SJ’s acclaimed outdoorsman turns 100
February 21, 2012 · 2:35 PM
Wolf Bauer, who launched his engineering career in 1936 with Roche Harbor Lime & Cement Co. and later became a noted conservationist and outdoorsman, will celebrate his 100th birthday, this Saturday.
Bauer was honored two years ago by the state Legislature, on his 98th birthday, with a resolution presented by the state House of Representatives. The resolution outlines Bauer’s many accomplishments as a mountaineering pioneer and as a designer of kayaks.
His designs and innovations led to the development of the modern fiberglass kayak, as well as the sport of kayaking itself.
Bauer is perhaps best known, however, for his achievements in mountaineering. In 1935, he made the first ascent of the Ptarmigan Ridge on the north face of Mount Rainier, along with Jack Hossack, reaching the summit in two days. About 15 years later he created the Mountain Rescue and Safety Council, known today as Mountain Rescue Council, and served as council chairman for its first six years.
A resident of Anacortes, Bauer’s daughter-in-law, Ingrid Fabinson, and granddaughters, Sara and Laura Bauer, live on San Juan Island.
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