A retired firefighter from Rogers Park, originally hailing from Romania, is proving that age is just a number. Now in his mid-70s, Viorel “Wally” Stirbu has conquered over a dozen mountains, and it appears he’s not done yet.
In Des Plaines, Stirbu was celebrated for achieving a remarkable milestone that many can only dream of reaching.
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“If you set your mind to it, train hard, and have a dream, you can achieve anything,” Stirbu shared.
At 75, Stirbu, a former firefighter who dedicated 27 years to the Chicago Fire Department, was recognized at the Romanian Heritage Center. He joins an elite group of climbers who have completed the Seven Summits challenge, an accomplishment that involves scaling the tallest peak on each of the seven continents.
“It was emotional,” Stirbu reflected. “You think, ‘Is this it? Have I really done it?'”
After a 14-year journey, Stirbu completed this formidable challenge last week by reaching the summit of Mount Everest, where he proudly displayed the CFD flag at the pinnacle of the world.
“To climb Everest at 75 years, it’s an example and a testament of courage,” said Consul General of Romania in Chicago Lucian-Ilie Stnic.
For Stirbu, that climb was bittersweet after surviving an avalanche on Mount Everest in 2015 that killed his friend, Google executive Dan Fredinburg.
“I took his picture to the summit, and I say, ‘Hey Dan, you climb with me, man, wherever you are in heaven,’” Stirbu said.
For Stirbu, the journey continues. He says there are more mountains to climb.
“But I just want to take my time, recoup, and see what my guide says,” Stirbu said.
In his retirement, Stirbu also competes in triathlons. He hopes his accomplishments inspire people of all ages to challenge themselves.
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