When he was 13, he climbed alone from the Paseo de Cortes to the snow line of Popocatepetl volcano, in Mexico, turning back when he realized he couldn't cross the glaciers without a guide.
He worked on several ships serving Africa and northern South America, until a back injury and recurring malaria rendered him unfit for further service.
He had also raced sailing yachts, was a competent horseman, and enjoyed back-country hunting and Austin-Healey sports cars.
He later worked as editor of the San Benito News, and the Weslaco, Texas, Mid-Valley Town Crier, while simultaneously continuing his education.
In June 2011, he suffered from respiratory arrest and spent five days on life support, prompting him to substantially curtail his activities, and ultimately leading to his retirement in February 2012.