World class climber Guy Lacelle was killed Thursday at the Bozeman Ice Festival when he was swept off a climb by an avalanche that occurred around 9:30 a.m. He left behind his wife Marge and his constant companion, his dog Jade.


The accident occured when a team above the Canadian triggered a small avalanche that swept LaCelle to his death, a spokesman for the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center told the Associated Press.

 

The Fifth Annual Bozeman Ice Festival ended Sunday. It's goal is to promote the sport of ice climbing to people of all ages and abilities, to educate ice climbers about climbing skills and safe climbing techniques, and introduce climbers to cutting edge ice climbing clothing and equipment.


Management at Arc’teryx Equipment Inc., which helps sponsor the event along with several outdoor retailers and Montana Alpine Guides, issued a press release Friday expressing their sympathy for the family and deep sadness over the loss.

A two-time winner of the Ouray Ice Festival climbing competition, Lacelle’s accomplishments earned him the Banff Centre for Mountain Culture’s prestigious Summit of Excellence Award.


“Guy was a great, great person,” said John Irvine, newly-named director of international sales said. “He epitomized dignity and integrity. His Zen climbing style was peaceful, relaxed, and smooth; and he was always happy and positive. His passion for adventure and drive to see and explore new places and cultures made Guy a real pioneer, and his charming personality made him a pleasure to work with. Guy’s real magic was his passion for sharing the sport. He was a regular at the festivals; teaching clinics and passing on his wisdom.”


“I am deeply saddened by this loss, yet I will take comfort that I had his friendship, and we at Arc’teryx had the opportunity to work with such a rare and wonderful person,” said Irvine.