From Kiene's Fly shop BB:

<<I received this sad message from Mel's wife, Fanny this morning. As a member of the Golden West Women Flyfishers I was fortunate to meet Mel early in my fishing career. The GWWF holds its meetings in Fanny and Mel's home and when Mel was not off fishing some where only the rest of us could dream of going to, he was very generous in sharing his expertise of flyfishing with us. I know Mel didn't expect much of an after life but if he was wrong and there is a river there. I wish him Fish On.

Dear Friends:

It is with great sadness that I write to let you know that Mel passed away this morning at 3:30AM on his final grand adventure.

Although he had been very ill for a while, it is still very painful to face the fact. At least, his illness did not cause him pain and he went very peacefully and his spirit will be with us for a long time.

I look forward to connecting with you in the weeks to come.

With love,

Fanny >>