Bert Peter Goris Death Colton, CA Obituary: 64-Year-Old Thru-Hiker Dies After Katahdin Rescue
For those who find meaning in the open trail and the quiet challenge of the mountains, completing a long journey can represent years of determination, endurance and hope. Bert Peter Goris was on such a journey when his life came to a tragic end on Maine’s Mount Katahdin.
Goris, 64, of Colton, California, was a registered Appalachian Trail thru-hiker who was making his way north toward the trail’s northern terminus. Baxter State Park officials said he entered the park on September 13 and stayed overnight at The Birches campground. The following morning, he registered as a solo hiker and indicated plans to reach the summit of Katahdin before descending via the Abol Trail.
Witnesses confirmed that Goris reached the summit. During his descent along the Hunt Trail, he reportedly stopped and asked another hiker for directions to the Abol Trail. He was wearing wet shorts and a long-sleeved shirt as severe weather moved across the mountain.
Around 1:15 p.m. on September 14, a hiker called 911 after finding Goris with an apparent leg injury, difficulty speaking and limited mobility. Other hikers attempted to shelter him before rescuers arrived. A Maine Army National Guard helicopter eventually transported Goris from Katahdin, but he was pronounced dead at Millinocket Airport.
Details about Goris’ family, career and personal life have not been publicly confirmed. His official identification and cause of death remain pending with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
His journey ended on the mountain, but the determination reflected in his final adventure will remain part of his story.
