As some of you might already know, my father passed away on October 1st, and one of his requests was that I fish MegaBucks regardless of the outcome.
I honored my father this pass Saturday by fishing the event.
I knew it would be somewhat of a heavy burden, and although it was harder than I anticipated, the fishing community has a way of alleviating the strain of such a difficult loss.
My father had always said, we’re a tight knit community, one that always supports each no matter what.
That being said, the meaning of his words significantly rendered this pass Saturday at the MegaBucks event.
Whether it be through offering condolences, to sharing a story, or simply navigating in between boats as a flash of remembrance filled the crisp morning air.
At days end, I dropped a pinch of my father’s ashes in Big Rideau Lake, it was one of his favorite lakes to fish, and it only felt right that I do.
As we made our way on shore, distribution of prizes was to begin.
I was honestly expecting a few words in regards to my father’s passing, but the staggering gesture that came next was overwhelming in a way I had never experienced before…
RJ & Birdee came up with the idea of honouring Francois Dufour with a memorial plaque that exemplifies exceptional dedication and support of competitive angling in Eastern Ontario.
The fishing community has always been one who’s bound by strong relationships, those said relationships, have been fortified in way words cannot describe, for that I thank you both.
As the moon rose on the horizon, I know he was looking down in genuine admiration to every single one of you.
