Authorities Find Body Of Hiker, 76, Reported Missing In Angeles National Forest

March 5, 2012 11:59 PM

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST (CBS) — Authorities have found the body of a 76-year-old hiker who was reported missing after failing to return home from a trek in the Angeles National Forest.

Richard “Dick” DeRusha went to the Switzer Falls campground area near Mount Wilson Friday, according to Lt. Marjory Jacobs.

Deputies from the Crescenta Valley Station began to search for the experienced hiker after he was reported missing by his son shortly after 8:00 a.m. on Monday.

DeRusha’s wife, Bea, told Echo Park Patch her husband had a heart condition and took only enough food with him to last for his hike, which she described as “a bit experimental.”

DeRusha has been a progressive activist in the Echo Park and Silver Lake areas for decades. His Facebook page describes him as a retired shop teacher, nightclub manager, printer and photographer.

Authorities Find Body Of Hiker, 76, Reported Missing In Angeles National Forest

Jessy

Damn I was really hoping they found him alive and well… How sad.
Lola

Sorry to hear Mr. DeRusha passed away—my thoughts go out to his family. To leave this earth at 76 in the beauty of the outdoors instead of being in a hospital hooked up to machines…..I hope that gives his family some peace.
Mike Baca

I remander DeRusha calming me down at a campfire after a climb. Yes i most likely was a little wasted. He was a real neat Guy and did alot for the club.We will all miss him.