Derek Hersey

Sad news today that Derek's mum has passed. RIP Wyn.

Hi Mic,

That is sad news about Wyn, and if I am correct that is the passing of all of Derek's immediate family.

When Derek fell, I spent quite a bit of time with Wyn and Geoff on their visit to Boulder. Wyn told me at the time, "it's not natural for a mum to outlive her son." That comment really stuck with me all of these years, and when they lost their second son at an early age (heart attack if I remember), I've always felt especially bad for Wyn.

She was an exceptional woman, and it was plain that much of Derek's personality came from her very strong and "plucky" spirit. I'd also say his parents love of throwing down a pint or three had a strong influence on Derek.

Recently, while climbing in Washington state, I saw Sheaf Stout in the store, and just had to buy one for old time's sake. I hadn't had one in years, since they stopped carrying them at Liquor Mart. That will be my toast to Wyn, Derek, Geoff, Norman and the fond memories I have from so many years ago.

Sad news.

I'll toast them tonight too.

Got to chime in. I was a "nobody climber" (still am)...a punk kid with little going for him and not really going any where fast, except maybe to the nearest party. None of that seemed to bother Derek and he just wanted to climb. We climbed in Eldo, Boulder Canyon, The South Platte and The Black Canyon. I had the opportunity to be with Brad White to watch Derek free solo the Scenic Cruise from the other side of the "Ditch" or the "Splat" as he used to call it. I'm not sure I appreciated just how good he was because I was such a newbie when I first started climbing with Him. When I learned he did stuff without a rope that I could not even touch I was a little mesmerized and he became a living legend in my mind. It's kinda weird when your friend is legendary. He was a friend beyond climbing who's company I enjoyed immensely as we shared curried chicken, or tea or copious amounts of Sheaf Stout. Every visit was filled with joy, stories and laughter. He was an amazing guy and an incredible climber with an insatiable appetite for the vertical. I miss the punter as do all who had the opportunity to know him as a friend, which is just about everyone he met. As far as stories, on of my favorites was Derek telling us that as he free soloed some route in Arches National Park that a guy was yelling, "Get down from there or you'll die". I can see in my mind how in classic Derek fashion he shouted back, "Sorry, can't hear you cause yer mouths full of shit!"

So sad to hear about Wyn - she was an amazing lady, always ready with a cuppa when we used to pick Derek up for a day on the rocks.

Yo Matt Borg! What's up? Seeing your post brought back some rather wild memories from the Boulderado, and also sitting on the South Rim, watching Derek solo the Scenic. Didn't we bring him a Big Mac from the McD's in Montrose to fuel him up Journey Home and the Leisure Climb? I think the three of us also did the Checkerboard Wall together on that trip, and I remember you getting uncharacteristically quiet when you saw the "thin" belay Derek and I were hanging at as you climbed up to us.

The last time I saw you, I think you were going off to school in Gunnison.

You still climbing? Livin' in Colorado somewhere? Contact me and let's catch up.

Sweet Brad! I remember the same details although I forgot about the Mickey "D's" you are right. I live in Fruita. Look me up at otr2imd@gmail.com or mborg@martinezinsurancegj.com I do still climb...love to catch up.

Yeah Brad, a lot of info from Michelle (Derek's niece). Aside from Michelle and her mother (Norman's wife) , the Hersey clan has passed. We celebrate knowing and sharing with them.

From Climbing Magazine #131 (April/May 1992)

Hi guys, I’m wondering if someone could give me Keith ainsworths address as I’m planning a reunion w for my dad ( Stephen Cope) he climbed with Derek Hersey and Keith in the early 80’s any information would be much appreciated