Family's tributes to Marlborough dad in avalanche death (From This Is Wiltshire)

Family's tributes to Marlborough dad in avalanche death

2:17pm Thursday 7th January 2010

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Rupert Rosedale, who was swept away in an avalanche while climbing Ben Nevis last week, died doing what he loved to do, said his father.

Mr Rosedale, 37, who lived in George Lane, Marlborough, with his wife Ulrika and children Ted, three, and Svea, one, was one of two climbers who died in the incident.

He had been Marlborough College’s head of outdoor activities for eight years and was training to become a mountain guide.

His father Dr Barney Rosedale, 72, who introduced his son to the sport, said: “Rupert was a hugely experienced climber, a very good and safe climber.

“He died well equipped, highly experienced and doing what he loved to do, and did supremely well.”

Mr Rosedale’s younger brother, Ben, said the climb on Wednesday, January 6, was part of his mountain guide training. He was due to take an exam in March.

Three climbers in a group of five were caught by the avalanche in which William Wilkinson, 34, who taught geography at a Scottish academy, also died.

Mr Rosedale and his family celebrated Christmas with his parents, who live in Kingsbury Street, and brothers Lawrence, Ben and sister Kath. Dr Rosedale said: “We had a wonderful Christmas together.”

Tributes have poured in for the former St John’s School student who was among the country’s top climbers.

Marlborough mayor Nick Fogg said: “Rupert was a vibrant, caring person. We take some comfort from the words of his father that he died doing what he loved.”

Nick Sampson, Master at Marlborough College, said: “Rupert was, quite simply, a wonderful young man who set the healthiest of examples to young people.He was patient, skilful, committed and utterly professional: above all, he was generous of spirit. He revealed new horizons to many pupils.”

St John’s teacher Steve Tapper said: “Rupert was delightful to teach – he was such a mature, friendly and pleasant lad.”

Bad weather has delayed the return of Mr Rosedale’s body from Scotland but it was confirmed that a memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 28, at 2.30pm in College Chapel.

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