Everest Pioneer and REI Legend Jim Whittaker Dies at 97

Jim Whittaker, the first American to stand atop Mount Everest, has died at age 97. He reached the world's highest peak in 1963. At that time, fewer than ten people were known to have achieved the feat. Whittaker was also a prominent executive at the outdoor retailer REI. He helped grow the company from a small cooperative into a major national brand. His historic climb came during a U.S. expedition. It was a significant moment in the Cold War era, showcasing American exploration. Whittaker's legacy bridges groundbreaking high-altitude adventure and the popularization of outdoor recreation for the public.