Tag Archives: In Memory

In memory of Edward “Fast Eddie” William Fee

Edward William Fee brought out the best in those that had the pleasure of knowing his vibrant soul. These words are not easy to put on paper in order to fully comprehend the man he was. Born in Ft. Bragg, California on February 1, 1953, he was ready to take on the world until the very last opportunity came his way. As a young man he found himself in the constant eye of adventures and friendships. His knowledge knew no bounds and his limits knew no end. Eddie always followed his heart and in 1971 landed a potential fishing life with cousins Gerald and Tommy Masolini in Cordova, Alaska. There he fished with the best of them, the heroes of the fleets, from the Bering Sea to the border of Mexico. >click to read<  09:56

In Memory of Norbert Stamps

The Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation and fishing community grieve the passing of our beloved friend and board member, Norbert Stamps. Norbert had a love for the ocean, the environment, and the people who made their living from the sea.  Even in his final year of life, Norbert was able to see his ban of mass balloon release come to fruition. Fair winds and following seas captain! We will miss you! Please keep Norbert’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time. >click to read< 11:17

In Memory of David Scott “Oaksey” Oakes 1967 – 2013

1394468_656424637735296_964145650_nI never met David “Oaksey” Oakes, but I feel like I’ve known him for most of my life. I’ve seen his face on wharfs up and down the coast, along with other unnamed fishermen that would only be known by sight.

“You know that guy from the Miss Understood?” “The one that helped you jump start your truck?” “Yes yes!” “Hellofa guy, can’t think of his name, though!”

Oaksey was that guy! I’ve read so many comments and heard continuously that David Oakes would give anyone the shirt off of his back, but isn’t that a common thread amongst fishermen? I’ve read comments from cousin’s, his children, Son in Law, and friend’s, and they have included stories from the beginning of his life, to the end.

They have included fond memories of shared baloney and butter sandwiches made by his Grandmother, and shared with a cousin on his Grandfathers lobster boat, and a quick thinking Captain pushing the father of his grandchildren from a sinking vessel to give him a chance to survive.  Some have made me laugh while some, I reveal, have made me cry. My tears have not been for a man that lived his life everyday to the fullest, but for those that live in his unexpected past which has arrived much too soon for them.

I say to you, the children and grand children of David Oakes, every time you look at each other, you will see his reflection in the faces you fix your gaze upon and you will know he is there with, and within each and every one you. I send my deepest sympathy and utmost respect to his Mother Elizabeth Oakes, his children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. 17:00