GOVERNMENT CAMP, Ore. -- The search for two climbers missing on Mount Hood was suspended Wednesday as the Clackamas County sheriff said the operation is now a recovery mission.

Avalanche danger and severe weather prevented search and rescue teams from reaching the area where 29-year-old Katie Nolan and 24-year-old Anthony Vietti are believed to be.

"Weather has not been on our side and it just continues to get worse," said Sheriff Craig Roberts. "When the avalanche dangers reduce, we'll evaluate the recovery operation."

Authorities said a third climber, 26-year-old Luke Gullberg, of Des Moines, Wash., died of hypothermia. Gullberg's body was found Saturday afternoon near Reid Glacier at the 9,000-foot level. Based on evidence found on the mountain, Nolan could have been injured and Gullberg left his gloves with Nolan and went to get help, according to authorities.

Ground search teams headed up the mountain Monday morning during a break in the weather, but they were unable to find any sign of the two climbers. As severe weather continued to pound the mountain and avalanche dangers persisted, Nolan's father said he realized rescuers could do no more.

"We are confident they did the best job they could do," David Nolan said. "It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack when you're out there looking for people."

The climbers' families praised the efforts of search and rescue teams at a news conference Wednesday.

"They have risked their lives," David Nolan said. "They have sacrificed time with their family and children. These guys have courage and valor."

Vietti's father, John Vietti, also spoke at the news conference and said the experience hasn't shaken his family's faith.

"We know Katie and Anthony are with the Lord. Having that confidence and knowledge is a wonderful thing," he said.

John Vietti said Anthony was in a pre-medical tract in school and "felt like his life had a higher purpose."

His son loved the outdoors, John Vietti said, and they hiked and camped together many times.

Katie Nolan's father said her passion for the outdoors was sparked by a one-year program in Wisconsin that combined wilderness activities with Bible study.

She ran marathons, competed in cycling races and loved to climb, he said.

"Katie's roommate said (Katie) loved the mountain so much she would like to be buried up there. And, right now, she is," David Nolan said.

The climbers knew each other through Christian organizations and a common interest in the outdoors, the families said.

"Anthony, Kate and Luke were the epitome of living life to the fullest," John Vietti said.

Climber Search Suspended On Mount Hood