A man who touched so many!
A few of you may have noticed I've been MIA for awhile, for this I truly apologize, I've been fighting with some demons of my own.
I logged in last night and was immediately rocked by the headlines...Upon reading what I thought must certainly be some kind of sick joke or misinformation, or what might be some kind of plot leading into JC's next great story, I was shocked and completely caught off guard to learn that in fact it was a reality and JC had passed away.
I've read all the beautiful posts and condolences, and what stands out the most and is so resounding, is that so many people have been on the receiving end of some kind of generosity from Jim and Deanna. This speaks volumes as to why Jim and Deanna made FAOL there passion and gift to the flyfishing world. Jim and Deanna believe in sharing, their both givers in a world surrounded by so many takers.
Yes, Jim was as one well known poster stated, "He was a cantankerous, ornery, set in his ways, most lovable person you could have ever met!!". He also never lost sight of what his apparent mission was....and that was to share his passion of flyfishing with every single person he met and to leave his own personal mark on the flyfishing world.....I believe he's more than accomplished that!
You can bet he's already rounded up a bunch of new recruits and he's giving fly casting lessons allthewhile complaining about those damn wings on his new costume getting in the way of his back cast....Jim were all laughing with you pal!
Jim we all thank you for being an ordinary down to earth guy that absolutely accomplished extra ordinary things.....In the process you touched so many lives in such a positive way that the ripple effect will be felt for a life time and your passing has created a black hole in the fly fishing community! The memories and new love of flyfishing that you've help create and inspire with so many, have certainly caused them to reflect on their own passion and love of fishing.
By far the greatest memorial to any man is the remembrance and recognition of his life accomplishments by his friends and peers....This has already begun and is certainly a fitting tribute.
Memories are all we are left with now.....and maybe an inspiration to follow in your great footsteps.....to reach out and share our love of flyfishing with everyone we meet.
Deanna certainly there is no loss as great as the one you're suffering right now......Please accept my condolences and may God wrap his arms around you and tuck you in close to his heart to comfort and protect you.
Terry
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