by Doug Schnitzpahn
I’m crushed to learn of the death of my friend and longtime Elevation Outdoors Magazinecontributing editor Rob Coppolillo (Vetta Mountain Guides). I first met Rob when he was working for Andy Hampsten running cycling trips in Italy. We rode and laughed and hit it off immediately. Rob was the consummate mountain guide, dedicated to safety and education and bringing his clients to incredible spots and back home. He loved pizza, Italy, his family, the mountains, skiing, and laughter. We will dedicate the May issue of Elevation Outdoors to his memory. My heart goes out to his wife, sons, whole family, and all the people around the globe to whom he brought his joy of life. We had talked about climbing in Chamonix together—maybe the Cosmiques Arete with me trying lead and him backing me up. Now, I feel I have to go and do it and laugh to the mountains in his honor. He will be much missed.
