Rob Turan was more than just a climber, he was a force of nature. His infectious enthusiasm and genuine compassion left an indelible mark on everyone he met. A Grandfather, father, rock climber, adventurer, and park ranger, Rob's passion for life radiated through every aspect of his being. Rob dedicated his life to being a National Park Ranger across the country all while being a passionate climber and prioritizing his family.

Arkansas was fortunate to become Rob's adopted home in his later years. The year Rob moved to Arkansas he was quick to reach out to the ARCC just to be a part of the community and help in any way. He was so excited that he and I lived in the same small town in Arkansas. We met and realized quickly that Rob’s experience was going to play very well into the work the ARCC was doing with the Buffalo National River. Rob had seen the towering limestone cliffs along the Buffalo and was shocked there was no climbing! We decided to make Rob the first Arkansas Climbers Coalition Ambassador. He worked very hard to help get climbing in front of the park administration and help convince the rangers that climbers were the kind of people you want in the park! Rob opened up Conversations between the ARCC and the Buffalo River National Park Rangers, helping establish communication channels that one day might allow Climbers to be recognized as a user group within the park.

Unfortunately shortly after, Rob began his battle with cancer, but his spirit remained undimmed. He never lost sight of his love for climbing, finding solace in the movement and camaraderie. One spring day, despite concerns about falling, he insisted on traversing boulders with me at HCR. His words still resonate: "Climbing is not about how strong you are, its about how good you are at moving over rock." He embodied this philosophy, finding joy in the pure act of climbing, not just the physical challenge. Even to the very end, Rob was day dreaming of getting out on rock and getting strong!

Rob's legacy extends far across southern areas including The Obed, The Red River Gorge and The New River Gorge. He was an inspiration, showing us that the true essence of climbing lies in passion, resilience, and community. He taught us to appreciate the joy of movement and forever cherish the spirit of exploration. It was his unique ability to walk both lines of being a respected Park Ranger and a die hard climber that opened areas like the Obed and Sunset Park. Rob had the ability to convince other national parks to continue to allow climbing and even embrace climbers.

Rob Turan may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the vibrant climbing community he nurtured. Let's honor his legacy by fostering inclusivity, protecting the natural world, and sharing the joy of climbing with everyone we meet.

From all climbers everywhere…. Thank you Rob for all your work in this community.

Robert Turan, 1953 - 2024

-David Thompson

ARCC President