Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Everest in 1963, has died at 97. A legendary mountaineer who broke barriers in exploration.
Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest in 1963, has died at age 97 at his home in Port Townsend, Washington. His mountaineering achievements and leadership at REI made him a prominent figure in outdoor and climbing communities. He was also known for his friendship with Robert Kennedy and his pioneering spirit.