American Man, 69, Dies While Climbing Mount Everest 'After He Began to Feel Unwell' At Camp
International Mountain Guides CEO, Eric Simonson ,said the man's death "was not the result of a climbing accident" or route conditions.
By Abigail Adams Published on May 2, 2023 10:08 PM
Hillary Step, Mount Everest
An American man has died on Mount Everest while attempting to climb the mountain, per multiple reports.
Jonathan Sugarman, 69, was at Camp II on Monday when he began feeling unwell, according to CNN and The Himalayan Times.
The U.S. Embassy in Nepal confirmed Sugarman's death in a statement, CNN and NBC News reported.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends," the Embassy said, per the reports. "The Embassy is in contact with Dr. Sugarman's family and with local authorities."
International Mountain Guides (IMG) CEO Eric Simonson also confirmed the man's death in a statement released Monday, though he did not identify the victim.
"We can confirm that this event was not the result of a climbing accident or route condition that would be of potential impact or safety concern to any other teams on the mountain," Simonson said.
The remainder of the climbing team is "doing as well as can be expected given the circumstances," he added.
Efforts are now underway to remove the victim's body from the mountain, per the reports.
This was reportedly not Sugarman's first attempt at climbing Mount Everest.
In 2022, Jonathan joined another IMG expedition with an aim of reaching camp 3, a goal he successfully accomplished. This encouraged him to return in 2023 to make a summit attempt.
Sugarman is now the fourth person to die on Mount Everest this season, per the report.
Cindy Lourie (Fatsis)
It is hard to grasp the magnitude of Jonathan's death. As every death of a friend is difficult to accept, this one is particularly poignant. What a life Jonathan lived! This is what I will think about when I think of him.. and that he died going for a goal that few of us even imagine, let alone achieve. I say, good for you Jonathan! You lived your life to the fullest!!
Danielle Kalayjian (Robertson)
It was such a privilege to get and sit with Jonathan at dinner, and spend some extra time getting to catch up with him...He was always such a class act and such a kind and humble guy. So many accomplishments, but you never heard it from him. I remember how impressed I was when he got into Harvard and he was so unphased. I probably went a little bit overboard but he took it with such grace. His character never changed and he was always kind to EVERYone...not an easy feat in High School.
Nils Johannessen
I also had a chance to catch up with Jonathan at the reunion. My thoughts echo what Cindy and Danielle have stated here. I shared many classes and music in the orchestra. He was a kind man, an unselfish man and one that shared his talents without question. I recall at our 45th reunion one of our classmates felt unwell and passed out. Jonathan was right there offering aid and summoning the ambulance.
I am sorry for his family. I am sorry he didn't summit Mt Everest but he left us doing what he loved.
The trumpets of Heaven have hailed you home.
Janet Speen (Niemi)
It would be difficult to say enough wonderful things about Jonathan. He was a brilliant child and man, full of goodness and humor. I've always remembered a fourth grade assignment we all had to choose and memorize a short poem. Jonathan chose to memorize, "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere", to everyone's astonishment. Even as 10 year olds, we knew he was amazing. Just a stellar human being, always ready to help.
Arthur Karlin
I agree with others. Jonathan was so steady, smart, talented and kind. Kind of amazing. I also caught up with him at the reunion, and am glad for that. He will be missed.
Betsy McDonald (Dodson)
REST IN PEACE, Jonathan.
You surely made an impression on those who knew you.
Jessie Turbayne
Having worked with the Lakota Sioux on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, I thank Jonathan for his hard work and dedication to advance health care for American Indians. He improved the lives of thousands. And to his attempt to reach "The Roof of the World," I applaud his efforts. That kid that was in some of my classes at NHS did what very, very few would ever think of doing. He not only wanted to help the people of this world but wanted to view the world from it's highest point. Dr. Jonathan Sugarman was quite a man.
Jessie Turbayne
Sheryl Henze
SO sad. I can’t add anything more to what others have already written so eloquently.
I do want to share that I saw him in NYC after our reunion while he was visiting family with family. He was his usual engaging and engaged self and in high spirits. He told me more about his time with Lakota people and his obsession with climbing. He regaled me with tales of his neighbors’ amusement as he trained by dragging huge garbage bags filled with who knows what through the neighborhood. He was happy and excited, and that is how I will remember him.
I feel lucky to have known « Homme du Sucre » , as Richard Burgess used to address him with great affection in French class.
May he rest in peace