CANMORE – A solo ice climber who died after a fall on Cascade Falls in Banff National Park on Christmas Day is being remembered by friends and coworkers as having lived a big life.
Friends and coworkers identified the 26-year-old climber as Canmore resident Carl Hawkins, who was originally from Ontario and will be deeply missed by those who knew him in the community.
Hawkins lived in his van behind Save-On-Foods, worked at Valhalla Pure Outfitters on Main Street and enjoyed a wide variety of outdoor pursuits in the Rocky Mountains, according to those who knew him.
“It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of a beloved member of our Valhalla family on Dec. 25,” posted the business on social media. “Carl was a passionate climber, van dweller and a great friend. His zest for life, quirky sense of humour and all around charm were something truly special. He will be greatly missed.
“We send our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and anyone lucky enough to know him.”
According to RCMP, Hawkins was discovered by two ice climbers on Christmas Day at 11 a.m. at the base of Cascade Falls, a popular route near the Banff townsite.
Const. Mike Hibbs said he died of his injuries as a result of falling a significant distance down the ice climbing route.
“Carl lived life big,” wrote friend Bobby Seeber on his Facebook page. “Bigger than most. Everyone dreams … but few act on those dreams. Carl did.
“He was the bright star that lit up everyone within orbit … with a glint in his eye, an infectious smile, and razor humour. That light has been dimmed and we are the lesser for it. But the warmth of that light is not forgotten.”
Philippe Marquis-Driard shared his experience ice climbing with Hawkins at the end of November on an unknown and unnamed route accessed from the Icefields Parkway on Totem Tower.
Marquis-Driard said he was impressed with his friend’s attitude and mindset, never losing his temper and remaining calm, focused and always optimistic.
“If there’s two things we can really learn from Carl, it’s his incredibly grateful attitude, and how purposefully simple his life was,” he wrote, adding to honour his friend he intends to apply to have the route named after him. “Carl has left us, but he will be remembered in the mountains he called home and in our hearts.”
