LUST FOR GOLD

Retired missile scientist Robert Kesselring’s search for treasure began when his aunt gave him Barry Storm’s Thunder Gods Gold. It was a book that comforted him throughout his life, would help him weather his time in Vietnam, and would become a foundation for his research.

After serving in Vietnam, Kesselring graduated from SMU with a master’s degree in electrical engineering and a math minor. He worked for Honeywell, Digital Equipment Company, Raytheon and within NASA’s Redstone Arsenal.

Throughout his career and into retirement, Kesselring maintained his interest in the Superstition Mountains and spent years doing research on the area, which culminated in a new discovery. Seven years later, he assembled a team in an attempt to prove it.

Bill Blackwell grew up in the desert of Palm Springs. He graduated from the University of Colorado and Western State University, College of Law. Blackwell spent the majority of his legal career practicing entertainment law in Los Angeles and moved to Nevada near Lake Tahoe.

Blackwell learned about the Superstition Mountains and the Legend of the Lost Dutchman from his father, who used to take him treasure hunting there when he was a kid. When he came across an article Kesselring published online about his discovery, calling for a pro-bono lawyer, he contacted him immediately and jumped onboard.

James Sybesma was born and raised in Michigan but later moved to Lake Tahoe where he started his career as a blackjack dealer at a local casino. When Bill Blackwell moved to Lake Tahoe, he settled right next to Sybesma. As neighbors, they shared their love of adventure and treasure hunting. Upon retirement, Sybesma joined forces with Blackwell in search of gold, and when Blackwell offered him the opportunity to join Kesselring’s team, Sybesma didn’t hesitate.

Jason Kesselring was 39 two years prior to filming, when he received his GED – a proud moment, especially given that his mother was a schoolteacher and his father a missile scientist. Jason had been estranged from his father, Robert Kesselring, for 32 years, and is eager to make up for lost time. When Kesselring offered to introduce Jason to his research and pass down his legacy, Jason eagerly accepted. He saw the expedition as an opportunity to reconnect with his father, and was looking forward to supporting him in whatever way he could.

David Smith comes from a long line of “rock-hounds” and spent years combing the desert surrounding Palm Springs for geological treasures with his family. He became friends with Bill Blackwell during high school, and the two have since kept in touch. Smith’s had a varied career including work as a veterinary assistant, rancher, and electrical contractor, and spent a number of years as a gold miner. Smith and his dog Gordy spend most of their time outdoors, and upon joining Kesselring’s team, were eager to see Superstition Mountain.

Part Rottweiler, part Labrador, Gordy was rescued by David Smith from mistreatment in an environment where he was kept outside – rain or shine.  Smith would often drive by Gordy’s home, witnessing firsthand his neglect and abuse.  He eventually befriended Gordy (and his owners) and convinced them to turn Gordy over to him to serve as Gordy’s trusted and valued guardian.  Gordy is eight years old and has spent the last six years as David’s constant companion.