An 81-year-old hiker who went missing in Waterton Lakes National Park was discovered dead on Thursday. Golden, B.C., resident Bob Toothill started his hike on July 16 at 11 a.m. on the Alderson Carthew Summit Trailhead, hiking the Great Divide Trail. He was expected to arrive in Coleman, Alta., on July 22. He was reported missing on July 23. Pincher Creek RCMP said in a Friday media release that officers collaborated with Parks Canada to coordinate an extensive search for Toothill that also included Alberta search and rescue teams, Parks Canada drone pilots, Alberta RCMP Air Services, RCMP dog services and police service dogs. On Thursday, Toothill’s body was discovered. Toothill’s daughter Natalie Neustaedter posted a note on social media, saying, “Although we are devastated by this news, we are grateful that he was found and can now be brought home. “Bob loved the outdoors,” Neustaedter said. “In many ways, he lived for it. It is a heartbreaking irony that the place he loved most is where he spent his final moments.” She said her dad died after a sudden slip while hiking the Lineham Ridge area of the Great Divide Trail. Neustaedter thanked the RCMP and search and rescue teams and Parks Canada for their time, effort and sacrifices. Alberta RCMP sent its condolences to Toothill’s family and friends.
