I FISH. THEREFORE I AM NOT HERE
April 25, 2025
Lee spent nearly every July in Alaska with our brother-in-law Michael for 20 years. When he started he knew very little about fishing, but Lee was a quick learner and soon became Michael’s right hand man.
After Lee died I kept his ashes in a closet. I didn’t know what to do with them. I even considered keeping them and when I die have them mixed together and scattered somewhere.
A friend, Erin, and I were talking recently, and she suggested having his ashes spread in the place where he found joy. I was awestruck by the idea, wondering why I didn’t think of it!
I talked to my sister and brother-in-law about it. Michael loved the idea, saying he and perhaps some of their fishing buddies would take the ashes and spread at their many fishing spots on the Kenai River.
I sent the ashes to them.
Here are a few of the many photos taken over the years. You will see that Lee was very happy being a part of the friendly fellowship during those summers on the Kenai River.
2019 was the last year Lee got to go fishing with Michael. In 2020 with the so-called “pandemic,” he didn’t go, and in June of 2021 he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
It seems fitting to have Michael spread his ashes in the place he loved.
My grateful thanks to Erin for suggesting it, and to Michael for carrying out the request.
I love what you did. That is a great way to remember Lee.
Those are fantastic pictures of Lee. I may steal some of them in remembrance of him.
Those are some big fish that didn’t get away. They say our runs in WA used to have salmon that big. Thanks for this post. I have some ashes to spread also. Was just thinking I should take them on my travels and let Jim adventure a bit and also stop at his favorite haunts. My sister would be glad for it I think. Since I may not be able to reunite them in the spreading thanks to family discord. Just got a letter from you. I’m going to read it now. Love you!