RIP Bela Vadasz – 1953-2015
The mountain community is deeply saddened that legendary guide Bela Vadasz passed away at age 62 during a medical procedure this week. RIP.
Bela was known for following his passions for human powered mountain travel – especially in the ski mountaineering niche. He was an visionary in the guiding world. In 1979, he established Alpine Skills International – one of the most respected guiding companies in the US – with his wife Mimi Maki-Vadasz. ASI is based out of Truckee, California and leads backcountry skiing, rock climbing, ski mountaineering, and avalanche training around the world.
Bela touched the lives of many of his clients, but he was more than just a guide. Bela was instrumental in establishing guiding standards for the American Mountain Guide Association and raising US standards to an international level. He served as the technical director of the AMGA’s ski mountaineering program. He helped found the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. He was one of the first Americans to be IFMGA licensed. He was awarded the AMGA lifetime achievement award in 2008. And he did it all while following his passion for the mountains.
The mountain community and guiding world will miss Bela Vadasz. Condolences go out to his friends and family. RIP.
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