This last week has marked the passing of two bright lights of the paddling community, Eric Soars and Don Starkell.  I won’t list their many accomplishments or legendary stories here.. that is best left to those who knew them well.  For thoes of us who only knew them only through instruction and inspiration, we feel the loss as that of a former teacher, knowing that a part of who we’ve become was sparked and molded by their influence. Through their lives and their words they have inspired so many of us to get out there and experience the world in ways many only see on television as Craig Jungers posted recently through Paddlewise.  In fact, I think Craig’s comment on the passing of these two men is worth repeating.. “

” We are an uncommon lot with a lot in common. When we go we will most likely go as a result of doing something adventurous and not because we spent too much time on the sofa. RIP both Don Starkell and Eric Soares. The best of a bad bunch. ”