It is with great sadness that I pass on the news of the death of Henri Bouilliet, our friend and guide in Chamonix this past spring. Ed received an e-mail sent by Marie (Henri’s fiancee). On July 8th, 2009 Henri fell and died on the Pointe Dufour in Switzerland. From the French news article that Ed translated, Henri was guiding clients at the time. One client was not feeling well and a helicopter was called in to evacuate that client. Somehow after/as the helicopter was leaving the anchor block came loose and Henri fell. I continue to tell myself that he died doing what he loved.
Marie and Henri had recently announced they were to be married in November. My heart and prayers go out to Marie and Henri’s family. I feel honored to have known him. From the few days Ed and I spent in France, a special bond and friendship was formed with both Henri and Marie. I learned so much just from watching his technique and movement in the mountains. He will never be forgotten.
Edward and Henri
Henri, Dan (on ground), Marie, Mark, Matt, Edward
We know how much you thought of both Henri and Marie. I’ve put Marie and all of Henri’s family and friends on the prayer chain at church.
many many many thanks for your text, Amy and Ed
I hadn’t read it until tonight
I don’t know what to say, except to insist you to take care of you two, to take care of all your family and friends, to take care not to loose any micro minute of life, and to benefit of each moment of happyness you can get
life is cruel sometimes, but beautiful, as well as the mountains are
I don’t know where Henri is, but he offered to me the best moments of my life
lots of love
Marie