Kenneth M. Winters, 1923-1981

Publication Year: 1982.

KENNETH M. WINTERS 1923-1981

The climbing community has lost one of its most conscientious friends. Ken died of a heart attack while leading a climb on Mount Shasta on May 24, 1981.

Born in Portland, Oregon on April 19, 1923, he was graduated from Lincoln High School and attended Reed College. During World War II he served with the Mountain Troops, and later with the Infantry. He was wounded while in combat in Germany. Returning to Portland, he was graduated from Reed College in 1948. In 1950 he married Anne Wheeler.

He started working with his father’s insurance agency, then trained as an accountant and worked for a time with the Internal Revenue Service. Upon his father’s death, he returned to the insurance business.

Ken joined the Mazamas in 1961. His contributions to the club over the next 19 years are outstanding: he began leading climbs and hikes in 1965; was recipient of all climbing and climb leadership awards; awarded the Parker Cup in 1976; served two sessions on the Executive Council; was elected President in 1972 and again in 1975; served on numerous committees: Climbing, Outing, Trail Trips, Publications, Trust, Budget, Long Range Planning, Insurance, House and Program.

Ken was an awesome source of energy. He ran several marathons, one of which was completed shortly before he had open-heart surgery. As a climber, he was eternally optimistic. No matter how rotten the weather or the route, his vote always was: “Let’s hang on for a while … things will improve.” As climb leader, his planning and organization were unsurpassed. Concern for party safety was always foremost in his mind. Ken climbed extensively in the U.S., Canada, and in Europe.

Ken was a frequent contributor of articles and photographs to the Mazama Annual Publication, as well as to other publications.

He led several major outings, including one to Banff National Park.

Ken is survived by his wife, Anne, two daughters, Jane Snyder of

Pullman, Washington, and Mary Rosenfeld of Portland, a brother, Lovelle of Portland, and one granddaughter, Hannah.

Kenneth A. Hague