Thomas Ayres Rohrer

Thomas "Tom" Ayres Rohrer, a resident of Carlsbad, New Mexico, peacefully entered the presence of the Lord on April 7, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on August 25, 1936, he is survived by his fraternal twin brother, William “Bill” Ayres Rohrer of Wrightstown, New Jersey, and Christine Cummings of Palm Desert, California.

Tom's early life was marked by resilience and adventure. His father, Kenwood Black Rohrer, served in the Pacific during WWII, while his mother, Dorothy Ayres Rohrer, worked full-time. During this time, Tom and Bill attended St. John’s Military Academy until fourth grade. Upon their father's return, they moved to Los Angeles, where they attended public schools. Tom's passion for music led him to play the violin in his school's symphony orchestra.

Tom's adventurous spirit flourished as he explored the outdoors with his brother, leading hikes for their Boy Scout Troop and developing a love for climbing and caving. He pursued higher education at California State College Los Angeles.

A career in surveying beckoned Tom, and he served in the California National Guard's survey section, later becoming chief of Divarty Survey. He went on to work as a Licensed Surveyor for the California Department of Water Resources, specializing in earthquake-induced reservoir dam displacement.

Tom's love for exploration led to remarkable achievements in climbing and caving communities. He was known as "The Mad Bolter" for his daring climbs, including the first descent of The Nose of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. He also completed the first comprehensive survey of Carlsbad Caverns, discovering a previously unknown cavern.

An inventor at heart, Tom created climbing devices and marked them with a division sign, symbolizing his appreciation for mathematics. He was also an accomplished athlete, participating in marathons and senior Olympics.

Tom's dedication to safety and mentorship left a lasting impact on younger climbers. He shared his knowledge generously, ensuring others developed safe habits and skills.

In his later years, Tom found joy in sharing his love of nature with family and friends, guiding tours in national parks. His humor and wit endeared him to all who knew him.

A devoted servant of Christ, Tom served as a roving Elder and shared his faith with others. He cherished moments with family, including baptizing his sister in a cherished stream.

In retirement, Tom found solace in the mountains near Carlsbad, where he embraced nature with his wife, Olive. He passed away surrounded by love and care at Good Life Senior Living Facility.

Though Tom's earthly presence is missed, his legacy of faith, courage, and adventure lives on. A memorial celebration will be held at Glacier National Park in July. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an outdoor charity in honor of Tom's commitment to serving others.

Family and friends are invited to share their remembrances with Bill and Allison Krug. As we bid farewell to Tom, we hold onto the promise of a glorious reunion in Heaven, where his spirit will live on for eternity.