They were among the first Western students of the Karmapa and grew close to him .
In December 1969 , the Nydahls met Rangjung Rigpe Dorje , the 16th Karmapa .
Nydahls were among the first Western students of the Karmapa and grew close to him .
In December 1969 , the Nydahls met Rangjung Rigpe Dorje , the 16th Karmapa .