Melissa Raue with her husband, Dave, after another great night of climbing.

In Memory of Melissa Raue

Trekking the world in search of climbs

In late July, The Rock Club family was heartbroken to learn of the sudden and tragic loss of our dear friend Melissa Raue from a climbing accident outside of Holladay, Utah. In honor of Melissa and her connection to the outdoors and the Gunks, The Rock Club has partnered with the Gunks Climber’s Coalition to take donations in her memory.

Melissa Raue at The Rock Club competing with her team in the Adult Climbing League

At TRC competing with her team in the Adult Climbing League

Melissa was the wife of The Rock Club’s owner, Dave, and the mother of two sons, Matt and Eric. She was passionate about the great outdoors and loved hiking, skiing and, in particular, climbing. A member of the Mohonk Preserve and the GCC, she was an enthusiastic advocate of the sport. Climbing regularly for over ten years, both indoors and outside throughout the country, she was known in our community for her eagerness to share her love of climbing by bringing new people to the area with meet-up groups and all-women’s climbing groups. She would climb with anyone, anytime, and always took the time to make people feel comfortable and confident on the wall.

Melissa and Dave after another great night of climbing

She was engaged politically and never ceased to find the irony, injustices, and humor in that arena. She will be remembered for her intelligence and kindness, for her positive outlook on life and sense of humor, her love of climbing and travel, and for her dedication to her family and friends.

Please click on this link to make a donation to help preserve the beauty of the Shawangunk Ridge in her memory through the advocacy of the Gunks Climber’s Coalition. Thank you for your honor and support of the area she so cherished.