Brad's Lasting Legacy

[Parker Bachelder (Brad's Profile)]

Hello everyone, this is Parker Bachelder

I am incredibly grateful for the kind words posted in the threads below and the out pouring of support from this community. This site was one of the few corners of the internet that Brad ever visited. The world of side by side shotguns, Parker's especially, was his greatest passion. I can easily say it is what he lived for.

Brad worked all day as usual on Tuesday, the day before he passed. He worked endlessly to meet the many commitments he made with all of you. Often over the quoted time frame but with tireless resolve. I always knew that he would never leave that place, that he would end his long career only when god called him off.

Brad covered every imaginable niche of the firearms world. Going with the many changes in this industry that our company has operated in for nearly 30 years. The seemingly endless amount of information that he possessed was remarkable. It is astounding the variety of things I am exposed to on a daily basis. Brad was recognized as a master among every type of enthusiast he catered to.

I am privileged to have been able to share in his vast knowledge, to have trained under who I considered the best. His love for the craft instilled the same passion in myself, and a drive to maintain the legacy he built.

My intentions for the company are to continue forward as we did before. My father has left me the means to continue his work, maintaining the level of quality that he would strive for. I would joke with Brad that I have become pickier than him. I will personally be reviewing all jobs in our facility, as a means of re-assurance that our commitments will be met.

The donated Parker Trojan shotgun was the very last piece he completed, and with predictably satisfactory results. He was delighted to have been able to contribute to this wonderful group of people and their efforts to maintain the legacy of the brand he held most dear.

My family will do all they can to remember the moments that we had, and the many things he was to me as a father. A mentor, and a admirable master in his field.

Thank you all, I look forward to chatting soon.

-J. Parker Bachelder