Jim Whittaker, first American to summit Mount Everest, dies at 97

Jim Whittaker, who became the first American to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 1, 1963, has died at 97; he later served as a manager and CEO at the outdoor co-op REI.

Jim Whittaker, a Seattle climber and longtime figure in the outdoor community, has died at 97. He is known for becoming the first American to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 1, 1963. The climb occurred in severe conditions and drew national attention. Whittaker later worked at REI and went on to lead the co-op as its CEO. Key details: - Mr. Whittaker died at age 97. - He reached Mount Everest's summit on May 1, 1963, and was the first American to do so. - The ascent was made in blizzard‑force winds and about minus‑30‑degree temperatures, and he placed a U.S. flag at the peak. - He was selected from a roster of nearly 20 expert climbers and scientists for the expedition. - He worked at REI as a manager and later served as the company's CEO, and his climb helped increase public interest in mountaineering in the United States. Summary: Whittaker's 1963 ascent made him a nationally recognized figure and contributed to broader American interest in mountaineering while intersecting with his later leadership role at REI. Undetermined at this time.