firsthand account of such a shocking find:

www.randosaigai.com/incoming.html

He archives older posts, so the permanent link to those posts will eventually be at www.randosaigai.com/feb_11.html

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I also wrote some additional thoughts of my own about Monika on Sunday, after she was found and brought out from the mountains. They are posted, along with some photos of Monika, in a reply to my trip report from the same day that her accident occurred:

February 1, 2011, Mt Rainier, More Muir Sunshine

I first met Monika almost 10 years ago, and was immediately impressed with her unassuming but formidable strength, and that big smile. We subsequently did many trips together. It is deeply saddening to know there will never be another. I consider it a privilege to have known her. We will miss you, Monika.

Such a tough loss all around. I feel fortunate to have gotten to know Monika over the years, mostly through the Glacier Skiing/Crevasse Rescue courses. Her great enthusiasm and positive impressions on the ski community will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences to Ryan and to Monika's family.
--Chris

p.s. Carter- thanks for sharing the friends group photo from Kam and Allyson's wedding; I'd forgotten about that pic: another good example of Monika's great smile.