Rocky Mountain House RCMP has confirmed that missing Midale man Jeffrey Newton was located deceased.
“On September 21, 2019, passing hikers made the discovery on Abraham Mountain west of Nordegg Alberta in Clearwater County,” says the report.
“Our prayers have been answered. Three volunteer mountaineers discovered our beloved Jeff on the morning of September 21 around 11 a.m.,” said Jeffrey’s niece Megan Newton on her Facebook page.
Jeffrey was 48 years old. He went missing on Sept. 5. Shortly after, his vehicle was located not far from Lake Abraham in Clear Water County, where he was hiking that day.
Professionals and volunteers conducted multiple searches, checking the area with dogs, drones, helicopter and by foot for over two weeks.
“We are very lucky to have found him and are so grateful to so many people who assisted with the daily searches over the past 18 days. We would like to express our extreme gratitude to Jay Mac for absolutely everything she has done for our family. Without her drive and pure dedication, finding Jeff this soon would certainly not have been possible. Given his location, he would have never been seen from the sky, so without our angels on-foot, we may never have found him,” said Megan.
Jeffrey’s family started a Facebook fundraiser page for Rocky Mountain House Volunteer Search and Rescue Society, which raised about $9,000 in 13 days on Facebook only.
They also set a page In Memory of Jeff Newton, where people can share their memories and pictures of the man who was known for his love for mountains.
“Jeff had many passions and he will live on in the memories of all those who knew him. Please take peace in knowing he followed his heart and passed away doing something he truly loved,” said Megan.
Service arrangements will be announced by the family at a later date.
