I live in Olympia and have known Rob for about 12 years, as I’m a regular at Alpine Experience. Rob was a really nice guy who always struck me as one who would be prepared and use his head. In fact, I’ve had kit and gear discussions with him numerous times. We don’t know that he was “traveling lite” at this time. When his two companions left him to get help he was in a bivy, I don't know if he had a PLB or even had time to deploy it. That mountain has claimed some very smart and experienced people in the past. At least he died doing what he loved.