Photographer Ross James Wallette Was a Washington Alpinist With Over 400 Summits
Every January, we share a tribute to members of our community who we lost last year. Some were legends, others were pillars of their community, all were climbers. Read the full tribute to Climbers We Lost in 2025 here.
Ross James Wallette, 43, August 18
Ross James Wallette, age 43, of Kennewick, passed away on August 18, 2025, following a climbing accident in the North Cascades of Washington State. He was climbing Fury Finger (8,080 ft.) when a hold broke loose, causing him to fall.
Born on November 5, 1981, in Missoula, and raised across the great outdoors of Montana, Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, Ross enjoyed a childhood that fostered interests that would become his lifelong passion: creativity and the outdoors.
A professional photographer for over 18 years, Ross operated studios across Washington in Ellensburg, Seattle, and the Tri-Cities areas, as well as in Seoul, South Korea. As a skilled hiking guide and adventure photographer, he summited over 410 mountain peaks. He also became the 94th person to complete the Bulger List of the 100 highest mountain peaks in Washington. These passions came together in a documentary he helped create called 100 Summits: Bulgers in a Season (released in 2024).
Through guided hikes, Ross loved helping others experience the beauty of nature. As a talented musician since childhood, he brought joy to others through a wide variety of musical styles and instruments. He was also known for his warmth, kindness, genuine care for every person he met, and a one-of-a-kind goofy personality that brought light and life into every situation.
Above all, Ross was deeply devoted to his family. He cherished his wife, Ranna, and delighted in being a loving father to his daughter, Gianna.
Ross leaves behind a powerful legacy through his countless breathtaking landscape photos and the cherished ritual of family photos at every get-together. He will be deeply missed not only by his family, but by all who hiked with him, made music with him, and shared in his warmth and friendship.
Though his time with us was far too short, Ross believed in his faith’s promise of eternal life. We, his family, grieve deeply, yet we take comfort in knowing that Ross is experiencing true freedom and joy in heaven.
He is survived by his wife Ranna, daughter Gianna, parents Roland and Gina Wallette, grandparents Dale and Wanda Anderson, sister Risa Miller and brother-in-law Mark Miller, brother Rylan Wallette, nephew Judah Miller, niece Joy Miller, and numerous other relatives and friends.
Read the full tribute to Climbers We Lost in 2025 here.
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