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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | I am posting for my friend Shane Mason, who wanted to send a thanks out to the people who helped on Green Bay yesterday.
Late yesterday afternoon, Popular guide and Walleye tournament angler Rick Meverdan, passed away unexpectedly while releasing his largest Musky to date, a 50”er. Luckily, Jeremy Vanert and Shane Mason were nearby, and were able to get to Rick quickly. Shane wanted to thank Jeremy for his CPR efforts, and Dannyboy(Ricks partner for the day) for driving the boat to meet the ambulance.
Rick was a helpful friend to anyone that knew him, and will be sorely missed by all of us. I just regret not accepting the short notice invite to fish the best of the best tourney with him last weekend, though am sure his partner(Jan Regal) is equally happy that he got to spend those hours with him.
Foremost, condolences go out to Ricks family at this time. You are in all of our prayers.
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Posts: 1086
| Wow. My condolences to all of Rick's family and friends.
I've heard many stories throughout the years of people passing away while out golfing and doing things they love doing. To pass while muskie fishing and releasing a fish of that caliber, is fine way to go if your time is up. Hopefully he passed quickly, quietly and with peace and ease. |
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Posts: 1996
Location: Pelican Lake/Three Lakes Chain | I am speechless.
I haven't known Rick for long, but was quickly impressed at his easy going manner. My prayers go out to his family and friends. |
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| i tried so hard to get him in the boat. im just in shock.i couldnt pull him up until jeremy helped me and shane went in the water to help.i held his arm and head up the best i could.
thanks shane, roger,joe and jeremy for helping.and all others who called 911 and tried to assist.
please keep his family , wife and kids in your thoughts today......
dannyboy |
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Posts: 1906
Location: Oconto Falls, WI | I got the call from Shane last night, and couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I haven’t known Rick all that long either, but he was easy to make friends with. I got to know Rick a little bit through Titletown Muskies Inc. and through being friends with Shane Mason. I am honored to get to try out some of the rods that Rick owned or built.
Thanks to Shane, Jeremy, Danny, and others who were there yesterday and tried your best to help Rick out. I couldn’t imagine doing what you guys did.
My family and I will have Rick’s family in our prayers.
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Location: Green Bay, WI | I am in shock as well. I spoke with him at the boat launch at 7AM, and we saw each other throughout the day, until we left just before 3PM. I only knew him for about 6 months since joining the Titletown club, but he was without a doubt a very outgoing and helpful person. He made me feel very welcome to the club.
Thanks for everything you guys did to try to save him. As someone who has been through this before (my father died in similar fashion several years ago, but there was no one there to help him), you need to know that at the end of the day, your actions will provide a tremendous relief to his family. As a family member of someone that has died in such a way, all you can do is to wonder is "what if" he had help? But by your actions, rest assured that Rick's family will have the comfort of knowing that he wasn't alone--and that he received as much help as was possible, given the situation.
Even though the outcome was tragic, you guys need to take comfort in the fact that you acted in the manner you did. Here's to you all...
And God Bless Rick and his family.
Tom Betka |
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Posts: 419
Location: Appleton, WI | Wow I was very shocked and stunned when I heard also from Shane. There's very little a guy can say when things happen like this. It's good that Rick had such good guys around him at the time. Rick's in my prayers and will be in my thoughts.
catch ya later,
Krappie |
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| So sorry to hear about Rick, but at least his passing was spent doing what he loves. My prayers go out to his entire family and friends. |
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Posts: 16632
Location: The desert | Sorry to hear about this tragedy. How did it happen? My thoughts and prayers are for Rick's family. |
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Posts: 113
Location: Green Bay, WI | What more can I say about Rick. You can see by these posts what kind of guy Rick was. My thanks go to all who helped also.
Rick and his family will be in our prayers
Jay |
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Posts: 5874
| Wow, I am saddened by this terrible news. Rick was a great guy, always willing to talk. I remember him best from sitting in the StowMaster trailer at the PWT, working on a rod, sanding, filing, fitting, until it was perfect, talking about the day's fishing, or Green Bay muskies. He will be missed.
Rick and his family will be our thoughts.
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Posts: 32934
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | Rick was a friend and a great representative for this sport. I can't believe I am reading this, it just doesn't seem possible. he will be sorely missed.
My personal condolences to his friends and family. One thing, he was doing what he truly loved when he passed away; something the rest of us can only hope for.
This just doesn't seem right. He was soooo easy going, one just expects to see him several times a year and shoot the breeze.
I'll miss him. |
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Posts: 40
| I was just informed of Rick’s passing and must say I’m in complete shock! My fishing partner and I had the pleasure of fishing with Jon Regal and Rick at the Best of the Best tournament. We were also we lucky to see them boat a couple of nice fish. My deepest condolences to Rick’s family and to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Rick Lax |
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Posts: 1245
Location: Madtown, WI | wow.....
I will say a prayer for his family and friends....
Cory
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| Dont really feel like talking right now, but I feel I have to say something.
Rick was not just one of my best friends, he was more than that. He was family.
He was one of the most easy going guys you will ever meet. Always willing to help a guy out and never expected anything in return. One of the most generous and honorable men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Those of you who have ever had the pleasure of sharing a boat/knowing him I know would echo my thoughts.
His wife Terese, son Cory, and daughter Margo also want to thank you for all the kind words, support, and prayers right now.
I would also like to thank Dannyboy, Jeremy Vanert, Joe Junion, and Roger Watters and all the others who were there with him helping. He was close friends with all us, and it has hit us all pretty hard. Rick died doing what he loved surroundded by good friends. With a big fish in the net. We should all be that lucky.
Funeral details havent been finalized as of yet but I will have someone post the specifics. As of right now the wake will be this Thursday at 3pm with the funeral to follow.
And an extra special thanks to Jeremy and Danny, what hasnt been said yet was that they did save a life yesterday, unfortunatly it wasnt Ricks, but mine. |
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| im trying to calm down and get through the day.
i know many want to know what happened.
basically i spent the day fishing with rick and getting to know him. he was a great person. he was trying his hardest to show me how to troll. where to troll proper set up etc... because i have little or no experience living where i do and trolling. most all lakes in my area it is not open for trolling.
at 2:00 ish we got a call that muskies were in a certain area. we pulled up, moved and set up.
we caught one right away. we then lost a few and watched other boats catching them. we both agreed our time would come. then while i was driving the board went down hard and rick grabbed the rod. we both knew it was a dandy and after a few runs i nettted it and asked for tools. he said he wanted to release it and since it was his boat, i agreed.
he then grabbed pliers and started unhooking. i grabbed the camera. his was dead so i grabbed mine. he was excited and so was i. he then asked for measuring stick and as i reached under his seat and then looked up, he just did a slump and slid slid into net.
im struggling now to finish writing everythings a blurr.
but, i grabbed net and he rolled up as i grabbed his shoulder and pulled hos arm and shirt. i got his head up and started calling for help. i couldnt pull him in.
i started calling louder and shane and jeremy came in. shane jumped in to assist and we couldnt lift him. jeremy came by me and we somehow got his belt and i got both hands under his arm and pulled. we got him in . jeremy started cpr and we took off for the launch.
roger,joe and others had called 911 and i hauled it to the launch.
i knew he was gone for a while.
i am so sorry. im hurting inside.
i dont know what else to say.
but im happy and thankful i got to fish with him.
please cherish your life , family, friends and everything you do.......
danny |
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Posts: 13688
Location: minocqua, wi. | danny ... nothing to say but i'm sure his family was glad you were there with him ... such a sad story ... |
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Posts: 188
Location: Madison, WI | "This just doesn't seem right" sums it up for me. I didn't know Rick real well but in the dozen or so times I've talked to him I'd developed a very high regard for him. A true gentleman - he will be missed.
Craig Eversoll |
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Posts: 91
Location: Wausau | I was lucky to meet Rick this past August at the Alliance Tourney in Eagle River. They say first impresions mean everything, mine of Rick's was a great one. As other have said he was a nice guy, easy to talk with and had some great stories. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and close friends, the first and last cast on Sunday will be for him.
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| I am numb. I worked with Rick in the Information Services Department at the Shopko general office. I also fished with him on the Fox and at his stomping grounds at High Falls. We at Shopko are shocked and saddened. Most everyone here at work knew Rick. He had a way of remembering everyones name and would make sure to greet each person by name. I always thought that he should have been a salesman instead of messing around on computers. I will miss Rick terribly. We constantly talked musky during our free moments at work. Maybe a little more than we should have. I joined Titletown Musky Inc this past year because of him. I will miss not seeing him at work. I will miss riding with him to the Titletown meetings. I will miss his excitment when we talked musky. I will miss the phone calls to take a smoke break. I will miss not being able to hear him tell me the story.
My condolences to Therese, Margo, and Corey. He spoke often of you. |
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Posts: 2068
Location: Appleton,WI | I also saw rick that day as we passed on the river a few times.I didnt know him that well but rick was a stand up guy!Shane had called me as I was on my way home when this happened!I hope all is well for family and friends!Its good to know that people on the river will go out on a limb to help someone in need!!Thanks to roger,joe shane and jermy that help out! |
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Posts: 686
Location: Tomahawk, Wisconsin | OMG, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you, Dave |
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Posts: 9
Location: Green Bay | Rick was not just a good fisherman but a good person. One who always stopped to talk and help others out. I can't believe i'm not going to see him in his tracker anymore. I feel blessed to have fished with him a few times and remember all of his tips.
To the guys that were out with him: god bless each of you. You all did what you could and probably more than you thought you could. I hope i have friends like that when i'm in need.
Prayers and thoughts go to his family and everyone who knew Rick-he will be missed.
Kevin Gille |
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Posts: 332
Location: Neenah, WI | I am in shock. I became friends with Rick a short time ago, We met at the C+R Musky club in Dale, WI. where we were both members, In the last couple months Rick and I were trying to hook up for a day of fishing but there was always something that conflicted. I will never have the opportunity to this and it saddens me deeply. Rick was truly a gentlemen and always was willing to shoot the breeze about anything. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and everybody that knew Rick>
I hope and pray that there is lake up in heaven that is full of lunker Muskies that Rick can cast all day on. I will see on the water again my friend.
SAINT 1 |
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Posts: 2112
Location: The Sportsman, home, or out on the water | My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Rick was always good to me.
Now, Rick, if there is internet service up in heaven, please do not educate all of the muskies up there before we get there. Save some for us.
When I go, I hope it is doing something I love. |
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Posts: 1
| Greetings everyone, my name is Corey... I am Rick's son. I appreciate everything you all have done for him. I have not realized how many people he had reached out and touched in this sport. I appreciate and thank Shane, Dan, Jeremy, Joe, and Roger and everyone for trying to save his life. I also would like to thank all of you for being part of his life and bringing much joy.
Sincerely,
Corey Meverden
*Rick can now rest easy knowing everyday he'll be out fishing for the big musky!
Edited by Ricksboy 10/22/2007 6:40 PM
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Posts: 80
Location: Clintonville, Wi | My thoughts and prayers go out to Rick's family, I can't imagine what they are going thru right now.
I've bumped into Rick alot these last few month's. It's been a pleasure to meet such a wonderful person. He was always so laid back. It's a shame the way it had to end. I'm still in total shock over the whole thing.
I wish there was something else I could do. Thanks to all those who helped. It's good to know there is people out there who will help a friend in need.
danny, im sorry we had to meet on such bad terms. hopefully next time it will be a better situation. Hang in there bud.
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| I think this is one of the best ways to go but is never easy. I would like to think he was so involved in getting people educated in fishing and especially fishing the bay. Well he gave it his all to this fishery, now I would think they should make the tournament a memorial one for him next year. |
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Posts: 170
| My God...I hardly know anyone on this board (personally), nor the gentleman who passed away or the guys who obviously did whatever was possible in such a time of pain and confusion. My hats off to everyone involved and prayers to each and everyone...especially to Rick and his family.
My condolences!!!!
Edited by JimLang 10/22/2007 8:30 PM
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Posts: 578
Location: Sheboygan Falls, WI | I heard about this unfortunate and sad news today while musky fishing. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rick, his family and all the gentlemen that helped.
May the Good Lord watch over and care for each and every one of them during these difficult times.
Chuck
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Posts: 941
Location: Freedom, WI | Just got back from taking Ricks rig home and first chance I've gotten to read this post. What everybody says about him is true, the last few years we have gotten to be great friends. This last year has been so much fun for him working with the guys from Stowmaster and Lamiglass (when Lamiglass comes out with the composite he was prototyping you can thank Rick), him and Shane prototyping some baits for me and he even came up with the name for it.
Everybody did their part plus out there. Dan keeping Rick above water, Shane diving in (58 degree water), Jeremy helping lift him and doing CPR ( try doing that on the rear deck of a boat taking off and going across the lake at 50 mph), Joe almost jumped in but we were not close enough but he did other stuff instead. We were all ment to be there at that time.
He will be missed |
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Posts: 20257
Location: oswego, il | I am sorry to hear about this loss. Rick was friends with some real quality people, some of them were there to help in his time of need. You are all heros. I know several of the people involved and I can say Rick had some great friends. |
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Posts: 311
| Heres a poem that seems fitting, A golden heart stopped beating
Hard working hands laid to rest
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the BEST.............
My condolences to the Family.................... |
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Posts: 91
| My Thoughts and Prayers. |
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Posts: 507
| All of us at OutdoorsFIRST send our condolences to Rick's friends and family. Rick will be missed. |
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Posts: 512
Location: Appleton | My Thoughts and Prayers are with the Family and Friends involved in this unfortunate tragedy. |
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Posts: 11
Location: Albert Lea, MN | When I first met Rick, he was working in the Lamiglass booth next to me in Madison. I couldn’t help overhearing the amount of knowledge of the products and the patience he gave to everyone that asked his opinion. I though he was sent directly from the factory. I found out later he wasn’t from Lami but was just there helping out. I had to get to know this guy, and I am really glad I did. It was fortunate for me that our paths crossed many more times and I was able to call him a friend. He will be missed by myself and everyone that knew or would have known him.
My deepest sympathy to his family.
Matt Larson
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Posts: 1185
Location: Wishin I Was Fishin' | Roger said we were meant to be there.
When we put in early that morning we agreed that if we put 2 in the boat we would pack it up and call it a day. Roger has a broken rib from falling in the boat during the Best of the Best Tourney and I had sorrows of sinking my boat Saturday. Well we didn't catch anything so we were still out there when Rick collapsed. It is a mental burden but I do feel fortunate to have been part of Ricks last day on the water. Spending my last hours out on the water with my fishin friends would be one of the better ways to go.
If Tittletown doesn't make their tourney a memorial to Rick, C & R Musky Club will do something.
Thoughts and prayers
Joe |
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Posts: 8
| There is a total irony in the fact that I just registered on the MuskieFIRST website. Rick, I'm sure is getting a kick out of this. His passion for this sport was BEYOND a passion most people have for anything. The fact this his wife who always gave him "digs" for fishing for something he couldn't bring me home to eat, is here posting would put a big smile on his face. There is so much I'd like to say, but just can't find the words right now. When Roger came over last night and dropped off the boat and the truck, I learned about this board. There was just so much I didn't know about his circle of friends. I went to the dinner up at the Yacht Club before the last tournament and finally had a chance to meet some of you that I had not met before. I had such a good time and was so looking forward to getting to know all of you better. Your outpouring of love and respect for Rick is just amazing. The guys that were out with Rick on Sunday - I just don't know what to say. Thank you is just too insignificant, but I can't come up with any better words right now. It's just so hard. I can't imagine what it was like out there while you, his good friends, were trying to save his life. I will be forever grateful for the friendship you all shared with my husband. To everyone who's thoughts and prayers are going out to us. Our thoughts and prayers are going right back out to you. You share in our loss. Thank you everyone for your kind words and support. I cannot tell you how much it helps. You are all very good people and Rick was beyond lucky to have such good friends.
Again, thank you.....
Terese, Margo and Corey
Edited by Terese 10/23/2007 7:03 AM
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Location: WI | This is the first time I have been able to sit down and read all the comments and emails from all of you, and I just wanted to give a big thanks! There are alot of people really hurting right now. All the phone calls, posts and emails are helping us keep it together, its not everyday your best friend dies in your arms. Your support has been greatly appreciated!
As has been said by Joe and Roger, we were meant to be there. I really didnt expect Joe after sinking his boat, Roger who was really hurting with his ribs, and I know bouncing around in a boat on the Bay had to be torture. I dislocated my shoulder on Friday, (Rick was the one who popped it back in for me). The first thing I had to do Sunday morning when Danny picked me up was throw up a couple of times because I was still in so much pain. I was in no shape to be anywhere near the water, especially out there. But I knew how much Danny wanted to go, I havent seen someone so excited, he was like a kid on Christmas morning.
And it was such a good day, Jeremy and I had a couple of mid 40's for the day already, lost a couple of fish, and Rick and Danny had been getting into some fish as well, but we were really out there mainly to help Joe and Roger get a pattern going.
Jeremy and I were just getting back into the area after taking a run over to a different area where we did lose a couple of nice fish, we debated staying in that area but decided we will head back over to our friends and finish out our day. As we got close enough to see everyone we noticed Rick and Danny were working a big fish into the net. Everything after that is just a blur and to be honest I dont remember much just bits and pieces. I dont remember jumping in, but somehow God gave me enough strength grab Rick and somehow be able to use an arm I couldnt lift to hang onto the side of the boat with just my fingertips. But I couldnt let go. Danny and I were trying to get Rick back into the boat but Rick is a big dude. I have never felt so helpless in my life. The water may have been 58 on top but go down a foot and it was alot colder and I was in serious trouble, but I didnt want them to worry about me so I didnt say anything. Someone told me yesterday that they heard me say "I am not going to make it, just get him in the boat." I know Jeremy heard it because he jumped from his boat into Ricks and with his help, Danny and Jeremy were somehow able to lift him in. Jeremy did save a life that day. And then doing CPR on the back deck of a boat doing over 50 mph. Incredible!
One thing I remember vividly though, and at the time I chalked it up to hypothermia hallucinations, was this fish. The fish was unhooked, more or less half out of the net the net was pretty much vertical anyway so a tailkick and she would have been gone. And I remember being really uncomfortable having my face 10 inches from its head. But this fish stayed underneath Rick, helping us hold him up, as calm as a Hindu cow. It waited till Rick was on his way and I was safe out of the water before it swam away. So I also have to also thank the fish for its part.
Rick Lax upon hearing about this has generously offered to make a replica for us of Ricks fish. You will never know how much that will mean to us. Thank you!
I hope out of this tragedy that some good will come of this, that Ricks death is a wake up call to everyone. We are all guys who spend ALOT of time on the water several thousand hours a year on the water collectively. Stuff like this happens so quickly, and Green Bay is not the place to have this happen. Frankly I am surprised with the volume of people fishing there pretty much till ice up. that it hadnt happened sooner. I grew up out there, and I have seen how quickly the water can turn ugly. We had alot of rain recently and alot of wind, there has been alot of current of late. PLEASE wear your life jackets at all times in the boat when you are out there. Do it for Rick.
Thank you all again for keeping Ricks family and friends in your prayers it means more than you know.
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| terese,
thanks and hang in there.it was a pleasure meeting you and corey under such horrible circumstances.
my wife ,3 daughters and i will be there thursday, please post the details here when you can.
joe, you can count on the Muske Nutz to step up to the plate as well here. im working on this and will let everyone know.
jeremy, we have to hook up on much better terms soon. shane has my number, call anytime my friend and thanks so much for helping man.
shane, thanks too. what you did and everone did was awesome. we will fish again soon and find another giant muskie for rick.
and roger and joe as well.
can someone help me post a picture of the muskie rick helped me catch? his gift to me. what a pleasure meeting him and his giving qualities.......
dannyboy
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| Although I did not know this person,after reading this Story
Dany,Shane,Jeremy
You guys are my hero's
Your efforts and kindness in acting upon this tragedy in the manner you all did demonstrates what people should be
May God shine on you all
May God shine on Rick's family
Beyond any great big fish,human kindness is the most touchfull act one could accomplish
You 3 demonstrated this
Marc Thorpe |
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Posts: 2091
Location: Stevens Point, WI | I was with MuskieE on the river and bay and saw him a few times as well on Sunday. Being a Paramedic I wish I would have been closer and known about it to assist. My heartfelt condolences to Terese, Margo and Corey and the rest of his family. |
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Posts: 910
Location: Hastings, mn, 55033 | My thoughts and condolences are with Rick's family and friends. |
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Posts: 114
Location: New London, Wisconsin | My family will keep Rick's family and friends in our thoughts and prayers... |
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Posts: 8
| Hi all - we are set with arrangements - please can you all pass these onto everyone who might need them. I just have no idea where to start so this seemed like a good place. Services will be held on Thursday, October 25 at St Paul's Catholic Church at 410 E. Wallace St, Combined Locks. We can all say our goodbyes between 3:00 and 7:00 and there will be a Mass at 7:00. After the Mass we will have snacks and non alcoholic (sorry all) beverages in the church basement. That's all I have for now...again, thank you to all.
Terese |
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Posts: 327
| I didn't know Rick , but from what I read he was someone everyone would have liked to get to know . My prayers go out to his family !! My prayers also go out to thiose who were there to help out , you guys are HERO'S for sure !! I'm sure that none of that was easy for any of you , but you did what any friend would do . I hope that someone will be there to help if I ever need it . And I also hope that I have the courage and spirit you guys did if ANYBODY ever needs my help !! God bless you all , and god bless Rick and his family !! |
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| I just want to wish Rick's family and friends my condolences. Dannyboy, what you and your friends did, was something that his family will never forget. You must remember that it was his time and he passed doing what he loved. You guys are heroes in my book, and his family knows what true friends Rick had. I sincerely hope all of you can get through this tragic event, and realize you did everything you could. My family's thoughts and prayers are with Ricks family and also all of you. Clint |
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| Krappie has offered to throw together a slide show for us, if anyone has any pictures of Rick please email them to [email protected] |
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Posts: 8840
| My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. |
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Posts: 174
Location: Wis. Rapids, WI | Fisherman's Prayer:
God, grant that I may live to fish
For another shining day,
But when my final cast is made
I then most humbly pray,
When nestled in your landing net.
As I lay peacefully asleep,
You'll smile at me and judge
That I'm " Good Enough to keep."
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all his friends too.
Todd Forcier
Edited by TForcier 10/23/2007 4:30 PM
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Posts: 419
Location: Appleton, WI | You can also send any pictures to this email address in case my road runner mailbox is full:
[email protected]
thanks,
Krappie
Edited by Krappie 10/23/2007 4:42 PM
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Posts: 101
| Wow, I just finally had a chance to sit down and read this post. I saw it yesterday, but had to leave the computer. I wish I would have sat down a little sooner. I thought I recongized the name, but couldn't place it. Here I actually talked to Rick alot online here, and even met him once to purchase some things that he was selling. I always wanted to hook up fishing with him, and thought for sure that was going to happen. 
For anyone that didn't know Rick, he was an awesome individual, who treated me like family the one and only time I met him in person. I think I sat at his house for 3 hours talking muskies, lures, and rods.
The musky community has lost a great sportsman, advocate for the sport, and great fisherman.
My thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to all his family and close friends.
~Matt |
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| First I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you guys who tried to save Rick's life out on the Bay. But I guess it just wasn't meant to be. The old say "only the good die young" sure as heck applies to Rick.
I've known Rick and his family for well ever 20 years. We met at the old HMK sportshop in Combined Locks quite by chance. I was in the tackle manufacturing business at the time and Rick was at HMK getting rods to repair from the owner, Ken Hamilton. Rick introduced himself to me and the rest is history.
We immediately struck a friendship, mainly because we were both into the fishing industry and we loved to fish and we were alot alike in many ways other than fishing. I guess I'm the one that got Rick hooked on fishing Highfalls and Caldron Falls. I had a summer place up there and after a few years talked Rick into buying a place a few hundred feet from mine. I was guiding on a part time basis up there for a few years and was giving it up. Rick and I had talked alot about guiding for a couple of years previously and I tried to incourage him to get into it. I finally figured out that he was afraid that he was going to "step on my toes" so to speak. He finally got into it and was doing a great job, not only as a fisherman, but as an educater.
Rick was the type of guy that would give you the shirt off his back. He was always willing to help anybody out. He was THE ultimate teacher and had more patience than Jobe.
He, Terese and the kids spent many hours up north around the campfire with us. Shared a few beers and lots of BS.
Back in around 1995 he was up north one weekend and my son was punting the football. He was a 2nd team all state punter and was kicking the ball a country mile. BUT, Rick and I just knew we could kick it further than my son. Yep...you guessed it. Rick and I spent the next hour kicking the ball down the road. I gave up before Rick did, because I could barely walk on my sore ankle. Rick kicked for another 15 minutes or so and all but collapsed. I called him the next night at home and he said he could hardly walk. I told him that my ankle didn't bother me at all. Truth be told, I had ice on my ankle as I spoke to him on the phone.
I'm sure going to miss ya Rick. We still didn't get to Winnebago ice fishing together. We always planned on it but....
Looks like I'll be joining you in a year or so buddy. Save a few big ones for me, will ya. We can make a few jigs together and give them a try.
Your Old Buddy,
Gary Luedeke |
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| I write this message with great sorrow. Upon receiving a phone call from Rick's son Corey, my life was forever changed. You see, Rick was a very, very close friend of mine. We first met when I worked in ShopKo's legal department. I had heard there was a guy in IS that also loved muskie fishing. I found out who he was and introduced myself. Let's face it, if you liked fishing and are on the eternal quest for big muskie, you were in! He offered to take me out and the friendship took off and grew over many years.
He was an amazing person. Over the years, we enjoyed many hours out on the water. He took me to lakes I never knew even existed. He always shared his knowledge and never held back on secrets he acquired over the years . He was more then a fisherman but rather an educator. I never went out with him without learning something new. Unfortunately, I had planned to learn a lot more from him but that can no longer be. I guess that secret sucker harness will go with him. I guess I should have paid more attention but you take life and time for granted.
I will forever cherish the ice fishing outtings to get through the winter, walleyes on the Wolf in anticipation of the muskie opener, the Spring Classic tourney, trips to Canada, and the many outtings in between. How do you say good bye to a guy that filled every season of the year with you?
Fortunately, he was more then a fishing buddy, but a dear friend. The guy made me laugh with his #*#* ass grin and a slight head shake in response to my childish sarcasm. He was always there for me to offer advice in life. From my job change, to raising my boys, to our discussion last week of a boat I wanted to buy...always there.
I was there for the fish that sent hooks through his hand, for a hilarious trip to the ER and most importantly, for his son's first legal muskie. What a day! We got it in Canada and it was quite the moment. Son fighting fish, dad with a big smile, son running to the other side of the boat afraid it would bite him, dad with a big smile, and finally, son with a big smile! We didn't get many fish that trip but it was Rick's best day. We often spoke of that fish and how proud he was. He loved his family. He always gave me the update on Margo in Madison, Corey and his college major of the month, and how great Theresa was doing at her work. He glowed when it came to family and fishing. Nothing else really needed to be discussed.
Well Rick, I need to say good bye...not ready... but must. You were a quiet man that said little but what was said was a lot. I will never forget the laughs, the many Drift Inn burgers, the voice messages that always began with "hey fuzzy..", the nickname "booter" I unfortunately received in Canada, the fishing lessons and finally, your friendship. I will take all of it with me as I teach my little boys those lessons. Thanks for the good times and the memories. I will have a Captain and diet coke to you every so often. And yes, you got the 50 incher before me but I didn't see it so it doesn't count. If you have any pull up there, direct one my way (preferably in a tournament) Goodbye my friend and watch over us all.
In closing, thanks guys for trying to save him. Really something. Keep your chin up and be proud.
Corey and Margo, you had a great dad. You probably never knew how much he touched people. We all loved him dearly. Again quiet but unforgetable!
God bless,
Larry Gille
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| Gentlemen,
When it comes to fishing, I really can't hold that intelligent of a conversation, but I want to thank all of you who did what you could for Rick on Sunday. I have been fortunate to know the Meverden family for a long time, their son Corey has been my best friend for as long as I can really remember. Losing somebody like Rick is never easy, but coming from somebody who knew him and was touched by him, thank you for your efforts. I always thought of him to be another father to me, and as most of you know, he would do anything for just about anyone. It deeply saddens me that I cannot be back home to pay my final respects to a great man who has given me so many memories to look back on. Terese, Corey, and Margo, I am so sorry for your loss, but please know that my phone rings 24/7 and you know I'll answer it. I miss you all back home and I cannot wait to come home and see you.
As for you, Big Diesel, thank you for all of the great memories over the last few years. Getting to know you and spend some time with you has been nothing short of a blessing for me. Please keep us safe up there and let us know when you get the big catch. We all miss you and love you. Thank you for always such a great man to look up to...literally.
Please keep the Meverden family in your thoughts and prayers. We love you all so so much. |
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| This is Margo, Ricky's daughter. I wanted to thank everyone that was out with my dad on Sunday - fishing meant the world to him and I'm glad you were there with him to help. You see, you all knew him as the "musky man," the man with all the gps maps to the lakes, the guy who could b.s. on the lake with the best of them. And while I agree to that, those are sides of him I did not see often, unless of course he was asking mom for a new "toy."
The man I knew was always there to answer the phone and talk to me if I needed him - even at 4a.m. He was the man I could not drag out of the bar even when we had an early t-time at a well-respected course. He was the man that moved my ENTIRE apartment with me one day in August - and we ALL hated moving that huge couch. He was my rock.
My memories on the lake are mainly from younger years. We would park the boat up on High Falls and go blue gill fishing because we used to tell him we actually wanted to catch something. Or when we would be going through the "slow now wake" he would let one of us kids drive so he could troll. And hen I was young I would always beg to drive the truck and scary for me, when I was little, the only time I could drive it was when we were pulling the boat out of the lake and he chose to just drive the boat up on the trailer (when I put that truck into gear and it slipped back I will never forget the expression on his face).
I could go on, but for now I just want to say thanks. Thank you all for being there, and all of you for being part of his life - because I know with as much joy he brought to you, you brought him the same or more amount of happiness. |
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| Margo-
I wish you would go on, and on, and.... Those are truly some awesome, funny, insightful and at least somewhat light-hearted tidbit stories about a man who sounds positively remarkable and enjoyable to be around. Truly sorry for your loss.
The only positive thing I can say about this is, man, what a way to go. To go quick and tip over into the drink with a big fish. Isn't that literally the ultimate babtism for the next world? How many of you have ever swam with a musky? Me neither.
When I finally "go," I want to go exactly like that: peacefully nose dive into the water with a big muskie I just conqured. I can't think of a better way to punctuate a fishing career.
Sorry if this post is like petting a cat backwards to some, but honestly, I think this is one of the happiest things I've ever read. A whole bunch of folks came together to help someone else in need, lots and lots and lots of people said lots of great things about this man, who died doing what he clearly loves to do.
Given the current situation, what could possibly be happier than that?
-Eric
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| Sorry to hear about this loss.
Our condolences to Rick's family and friends
Roy and Wendy from Holland |
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| I’ve known Ricky for more years than I can count. He worked for me and with me at Humana for a long time. I can honestly say Ricky taught me everything I know about fishing; whether it was how to filet a northern, how to catch walleye’s or anywhere in between. I’ve fished on the frozen and open water with him and never had a bad day on the water.
I had the privilege of fishing in Canada with him twice and what a thrill. He could go into a body of water he had never seen before and in no time was on the fish. He used to give us all a hard time about the hook set and how come the rest of us missed fish. I never saw him miss one. He had the most unbelievable snap of the wrist and could do it all while laughing and joking. I have some pictures of a huge Northern he caught and released in Canada – a fish just about anyone else would have had kept and mounted. Not Ricky – he left it go so someone else could have the experience. I will email those pictures to the contacts listed in the threads. I remember when he found out how much the replica would cost to have made from that fish and I gave him a hard time about how he should have kept the fish. His answer was he had a great time and got a picture so what else did he need…
I’m sitting here with wet eyes to say the least having read all the other comments and the common thread is Ricky’s ability to touch everyone. He would give you the shirt off his back and then some. I have never met a more genuine and sincere individual than he. He was no American Idol but could do a mean karaoke to some old country song – I hope he gets the chance to sing with the original artist now.
I regret I didn’t spend more time with Ricky in the past few years. All the times he asked if I wanted to go fishing and I always had something going on. Something that in hindsight surely wasn’t that darn important. We had talked about joining a golf league together next year and I guess he's playing courses better than Village Green now.
Like many of you I have many other fond memories of Ricky. I’ll think of him every time I use one of the rods he built for me. I’ll think of him every time I’m in the boat he convinced me to buy. I’ll think of him every time I hear Skynrd playing on the radio. Many more that I can’t type as everyone is wondering why a grown man is sitting here crying.
My family sends out their prayers to Terese, Margo, and Corey and to all that knew Ricky. I look forward to the day I get to fish with him again.
Jeff Fehling
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Location: Freedom, WI | Roy and Wendy - If you are the couple that we talked to selling raffle tickets in Green Bay I wiil make sure Ricks family know who you are. Take care.
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Location: Appleton,WI | I would like to say the showing of rick tonight was very nice.The family did a great job!!A lot of familiar faces there also. |
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| Hey Roger, yep that was the Roy and Wendy we met. They also sent me a very nice email. You didnt have to know Rick long for him to make a posistive impression. Even on those fishermen half way around the world. If I remember right Rick wanted to take them out but had prior commitments so I took them out and we had a great time, and I am sure they heard a few Rick stories in those few days with me as well.
The service was amazing! What the family put together was unbelievable. And thanks again Krappie I know that touched alot of people! And I left feeling alot better than when I arrived there today. The big fella touched alot of people and I am glad to see he had so many friends, where did he find the time? Its almost like he had a secret life outside fishing. Thanks to everyone for being there for us and all the kind words and emails and phone calls. And to Muskie Addict, that was definatly not "petting the cat backwards" you just said what everyone was thinking. Ironically I turned the TV on the other night to get my mind on something else, and "Legends of the Fall" w/ Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins was coming on, I remember Rick and I discussing that movie (a shared favorite between us) on several occasions in the many hours between fish, I lost it a few times, but made it through to the end and the very last sentence of the movie put it all together for me.
Lots of weird things happening the last few days at just the right time. Too much to chalk up to coincidence. The last few days has opened my eyes to many things, and I know I have Rick to thank for it. There has been alot of good already out of this tragedy. And we will make sure he will be remembered.
His son Corey had asked me if we could set up maybe a day where we could take some kids out fishing, because Rick was all about teaching and I would think he would like that, so if anybody is interested in helping out with that let me know. And we have a few other irons in the fire as well that we are working on. |
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| It certainly isn't politically correct to call any funeral classy, but for the lack of a better term, I would call this funeral "classy". Terese did a bangup job of showing Rick's real love of fishing.
And I swear that Rick had that smirk on his face that he was so famous for.
I was great to put faces to names that I've heard in the last few days. It was also special to see some old faces that I haven't seen in a few years.
Shane and Roger, a special thanks to you guys as well as the rest of the guys that helped Rick out on Sunday. Shane with a bad shoulder and Roger with busted ribs showed remarkable strength in their collective attempt to revive the big guy.
After hearing all of the recounts of the incident last night, it really becomes increasingly obvious that there is a higher power working in these situations. Shane in 58 degree water with a dislocated shoulder and have a 50+ fish inches from his face. REMARKABLE.
Driving over a reef on the way to the landing and doing only minimal damage to the motor AND it keeps going. REMARKABLE.
Roger with broken ribs.
Jeremy sinking his boat the day before.
Heck...these guys shouldn't have even been fishing on the day.
Amazing that all would come together for one final meeting. You guys were all there for a reason.
Like shane said last night - "We'll all see that fish again someday".
Shane, count me in for anything you guys want to put together. My health doesn't permit me to do a lot of things anymore, but I can still fish.
Call Terese for my number if you need me.
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Location: Green Bay, WI | Shane Mason - 10/25/2007 10:55 AM
...SNIP...
His son Corey had asked me if we could set up maybe a day where we could take some kids out fishing, because Rick was all about teaching and I would think he would like that, so if anybody is interested in helping out with that let me know. And we have a few other irons in the fire as well that we are working on.
Shane, count me in on this.
In fact, give me a shout when you can. You can reach me at 920-562-0405. Several of us in the Titletown chapter have been talking about this, and I have also been talking to Rick Lax.
Tom Betka
Edited by tcbetka 10/26/2007 9:11 AM
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| i kinda forgot about touching the reef.
i remember rick telling me never to go through there but in the emergency i chose to wing it.
i didnt hit the reef hard though. lucky i guess. i do remember seeing the kicker motor in though and i just took off.
funny things happen in tense situations.
glad to see the people i saw.
shane
koepke brothers
and ricks family. it was a class act with class people......
but because of my kids age and wife having to go to college at 6:30 this morning in rhinelander, we could not stay late.
count me in on a kids day. might hook this in with our muske nutz somehow too.
take carte all and keepo in touch.
dannyboy |
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| Hi All,
In the short time that I knew Rick, I can honestly say that it really was a real pleasure. I met Rick because of our pro-staff relationship with Lamiglas fishing rods. He was a very valued resource when it came to anything to do with rod building and/or repairs. I was looking forward to seeing him this year at the sport shows, in MN & WI, so that I could share with him the fact that I had joined the Rod Builders Guild and had built my first rod this year. He will be dearly missed. My condolences to the family.
Mark Carlyle |
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Location: Rhinelander, WI | As many have said words can not describe how I felt when reading all the above comments. My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Rick.
I don’t remember the exact quote, but it goes something like the following”
“Heroes are not born, they are made!” It sounds to me like a few where made on the day of Ricks death.
God bless all of you involved!
Nail A Pig!
Mike
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Location: Muskegon Michigan | Our deepest condolences from the Gang at Fishall Lures. Mike and Michelle King |
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Posts: 40
| Although I did not have the opportunity to meet Rick, I must convey to everyone who has offered prayers and condolences to the Rick’s family that your faith, support and friendship are exactly what Rick’s family needs right now.
I’m Shannon, Rick Lax’s wife, and since the day my husband informed me about this awful tragedy I have been offering my thoughts and prayers for this family daily. It is faith that will aide each and every one who has been touched by Rick’s passing toward a healing road. To give some insight into this road let me convey this:
We easily find God in nature; the majesty of a rainbow after a thunderstorm; the still, quiet of a moonlit night when a sudden splash in the water unveils a huge fish; or the deafening roar of the mighty Niagara Falls. God is there, and we marvel at His handiwork.
We quickly identify God’s involvement in the big celebrations of our lives; the birth of a child; the new job that remedies a financial crisis; or the car crash that left the vehicle totaled but our children unscathed. God is there, and we thank Him for His provision. We even acknowledge God’s presence in the midst of tragedy; the report from the pathology lab; the severance notice; or a situation such as this where a man who touched so many lives is suddenly taken from us without notice. We tend to ask “why?” however, we need to not question and understand that God is there to give us His strength.
Seeing God in the “big things” of life is easy. The more difficult task – yet a challenge just as rewarding- is seeing God in our everyday, mundane activities. We mustn’t overlook God in the small stuff. When we realize that God is in the ordinary, our daily grind suddenly has meaning and purpose. The household chores, whether the lawn or the laundry, become an opportunity to express love and care for the other members of the household. A walk to the mailbox brings a chance to greet the neighbor (who may be in desperate need of an encouraging word); a decision to take a trip out fishing may be the call God wanted you to answer as your aide and assistance would be needed on that day. For Shane, Danny, Jeremy and all those involved in helping with Rick, you answered Gods call that day.
Now that I’ve gotten completely long-winded allow me to close by saying that before God created the universe ages ago, He knew all about us. We should not be surprised that He has ordered our days and is interactively involved in the events of our daily routine. Nothing escapes His notice. Nothing is too insignificant for his care. If we are involved with anything, so is He.
To Teresa, Corey, Margo, Shane, Danny, Jeremy, and all others who I have not mentioned by name, please know that although I have never met you, my daily thoughts, prayers and inner strength is being sent your way. Live your lives with the overwhelming sense that God is present in the details all around you and will never give you more than He knows you can bare.
God Bless,
Shannon Lax
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| Please know that we are reading and finding comfort in all the posts. I want so badly to respond but the words are just jumbled up in my head yet so I will save a lengthy response for another day. The main thing I want everyone to know is that we are so thankful for the support and prayers we are receiving. Your kind words are overwhelming. For now, I can only offer a simple thank you. I want to say so much more but it's just difficult right now to put together the thoughts and the words the way I want to express them. Please excuse the fact that this is such a brief posting, but please realize the depth of our gratitude is unending. I will be back again when I can think better. Thank you all so much.
Terese |
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Location: WI | The story keeps getting stranger by the day. Many of Ricks buddies and acquaintances, in what for many was their first day back on the water since this unfortunate event. To say its the stuff legends are made out of is an understatement. Of the 3 boats I know of in the area where this happened all had a very special day.
Jeremy Van Ert and George Crum (who was supposed to be with us last weekend) had 7 fish with a 48.5 and a 47 being the biggest. I heard another C & R club member (dont know if he wants to be mentioned) had a 50.5 super slob. And Reef Hawg and his partner might have caught Ricks fish (same area, and a scar from being caught recently) which I believe it was a fat 51.5". I know the family had to be smiling after that phone call.
Some of Ricks friends fishing inland had a pretty good day as well. Jason Eichorn who was out fishing with Rick and I just the day before he passed scored his biggest Wisconsin fish to date, a 46, and added a 43. And his partner Travis Kopke also a friend of Ricks scored a nice 46". All of Travis and Jasons fish were brought in on the H2O prototype bait that was named after Rick, the Hardhead.
Someone out there is looking out for us, tomorrow will be my first day back on the water. Hopefully the streak will continue and I will get to one arm net one for Krappie. Dont think I will even be able to cast, but it wont matter, what could be better than spending a day on the water with friends.
Edited by Shane Mason 10/26/2007 9:53 PM
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Location: Michigan | Shock, Sadness, Regret........
Those are the emotions that I felt this morning when I got the news of Rick's passing.
I had known Rick for the last couple of years, since we worked several of the the Sportfishing trade shows together in various cities across Wisconsin and Minnesota, we had become good friends and spent alot of time talking muskie fishing.
I was suppossed to fish the Tournament with Rick earlier this month, but my dad was in the Intensive Care unit in Tennessee and I had to call Rick and ask if he could find someone to fill the void, as I would not be able to attend.
In typical Rick fashion he said "family comes first...we can go muskie fishing anytime...".
I talked to Rick, that Monday morning to see how he and his partner had faired in the competition. "We had a great time and caught some fish to.... and your equipment worked great....
That was Rick, always putting other people first.
And for those of you who never had the pleasure to work a sportfishing show with Rick, let me tell you he was a true PROFESSIONAL in ALL ASPECTS of the word.
I never had the pleasure to meet his wife or children, but I do know that they were his TOP PRIORITY and that he loved them VERY MUCH, "Family First".
I regret that I will never be able to sit in that Tracker with my friend and listen to the waves slap against the hull as we troll the waters of Green Bay, but there will come a day that we will met again and, knowing Rick, he will have the boat ready to go.
Once again, with tear filled eyes, and a heavy heart, to ALL of Rick's family I offer my most heartfelt condolences.
And to all of Rick's friends (and I know there are many) if you should see me at one of the fishing shows this coming spring, stop in and say hello, and let's spend a moment talking about a GOOD man that I was fortunate enough to have known, and called "my friend".
I had tried to call Rick this morning (2 hrs. prior to the message from our office manager passing the word to me) to let him know that I had been 4 for 7 on lake St. Clair this past Friday (and I thought of him several times that day), but i'm sure the Lord let him know, after he returned from checking out the lake.
Thanks for the Good times my friend, I will think of you often.
Greg Ellison and the entire Traxstech Staff
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Location: Madison, WI | I've had a couple of people ask me about Rick - people who think they may have met Rick but weren't quite sure. Does anyone have a good picture of Rick they would be willing to post?
Thanks
Craig Eversoll
Live Action Lures, LLC |
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Location: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin | My heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved Rick, especially his family. I will remember you in my prayers.
Shannon's message above was beautiful, to which I can only add: Amen.
Greg
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Location: Freedom, WI | Here is a picture. Gregg, Rick would want you to know that he was using your stuff when he got that last one and it worked great.
Edited by h2os2t 10/29/2007 3:27 PM
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 Rick hardhead 3.jpg (38KB - 216 downloads)
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Posts: 476
Location: WI | I could only hope that when I pass away that I have touched as many lives as Rick has and my own family could read a tribute like you folks have done for Rick's family. Rick sounds like a tremendous individual. |
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| shannon thanks, very touching.
yes rick was using the traxtech trolling accessories and rod holders and he was very happy how the stuff was working on his baot.
good luck to all at big fish time, and rick i know your listenning, can u help us get a 50 or 3 this weekend?
my new sister inlaw will be in the boat and has never caufght a ski. hopefully that changes this weekend.
good luck to all........
dannyboy |
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Location: WI | Last night the Titletown Chapter voted to tie Rick in with the Best of the Best tournament. Was a good time, even Terese came down for that. I am sure that gave Rick a big ole smile seeing Terese there.
Thanks for stepping up guys!
Still working out some of the other ideas we have been tossing around, thanks for all the guys who have stepped up and offered to help.
He keeps on shining on his friends!
We will keep you up to date when we know more. |
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