We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Whittaker. Jim will be remembered as a true trailblazer and generous leader, and as one of the most important voices in the history of our co-op and the outdoor community.

Jim showed the world what’s possible when courage is grounded in purpose. When he became the first American to summit Mount Everest on May 1, 1963, alongside Nawang Gombu Sherpa, he expanded our sense of what exploration can be. The achievement brought national recognition and helped carry REI into a new era.

For REI, Jim’s legacy is at our very core. Hired in 1955 by REI Co-op co-founder Lloyd Anderson as our first full-time paid employee, Jim was an early leader and went on to serve as the second CEO from 1971 to 1979. During his tenure, he helped shape a co-op rooted in stewardship, humility, and a belief that time outside should be shared widely and protected fiercely. Under his leadership, membership grew from just under 250,000 to more than 900,000 at the time of his retirement.

REI Co-op Honors the Legacy of Jim Whittaker, Everest Mountaineering Legend and Former CEO | REI Newsroom | REI Co-op