Lost One of the Best

[idnative1948]

Hey guys, I know this a four year-old thread, but it is time to get the plan together again this year without dad. It just never gets any easier this time of year when we meet to see who bought what over the winter and make fun of them if they can't hit a barn with it, have a scotch or two and just have a guys afternoon along with several more before October. Always comes down to, "What would dad do and how would he handle it?" I think this is what has kept us grounded as far as hunting since he has been gone.

 

[SFC B]

My best wishes for your fall and a great session of rememberance. My mom passed when I was in high school and I get the same feelings when I am with my kids now. "What would mom do, think, etc" and wishing she was around for the discussion. We can be happy in knowing that they prepared us for life the way they did and do our best to follow their example in a joyful manner. Drink some Scotch, breahe some mountain air and know he is glad you are doing it.

 

[mthillrunner]

My dad passed away 3 yrs ago, 2 months before our second kid was born. He died after a brief illness, and I was lucky to have more deep conversations with him his last few months than the previous 35 yrs. he was my favorite hunting partner. I was a novice bow hunter when he died(he hated bow hunting). That first fall I hunted alone. I had several close calls with animals but couldn't seal the deal. Last day of bow season, alarm went off, I shut it off and was going back to bed, I was done. My wife rolled over and said get your butt dressed you're not killing one at home. I went out, I got to my spot, hiked in a mile and say in a small meadow and watched the sunrise. I sat for an hour, just thinking bout my dad and life. I decided to cow call, gave one call, a bull bugled right in front of me, I shot him at 8 yds. I sat there the obligatory 30 minutes. While sitting I went to put my call in my vest pocket, there was a handkerchief in my pocket. I never used one, dad did, no clue to this day how it got in there. I almost cried at that point. Got it together, called my wife & told her I'd b awhile. She called 30 minutes later and said were on our way & hung up. She bought my 5 yr old son & 3 mo old son to help with the pack out. They hiked in a mile to keep me company for the pack out. My wife later said she thought it would mean a lot(profound understatement). I will never forget that day, or how it felt, I'm not an emotional guy, but every time I think of that day I still get a tear in my eye. I learned a few things that day. I have an amazing wife & a more blessed life than I deserve. Hunting is absolutely different without my dad to share it with, it now has a much deeper meaning. I won't miss an opportunity to take my boys hunting. Go forth and hunt man, it will feel different, but your dad will still be there in your thoughts. Happy hunting.

 

[L. I. Yankee]

Our prayers go out to you and your family....sounds like you have a long life full of wonderful memories.....

 

[EODRay]

It sounds like you were blessed to have a father that you will have many fond memories. I'm sorry for your loss!

 

[Bwana]

He sounds like he was quite the adventurer and I am guessing you have many great memories of your times together. Sorry for you loss.

 

[putm2sleep]

God bless idnative! May He hold you in His hands to comfort and bring peace. Many fabulous memories - take care sir~!

 

[Zach]

Larry, sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family.

My Grandfather passed away at 94 living his last days in paradise in HI.

I hope to make as far as both of them.