I lost a hunting buddy

[Phil Yearout]

My wife's brother has been suffering with a terrible disease called Total System Atrophy (akin to Parkinson's or Lou Gehrig's); he's been wheel chair bound for the past few years. We lost him Wednesday. He was about 14-15 years old when I first showed up as a long haired freaky art student for my first date with his big sister; he's almost more brother to me than my own two, both somewhat older than I. We've stomped many a bird cover together and even though I always toted a double gun and he shot one of those auto thingies (and shot them well) we navigated these old prairies pretty well. In a way it's a blessing I suppose; he had nothing but suffering ahead. But still. Here he is in happier times with his three granddaughters. Stanley Merlin Critchfield - rest well, brother. I love ya. I'm reminded of the ending of a John Hewitt story where John's father was asked if an old friend had been a good hunting partner. His reply: "As good as there was. As good as there was."

[Randy Roberts]

My condolences to you and your family Phil. Sounds like you have some wonderful memories to hang on to. Take care....

[C.O.B.]

I'm sorry for your loss, it's always tough to say goodbye to a loved one. I believe they are always with us however.

[Mills]

Sorry to hear the news

[Dean Romig]

He is obviously a man who earned a lot of love - it shows in his granddaughters' faces.

Sad that it ended like it did.





.

[BRDHNTR]

My condolences Phil. My dad died of lou gherigs disease and we were hunting buddies for many years before the disease finally took him. I feel your loss.

[mobirdhunter]

Phil,

Every art student needs a hunting buddy like your friend. I'm glad to know you had him for the time you did. Nothing diminishes the pain of loss -- and, thankfully, nothing is quite like the sweetness of the memory of a good friend.

[Phil Yearout]

Thank you, my friends, for all your kind words. Stan would be pleased that so many good folks took the time to wish him well, as am I.

[Garth Gustafson]

Very sorry about losing your good buddy Phil. He must have been a great guy. Its tough for sure to say goodbye to the people we love but at least he’s in a much better place now. I hope your great memories sustain you in your time of grief.

[davidboyles]

Phil hunting buddys are some of the hardest to lose and especially family. Great Memories you will never lose and I bet you have more pictures like the one you showed us. Like someone said the love he had showed in the faces of his grandchildren. Carry on when you are ready and retrace memories and his footsteps with a smile on your face. Best David