Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :
Baltazar Ushca, Ecuador’s Last Iceman, Passes Away at 80
Imagine extracting ice from the slopes of a 6,310-meter volcano, a task that requires skill, determination, and a deep connection to nature. This was the life of Baltazar Ushca, the last mountain ice harvester in Ecuador. Sadly, this legendary figure passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
For over 50 years, Ushca climbed Mount Chimborazo, a dormant volcano, twice a week to extract ice blocks weighing up to 20 kilograms. Despite the arrival of modern refrigeration technology, he continued his trade, becoming a symbol of tradition and resilience in the face of change.
Ushca’s dedication to his craft was unparalleled. He inherited the profession from his father at the young age of 15 and never wavered in his commitment. His journey was not without challenges, as he faced a tragic accident while herding cattle at home, ultimately leading to his untimely passing.
Despite the hardships he endured, Ushca’s impact extended far beyond his role as an iceman. In his later years, he returned to school to complete his primary education and received an honorary doctorate in 2017. He also worked as a tourism promoter, sharing his story with visitors at the Guano museum.
As we bid farewell to this national and international icon, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Ushca’s work will forever be a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who dedicate their lives to tradition.
Ecuador’s last mountain iceman dies at 80
Who was Baltazar Ushca and what was his profession?
Baltazar Ushca was Ecuador’s last mountain ice harvester, who dedicated over 50 years of his life to climbing the country’s highest summit, Mount Chimborazo, to extract ice at the top. This profession was passed down to him by his father when he was just 15 years old, and he continued the tradition until his passing at the age of 80.
What made Baltazar Ushca a legend in Ecuador?
Baltazar Ushca became a legend in Ecuador due to his role as the last practitioner of the age-old profession of ice harvester on Mount Chimborazo. This dormant volcano stands at an impressive 6,310 meters high, making Ushca’s work both physically challenging and culturally significant.
How did Ushca’s community react to his passing?
The municipality of Guano, Ushca’s hometown, expressed deep regret at the news of his death. They referred to him as “Mashi, Taita Baltazar Ushca,” highlighting his importance as the last iceman of Chimborazo, a national and international icon. In the Quechua language, “Taita” means companion and father, showing the respect and admiration his community held for him.
What was the cause of Ushca’s death?
Baltazar Ushca tragically passed away after suffering a bad fall while herding cattle at his home. A bull overpowered him, causing him to fall and sustain serious injuries that ultimately led to his death. This incident was a sad end to the life of a man who had spent decades braving the heights of Chimborazo to harvest ice.
How did Ushca continue his trade despite modern advancements?
Despite the arrival of refrigerators, which signaled the decline of traditional ice harvesting, Baltazar Ushca continued to ply his trade. He remained committed to his craft, climbing Chimborazo twice a week to extract ice blocks weighing up to 20 kilograms with just a pick and shovel. His dedication and resilience inspired several documentaries, showcasing his unique profession to a wider audience.
What were some of Ushca’s accomplishments later in life?
At the age of 73, Ushca returned to the classroom to complete his primary education, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to learning and self-improvement. In 2017, he received an honorary doctorate, recognizing his contributions to Ecuadorian culture and heritage. Towards the end of his life, he worked as a tourism promoter at the Guano museum, sharing his knowledge and experiences with visitors.
What is Ushca’s legacy According to the National Institute of Cultural Heritage?
The National Institute of Cultural Heritage (INPC) highlighted Ushca’s work as a reference for the knowledge of the Ecuadorian people. His role as the last iceman of Chimborazo and his dedication to preserving this ancient tradition have left a lasting impact on the cultural heritage of the region. Ushca’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to appreciate the history and traditions of their ancestors.
Sources: Borneo Bulletin, AFP.