Dedication

[jfreeman]

I hope this is the right place for the topic. I'm looking for some help/ideas. My dad recently passed away and I would like to dedicate an area on behalf of his name at Taneycomo. Something as simple as having a bench put in up by the shelter with a small engraving or plaque dedicated to him on it. With all the hatchery work going on I thought maybe there might be something we could do there? Obviously some sort of donation to the local TU chapter or to the Shepard of the Hills Hatchery would be in order.

I grew up trout fishing with him, and I introduced him to Taneycomo years ago while I was a student at Missouri State. He then retired 5 miles away from the darn and used to fish 3-4 days a week. He would catch and release, was always concerned about the river, the fish, and those around him. Most of you probably spend time with him on the river whether you knew it or not.

Any help would be appreciated! Reply to the topic or email me! jfreeman@miami.edu

[Danoinark]

Jfreeman...what a wonderful tribute to your father. I don't believe I ever met him or if I did we never exchanged names, but it sounds to me like I would have liked to have known and fished with him.

As to your ideas, I would suspect that the hatchery folks would best be the ones to discuss this with. I don't see why they would not allow some type of bench or other tribute. The TU chapter in Branson is inactive at the moment.

Dano

[Phil Lilley]

I'm sure we can do something... I'll inquire and get back to you.

[Terry Beeson]

GREAT idea...

[Kansas Fly Fisher]

What a great idea! I'd be willing to donate some manpower if the need is there.

John

[Leonard]

jfreeman....

You never said the name of your father... but Im sure I know who you are talking about...

I fished along the side of him a few time and he gave me alot of pointers..

I didnt know him well, But knew him when I saw him (and ofcourse the truck).

He was a GREAT MAN!! I hope Im speaking for everyone who knew him..

He will be missed.. But never forgotten on the Trophy Banks of Lake Taneycomo..

My sincere condolences to you and your family....

Im behind your Idea 110%... Anything for a good man like him!!

Leonard

[jfreeman]

Thank you for all the responses and to those who emailed me. I really hope we can make this happen. I just got back from the Lake...lots of fisherman and lots of big fish! I was there maybe 20 minutes, and just from watching from the bank, so 8-10 BIG Trout (4-8pds), most where hangin out where the fisherman weren't (and I can't figure out how they get so big)

My Dad's name was Tom Freeman, and I'm trying to dig up a good picture per request, but never trusted myself with a Digital Camera down at the water, so I might have to scan something in. He drove a light brown Chevy Blazer, but one of his fishin buddies drove that truck that was mentioned. He spend 80% of his time down at big hole and really just fished from a couple hours before first light until just past sunrise.

Two thoughts...The bench down by #3 would be perfect. If I could just add a plaque to the back of it for him, or the bench at #1 needs a little love. Maybe rebuild it with a back on it? Possible the Hatchery would be willing to allow me to dedicate a runway for him for whatever fee...

Jeff

[Phil Lilley]

James emailed me back and said they are working on it.

[jfreeman]

Thank you Phil.