Wednesday, December 27, 2017
I am truly saddened to hear of Allan's passing. My fondest memory of him was checking the trapline on skidoos, Allan, Darrell and I. We were riding along the fence line that separated PA National Park from the farm land. Darrell slowed down the skidoo and stopped beside a buffalo. It was and still is the most beautiful experience with wildlife I have ever had. A little while later we stopped on the banks of Sturgeon Creek and had to cross the ice on foot to check a trap. I didn't follow in the exact footsteps of the men; I ended up a few yards away, closer to open water. Two steps onto the ice and I was through. They got me out of the water and onto the ice. Allan was yelling at Darrell to get my boots and socks off. Darrell was only wearing one pair of socks so Allan sat down, pulled off his boots and gave me his socks so that at least my feet were dry. We then got on the skidoos and headed for home (or so I thought). We ended up stopping at a neighbours for tea. My borrowed (Allan's old canvas) ski suit was frozen in the position of riding on the skidoo with me still in it. But, we stopped for tea. The following day other neighbours came for dinner at the Folden Ranch. As we were eating a quiet voice piped up; "did you hear about the girl that was skinny dipping up at the creek?" The neighbours were shocked, I was embarrassed and then Allan announced that I was now the Mermaid. He was so full of jokes and eyes that twinkled when he "got" you with one.
He will be thought of often and with a twinkle in my eye.
My thoughts and hugs to Lana, Suzanne, Kyle, Maureen and Darrell.
