Alex T writes, “As a paddler and a blogger, I’ve been struggling to figure out the right way to respond to the recent series of incidents on the Arkansas river. As our local papers have covered each incident with all the nuance and grace of a police report, I was looking for a better way to talk about the happenings. Thankfully, a local blogger found a way to celebrate the life of one Volker Beer, the kayaker who recently passed while paddling the numbers section,

“What an amazing pioneer for the sport. It just is amazing the difference between the equipment that ol’ Volker had at his disposal now, versus what he had when he was out gettin’ it done 40 to 50 years ago. I can only hope I’m 70 and out paddling like you. Volker Beer, RIP. “

Here is a video that Mr. Volker created about the early years of whitewater kayaking (and I do mean the EARLY years). It’s well worth a watch.

More details about Volker’s storied life spring from the Mountainbuzz community of whitewater enthusiasts:

“Beer’s relatives said he was an avid triathalete and competed in many athletic competitions in Tucson. He lived on Mount Lemmon when the Aspen Fire burned down his cabin in 2003. Family members said he was not deterred and rebuilt his home from scratch. Family members said Beer escaped from Nazi Germany. He moved to Tucson in 1979 and became an American citizen a few years ago. Beer was a member of the Southern Arizona Paddler’s Club, said Chip Arnberg, past president of club.”
The Southern Arizona Paddlers Club has a tribute to his paddling life up on their site as well.

Putting his life in context helps us all to understand that, while he passed, he passed in the pursuit of a life-long passion. And that is truly what matters most.

My fellow paddlers, please take care enjoying the wonderful high water this season continues to offer.”

You Should Also Check Out This Post:

More Active Posts: