Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Listening Point - General Discussion :: Kanoes has Passed
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Exo |
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L.T.sully |
Paddle on Easy Luke |
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Stumpy |
I have not been here much lately. ...Totally shocked ! God bless him. I'll miss you Jan. I think you still owe me a beer. Someday when I pull up at your camp, I'll take one. :( |
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mgraber |
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maxxbhp |
quote Basspro69: "quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. I had to go look at his Hunter Island trip report. I recommend that. It's an epic trip, a good, concise no-nonsense report, and it's Jan. |
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Duboly |
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deerfoot |
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mc2mens |
I first met him in 2009, when he invited me to his home for a beer and to talk canoes and camping. I asked if my young son could join me. He said "of course". To my surprise, he also invited Mr. Barley and Mooseplums. We had a great time - enjoyed a few brews and talked shop. Meanwhile, Jan's wife, Theresa, played Guitar Hero with my son. They also had a great time, and I thank her for that. Jan and I are roughly the same age. It's sad to see someone die so young. I hope his wife and kids will be OK. I'm sure they will miss him. My condolences go out to them. |
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Kiporby |
Jan and I first met in 2008 when he invited me to his home when I needed to have my canoe repaired in the cities. He was very gracious to provide a place that weekend for me and my daughter to crash. From that moment on we were instant friends and ended up paddling and portaging many wonderful miles together. We did a trip every year together since 2009 until last Fall. Man, I can't believe you are gone. I know you wanted to take a break from canoeing and chose to sell some of your gear, but I always held out hope you'd change your mind and we'd get one last trip together someday. Sadly, that can't happen now. :( Cheers to my brother and friend to all the beers, sunsets, portages, and paddling miles we shared together. Perhaps, we will meet again someday on a trip where the wind will be at our backs and all the portages downhill. :) Luv ya my brother. You were a wonderful friend. |
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Northwoodsman |
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cowdoc |
Paddle on my brother |
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bojibob |
For those of you that didn't know Jan personally, he was nothing like he appeared here at times. He was a kind and very giving man. He will be missed by many |
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MNLindsey80 |
I met Jan in chat. We chatted many many nights with the usual crew, and shared a lot of memories of trips, tips for future trips, and just general BS-ing. Jan was an online "uncle" to me, and I am grateful that he literally took me under his wing at my first Wingnight last fall. You'll be missed! I drove home with my heart aching for Kiporby, Cowdoc etc who've tripped with him many times. I listened to this song, and it made me think of Kanoes. Drink a Beer Until next time... "PBS". |
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Tony |
Rest in Peace my friend. tony |
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KevinL |
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SaganagaJoe |
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Savage Voyageur |
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Canoearoo |
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Magic |
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shawhh |
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1JimD |
Always hate to hear of a paddler passing on ! We have all shared the same passion and love of being on the water ! Jim |
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mooseplums |
remembering the good times! RIP Jan |
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Sierra1 |
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Grandma L |
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OBX2Kayak |
My very first post to this board asked a question about kayaking in the Boundary Waters. Sensing a newbie, Jan kindly responded with an offer to sell me special kayaking maps for the BWCA ... at a premium price. His humor will be missed. |
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amhacker22 |
I'm sorry for his family and everyone here who knew him a whole lot better than I did. Its a loss we'll all feel. |
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Ausable |
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adam |
Jan had amazing energy and was not only a fixture at wingnights, but his welcoming, open, loving, and enthusiastic spirit helped bridged our community from the virtual to the real. He cared deeply and passionately about this group and site. I can't remember exactly the first time I met Jan and that is because from the first time you met Jan to the last time, he greeted you with open arms and boisterous yells. For those that don't know, Jan would buy and get paddles signed at wingnight in memory of other members who passed or had life struggles. I morn that there will be a signing of a paddle for Jan but no one is it more fitting for. I think I posted RIP on facebook for Jan, but Jan and rest and peace isn't something I can accept. He is already up in heaven pulling together a wingnight with all the great members who have passed and pulling new people into the fold. My heart felt sympathy for his family who will miss him the most. |
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mr.barley |
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nicek |
whose voice I hear in the winds and whose breath gives life to all the world, hear me. I am small and weak. I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock. I seek strength, not to be superior to my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy – myself. Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes, so when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit will come to you without shame. - Chief Yellow Lark, Lakota, 1887 - This site will not be the same without Kanoes. Deepest sympathy to family and all who known him and will miss him always. |
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mhart |
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Merganser |
You will be missed by many brother. RIP. Prayers for Theresa and his kids. |
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maxxbhp |
quote bwcasolo: "wow, so sad,sending love to jan's family. just got home from missouri and read this, i am in sadness shock. He did like that Ranger, pointed out to me that it was much superior to Rampant. THEN they put Ranger in cans, discussion was over. Very special times. |
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Spartan2 |
The Spartans |
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Ragged |
Jan was the first person to make an impression on me here and I was lucky enough to have met him on many occasions. I think everyone that knew him would agree if you hadn't met and spent time with him you really missed out. BWCA.com Kanoes and real life Jan were in many ways very different. You almost had to know him off the board to really get him on the board, if you didn't like him you probably never met him. While Kanoes could sometimes engage you in spirited arguments on the board he was the first person you would gravitate towards when you would attend a get togeather. Behind the scenes Jan was always doing good works, sending emails with wonderful words of encouragement and compliments and let's face it, the occasional apology :) Jan, you were always my favorite character of bwca.com, my heart aches, you will be missed To Jan's family, you have my deepest condolences |
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thinblueline |
quote Grouseguy1: "Unreal. I've really loved his posts and willingness to share knowledge. Was he sick? What happened? This is awful. All I know is he recently posted on here about losing interest in canoe tripping, then started listing equipment for sale, and then we hear this news. One can deduce what might have happened, but it should probably be left at that without any further public speculation. |
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ducks |
She's been reading this thread and it's been very touching. She loves the story about Kendra's girls calling him Joanne :) |
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plumbbob |
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IceColdGold |
RIP |
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jcavenagh |
Peace and condolences to his family. I never had the chance to meet him, and I will regret that forever. But I always appreciated his input on this site. He helped me out with tips with private messages, too. He was a generous soul. I know he will be sorely missed. |
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Bogwalker |
He may have been abrasive to some but his heart was big to all he met. Jan will seek out Amok and they will toast the day. Trust me Jan has the passion to paddle again. Like so many others I am numb today. Till we meet again my brother, I'll think of you every time my paddle hits the water at the start of every trip. |
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nojobro |
:( |
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maxxbhp |
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SunCatcher |
Remember to tell those in your family you Love them, and the friends you have that you Love them...because you might not get another chance. Jan, was a friend. He was a Great Husband full of Love for His wife and kid's. He talked about them a lot on the journey's. I feel blessed to have been not only know him, but hangout with him. Their are a zillion great laughs to remember, and some trying times on the trail, but at the end of the day, HE was ALWAYS there for anyone who needed a lending hand. That in itself, tells you just what kind of Man He was. RIP my Friend! SunCatcher |
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SunCatcher |
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onepaddleshort |
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Wally13 |
Very sad news. RIP Kanoes. You will be missed for sure. I never got to meet you but may we meet someday on a lake up in the sky. |
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nctry |
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nojobro |
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butthead |
Great Friend since we first met, he will be missed. Hope to spend a few campfires together on the other side! Kenneth Martinson |
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Frenchy19 |
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BnD |
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Canoe42 |
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KT |
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KevinL |
quote butthead: " Great Friend since we first met, he will be missed. Well put Ken. |
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housty9 |
Prayers to his wife, kids and family. When Ben, Kevin and I are in the bwca in two weeks we will have a toast for him. |
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Laketrout58 |
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Jackfish |
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AndySG |
quote maxxbhp: "I consider him a friend, and a friend to this community, and once the adding and subtracting are done, we are less without him. Bless you Jan, and bless us all. " Damn well said Bill. |
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Frenchy |
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NotLight |
I felt bad that he seemed to be souring on canoeing over the last year or so. But it seemed like he was looking forward to doing some new things. Sad loss for our community. God bless him. |
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pilot |
I am so very sorry. I loved that guy, and have never met him. We chatted a few times in the live chat, but that was it. Damn, two great Minnesotans within a week. I don't know what to say to you who knew him... I am reeling. |
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OldGuystilltripping |
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gkimball |
Liked his messages and advice. Big loss for us all. RIP...hope heaven is as beautiful as the BWCA you knew! |
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wetcanoedog |
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Twins87 |
I didn't know Jan well but he was one of the first people to greet me and my family at wing night a couple of years ago. And was incredibly good to my teenagers that weekend. I bought some gear from him last year and it was a pleasure. When I got home from work tonight I was planning to see what he had for sale...give him a hard time about selling things and tell him he should've had a combo mini wing/gear sale because it's always nice to have an excuse to gather members of this family. It seems unreal that I can't do that. My deepest sympathy to his wife Theresa, his kids and all of his friends here. |
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bfurlow |
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SaganagaJoe |
See Ya Round The Bend |
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HansSolo |
Really sad and hard to believe. I never had a chance to meet Jan, but anyone who was a member of bwca.com new him well. My condolences to his wife, family and friends. Rest in Peace Jan. Hans Solo |
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WhiteWolf |
My thoughts/prayers are with his family. |
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bapabear |
I was not sure how to take his posts at times but I realized that while abrupt or contradictory they were always well thought out in the way he saw things and I have to respect a person like that. His knowledge and contributions to this forum have helped me in so many ways as I began and continued my canoe camping. If Kanoes posted something I was sure to read it! I never met him in person but early on when I first joined here he saw I was from south central WI and he shared he was from North Freedom, near Baraboo, not far from me. There was a bit of a kindred relationship there that always made me feel if we ever met we'd have plenty to share. I appreciate the stories and pictures people are sharing. Helps me to get to know Kanoes the person. Rest in Peace Jan. |
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Grouseguy1 |
Prayers to his family. This is a big loss to this forum. |
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ozarkpaddler |
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andym |
I only knew him online and he was an interesting guy. Yes, he could be moody but he was also full of knowledge. I enjoyed how he was firm in his ways but those ways could change. The Taj 3, wood paddles, hard sided bear barrels and, I guess before my time, non-Kevlar canoes went by the wayside. Because he was such a knowledgable canoe camper, I took some pride in using Zaverals and Ursacks before him. For now, I'm just stunned and offer my thoughts of strength for everyone who will have a hole in their lives. A hole much bigger than the one we'll feel here. And that's pretty big. I'm not a religious person, so I don't think about what comes after this life, but I'd like to think that someday Jan will meet that bear and they'll have a good laugh about sharing Jan's everclear. |
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Dennisal |
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SunCatcher |
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Hawbakers |
quote Grouseguy1: "Unreal. I've really loved his posts and willingness to share knowledge. Was he sick? What happened? This is awful. No, he wasn't sick. He went in his sleep. Not sure but sounds like it could have been a heart attack. Not confirmed yet. But it is a big loss for us all. |
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blutofish1 |
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HammerII |
I checked in this morning and saw this thinking it was a sort of joke. Looking forward to a chuckle I read that Jan had passed. I must have read the words a dozen times before the weight of his passing settled on me. We chatted many a night from music to canoe trips and I always looked forward to seeing him when I came thru the area. He had talked about losing the passion during the winter and even talked about him and his wife coming east for few days to play in the salt water a bit. Its times like this that no matter how hard I try words can't convey the sorrow of his passing. |
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Ragged |
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Me2012 |
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airmorse |
Life is too short. May the blessings of the Lord give your family and friends comfort. May he pave the way with calm winds and waters for you as you end one journey and start another. God Bless. |
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JackpineJim |
Paddle on Kanoes, paddle on. |
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Pinetree |
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Soledad |
I will miss him. -Matt |
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georgelesley |
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HikingStick |
A new day has dawned Paddle on To new vistas eternal With the wind at his back Paddle on Those who knew you on earth will miss you May new shores and waters kiss you Until someday we may be with you Paddle on Rest in peace Jan (aka Kanoes). You will be missed. Paddle On |
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Spartan2 |
quote Zulu: " If you go back and read his old trip reports, they had capital letters and punctuation like all of us were taught to use. The lack of those was an affectation that he decided to adopt later on. I think it became like a signature for him. I hadn't really thought about it until someone pulled up his Quetico Solo trip report from 2009 and I read it again last evening. It was a very good report, and (in my humble opinion) much easier to read than his later ones. |
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campnscrap |
I was blessed to have met him & spend time with him in person. My heart is heavy and my deepest sympathies go out to his wife & kids and to all of us....his "canoeing family". He is going to be GREATLY missed!! RIP Jan.... |
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dblwhiskey |
Wow just think 2 great Minnesota losses, first Prince and now Kanoes (I hope my stab at light hearted humor can help to find a smile for those at loss) |
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lars54 |
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Craig K |
Jan is the reason I went to my first wingnight at Baker Park Reserve, I bought my first lightweight camp stove from him, I picked it up from him there. Talked to him many times at several wingnights since. He will definitely be missed! |
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paddlefamily |
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bapabear |
quote VoyageurNorth: " A song in tribute to Kanoes - Jerry Vandiver song +1 Love that song! |
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Basspro69 |
quote Hawbakers: "quote bapabear: "quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. Jan would be more proud of these than the posts he's credited with. He had the heart of a debater and a lot of times when people thought he was arguing with him, he was just playing devil's advocate and making you stand up for your point. He made me so mad in chat one night I told him to go pleasure himself, and 3 days later we were talking about seeing each other at wing night. That man could sell ice to eskimos. :-) |
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napinch |
I never got a chance to meet him, but always enjoyed his straight to the point responses. Sometimes harsh, sometimes sarcastic, but you always knew where he stood on a topic. Thoughts and Prayers being sent to Jan's wife and family |
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jfinn |
Very sad day for his family and friends. Rest In Peace. John |
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inspector13 |
I was so looking forward to sharing my special out of the way places on the North Shore with Jan on his next step in Arrowhead recreation. I would have loved seeing his close up shots of tiny wildflowers and mosses in the Lake Superior area. I will truly miss him. Thanks Theresa for letting Jan open your house to us crazy internet people. Thanks Trix, Bogwalker, and Adam for getting this very sad news out to me. |
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Exo |
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Outdoorsfan69 |
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drnatus |
That was my first response...have been on a backpack trip with the Scouts so was away from the computer until this AM. This is a major loss for the bwca.com community. He was a true advocate for this site. I wish I could have met him in person. When I used to frequent chat, he would always address me by my real first name (not username)...that I told him once! I asked him if he kept a list by his computer and he said that he did. It always impressed me that he put on that personal touch. Have and will pray for his soul and for his family. Jan you are missed. |
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2K10 |
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buz |
He was a wild card, a funny card, kind card, deck of cards, no two alike. |
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Ragged |
quote Zulu: " Nice Pic Pat. Its a little depressing reading the names on the paddle..... more than a few of those fine folks have already left us and now Jan man too. This news has put me in a funk all weekend, Jan was ALWAYS the first to yell your name when arriving to a get-together, and you could always count on a hug immediately following his boisterous notification of arrival. |
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Old Hoosier |
Prayers for the family as they deal with the sadness and shock. Old Hoosier |
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luft |
Can't process that he is gone... way too soon. My heart goes out to his family. |
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Boats059 |
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Chilly |
That's why I always had such high respect for Jan, whether we agreed or disagreed, I knew for certain he wasn't tossing a line to be grey or safe. He spoke from his soul and didn't hold back and that's about the most American/Freedom thing I can think of. |
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bellolake |
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moosewatcher |
I will hoist a Ranger soon in Kanoes name. Here's to you Jan and good travels on your next journey. Paul |
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3Ball |
I was very sad to read of his passing and will miss his presence here. Condolences to his friends and family. You had a special person to enjoy. |
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Jeriatric |
When it had disappeared, I slid open the sliding glass door and yelled at my wife: "I just saw the 1st, 2nd or 3rd most spectacular meteor of my life." Reflecting over the last several days, this meteor was number 1. I can remember where I was at and what I was doing when I witnessed the other two meteors even though they occurred decades ago. I will forever associate this most recent meteor with kanoes' passing. |
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schweady |
quote onepaddleshort: "...pondering You hit it, onepaddleshort. Thank you. |
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BWPaddler |
He will be missed immensely - we could always count on him for input and stories here. He was indeed part of the heart and soul of this site. Condolences to his wife and children - I cannot imagine. I did know of so very many kind things Jan did. For him to unexpectedly cease to exist is mind boggling and scary. 4th death near me in 3 weeks. WTH? Folks - LIVE. Just LIVE. We can't know when life will end and we must make use of today!! RIP Jan. Such a loss. |
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inspector13 |
That Thursday night I drank the last Indeed Stir Crazy that was left over from a 6 pack I brought to his house a while back... |
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AdamXChicago |
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MNLindsey80 |
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fitgers1 |
I haven't been around contributing much the last year or two. I've dropped in and read topics and dropped a quick post here and there. It's sad to me because my lack of being around had a lot to do with Jan. I don't know what it was, what post, topic, chat or whatever it was that made me finally say screw this and kind of drift off into the still water. I thoroughly can say I would have preferred to keep popping in like I did years ago. It's sad because it just goes to show that stupid little things can cause tension and strife where it's not needed or warranted. It's things like that that make times like this even worse. Worse because I was lucky enough, fortunate enough to meet him a few times and I know what he was like in person. All I can say about those in person meetings is that, hell yes! He's one hell of a great guy to BS and tip a beer with. He's all the great things that I've read about in each and every post above. Friendly and as welcoming as can be. Very knowledgeable and always ready and willing to share that knowledge. Sometimes it was whether you wanted it or not. : ). Anyway, I enjoyed the vast majority of our interactions and in person meetings. Now, as they say, it's too late. Too late to see him again, to disagree, to agree, to laugh, to tip a beer. I'm sorry I never got you those venison sticks Jan, I know you liked them. Well, it's sad news indeed. I write the stuff above as a lesson to myself and anyone listening. Don't let bad feelings get between people. I didn't drop out of my sometimes constant BWCA posts because I was mad or upset though. Just didn't feel the need to deal with the negativity that had arisen between us. I'm sorry that happened Jan because looking back it's obvious there was so much more that was good. Yea, I know, I ramble. As we say in the Navy Jan, Fair winds and following seas. I'll put your name on the canoe for the summer just as I did for Amok. Rest well and my condolences to his family and to BWCA.com. All have lost one hell of a man. |
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dprochef |
Rest well and paddle on Kanoes. You are missed |
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hooky |
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bapabear |
quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. For sure. I see in his profile he joined here 2/21/2006. Rough figuring for that date and his number of posts he averaged 7 a day not to mention chat room. It's no wonder I feel the sense of loss - he was such a prolific contributor. |
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Hawbakers |
quote bapabear: "quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. Think of the number of posts that were deleted. It could have been a bigger number! |
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maxxbhp |
quote Hawbakers: "quote bapabear: "quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. Hahahahahahaha, that's right. Plus me and Jan got sent to the principal's office one time, that was a month if I remember correctly. You can make and lose money or whatever, but experiences are yours forever. Miss him more every day. |
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mr.barley |
quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts.Jan was Babe Ruth |
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VoyageurNorth |
I remember this song being played for a couple others we lost. Seems appropriate here too. Paddle true & deep Kanoes. |
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snakecharmer |
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BlueSkiesWI |
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Zulu |
This makes me very sad. I really liked him. He was a great outdoorsman, craftsman, and he liked to help people. I enjoyed his posts especially the back and forth with people who had contrary opinions. He really had a big heart when it came to people and animals. I always thought one day he would surprise us and use a few capital letters in his posts. I really miss him. |
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AndySG |
Indeed a sad day for our community. I was one of many newbies here that was welcomed and advised by Jan. He was a pillar of this community, helping many and supporting this site with zeal. Often criticized for his reminders for members to donate, he would shrug it off and take up the torch year after year. It is obvious by his participation that he loved this place, and the membership he referred to as "one big family." I will miss his presence. My deepest condolences to wife Theresa and children Nate and Erin. My prayers are with you. |
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timatkn |
I bring this up because first of all it would make him laugh and second of all it was a valuable life lesson for me. I used to think people don't change or grow over time but Kanoes proved me wrong. Thanks Jan! I will miss you, already do... My thoughts and prayers are on the way to his family and friends. T |
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Hawbakers |
Gone too soon. Paddle on, bro. I will remember your laughter! |
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yellowcanoe |
We clashed at the start when I joined. Sometimes he was rude but the sort of guy I love to meet in person around a campfire Now that will never ever happen. |
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maxxbhp |
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sunnybear09 |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
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Trix |
Jan is one of a kind and he will be missed huge. I have enjoyed many a mini wingnight and our camping wingnights with him. He has been one of the family and wing nights will not be the same without him. He had a very genuine heart and a kind soul. Paddle on my brother! Love you tons! Prayers go out to Theresa and his family. RIP Jan. |
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OneMatch |
I am so very sorry for his friends and family. Gone too soon. |
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pswith5 |
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brotherbob1958 |
Its hard when you meet people on here, listen to their wisdom & learn from them. His wisdom will be missed Prayers to his wife and children |
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bwcasolo |
first time i met jan was at a wingnight and he handed me a ranger, it was my beer of choice as well. paddle on my friend. |
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nctry |
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dicecupmaker |
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bhouse46 |
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Trix |
quote nctry: "Erin, your dad was one of a kind. Thanks for sharing him with us and I hope you can find peace in all this. Give your mom a hug from us... A big one as there is a lot of us. " Ditto on those Hugs! Jan was a big hugger and we want to give all those hugs back to your family. He will always hold a special place in our hearts. He was family and loved by many. Our thought and prayers are with you and your family. |
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bbrown6057 |
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TomP |
Jan's family and our family here are in my prayers. Jan, May perpetual light shine upon you and I hope to meet up with you someday on the other side of the portage. |
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analyzer |
Seasons in the sun |
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otter1 |
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hobbydog |
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Boppa |
Condolences to his family. He was a friend whom I cherished. Boppa |
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boonie |
My condolences to his family and to the many, many friends he leaves behind. |
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aholmgren |
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cyclones30 |
I've never had anything bad to say about him, bought a tent from him a couple years back and always seemed nice in the chat. RIP Jan |
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RainGearRight |
My condolences to his family and friends. Smooth waters Jan. |
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mutz |
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520eek |
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ducks |
When I first read the thread title I thought Kip was giving his Horseman Brother crap about giving up canoeing and selling his stuff. Ohh how I wish that was the case. I've been trying to figure out what to type for the last 5 hours. He just emailed me yesterday about the pocket rocket I was buying from him and I sent a check and now he's gone. Lots of people have mentioned how he made them feel so welcomed at wingnights. So true!!! At my first one in Rockford as I walked around the shed into the clearing (having never met him before) he starts screaming "ducks" and ran over to meet me. I felt like Norm in Cheers. He always enjoyed the kids at the campouts and when he won door prizes he would give it away to one of the kids. We lost a great one today. My thoughts and prayers go out to Theresa and their family. |
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Dbldppr1250 |
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Loony_canoe |
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starman |
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lindylair |
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HighnDry |
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Basspro69 |
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sueb2b |
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Rob Johnson |
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Cedarboy |
CB |
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Scout64 |
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520eek |
Thanks to all who made this place so awesome! Because of Jan and this site, I went many times and will probably continue to do so. Many a night in chat room have people spent, late into the night with all kinds of topics and debates...lol. Jan was there leading many a discussion. I always enjoyed the late winter night chats the best...I looked forward to them as they always lasted a while and many people would show up! I spoke with him on Thursday night as did a few other members. I hung out till he signed off like I always have... I did finally get to pull off a wing night last fall and meet Jan! It was great fun as I also got to meet others! Dang.... :( Adios amigo... |
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Jeriatric |
I regret that I never met kanoes in person. We always got along and while some say he could be abrasive, he never was with me. I offered views on economics and art in exchange for his advice on paddling and fishing. I think we both gained something. I have been pacing back and forth between sentences.....still not accepting. |
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kato |
GSP |
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JoeWilderness |
quote amhacker22: "I never met him in person, but he shared a lot here and I feel like I knew him. This is really too bad. Very well said as I had never met Jan in person either. Though through what he shared here, some emails we exchanged and facebook, I concur with what others above have said about the size of his heart. He was the first person on this site to give me encouraging words after my heart attack in the fall of 2011. Also, some years ago I purchased some gear that he was parting with and he sent a little something extra with it. It sure put a smile on my face when I opened the package. I still use that little something extra and will treasure it always. Leslie and I send thoughts and prayers to his entire family and this paddling community here online. Paddle on Jan. Paddle on................ |
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Jaywalker |
Our little community is missing a giant tonight. I too was shocked to hear this terrible news. My condolences to his wife, family, and other friends and loved ones. |
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OldFingers57 |
Rest in Peace. |
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Arkansas Man |
Bruce |
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HikingStick |
For some reason, every time I would listen to Jerry's (OneMatch's) "Rocks and Roots", I always thought of him. At one point, the song goes, "Now when I die and meet my maker, I pray there's canoes up there...". In my head, it was always (and now, will always be), "Now when I die and meet my maker, I pray there's Kanoes up there." |
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bottomtothetap |
I found him quite entertaining in that regard and counted it as one of the reasons I enjoyed being on this site. I will miss that. R.I.P. to him and condolences to his friends and loved ones. |
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MHS67 |
Condolences to the family. Larry |
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bwcadan |
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ObiWenonahKenobi |
Seems one of the legacies to be drawn from his life can be a lesson for all of us . . . You never really know how much impact you may have on the lives of others. I'm making a donation to BWCA.com in his memory. |
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butthead |
Ken |
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mooseplums |
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shock |
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bwcasolo |
quote butthead: " Jan Johnson nice job ken, very, very nice. reminiscing today. |
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jb in the wild |
You will be missed my friend. And in closing I would like to quote Kanoe's most famous words or should I say word ............!!! CAR !!! those who know , know what I'm talkin about. JB |
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fadersup |
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ArrowheadPaddler |
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mcsweem |
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myceliaman |
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Basspro69 |
May God Bless his family, and help them deal with this sudden loss. p.s. I cant think of anyone that loved this site more, Goodbye BFAM |
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Leo66 |
http://youtu.be/uBx76N9tudQ Above is a song by the Steeldrivers. Where Rainbows Never Die. A song to find some solace on this sad day. Leo66 - Jesse |
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rtallent |
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maxxbhp |
quote butthead: " Jan Johnson Yes, well done, thanks |
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jberns |
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VoyageurNorth |
quote ObiWenonahKenobi: "Each of us desires to have a legacy of some kind. Obi, what a wonderful idea, VNO will too! I think that kind of tribute is something he would have had the "thumbs up" for, he was such an integral part of this board. Met Jan (in person) a number of years ago, at a Wingding in Madison during Canoecopia. Had known him through the board but that was the first time met him in person. John & I got along with him from the start and enjoyed our short time visiting with him. Our hearts go out to his family, to his friends and everyone who had a chance to meet/talk/text with him, he will be sorely missed! |
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OldScout48 |
quote mooseplums: "remembering the good times! He was always ready to lend a helping hand and this was what he got while pushing me out of the boggy parking lot a Wing Night Campout. I will miss that character. |
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onajourney |
My sincere sympathy for his family & his BWCA family here. As someone else said - paddle on! |
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Hawbakers |
quote Ragged: "The thought of never again hearing Jan's unique laugh from a mile away is tearing me up right now, there was no mistaking it. So glad to have known him but so sad that there are so many that will never get to." +1 agree. |
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pastorjsackett |
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DeanL |
I feel that we have lost a huge part of our foundation at BWCA.com as Jan has left an impression on all of us. Everyone has a story of a way that Jan has touched our lives. His contributions will be deeply missed for a long time. I was fortunate to meet Jan one time at a wingnite before Christmas a few years ago. Just like everyone else has said he met my wife and I with open arms. Thoughts and prayers to the family and all those close to him. RIP Kanoes. Miss you already. |
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overthehill |
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Kendra |
When I told my girls, who met him years ago, they were heart broke and said “No, not Joanne!” When they were little they called him Joanne and he loved it! Think of the impact he had on all of us! Maybe it was in chat, on trips, camping with him at Wingnights or just reading his posts here. He will be greatly missed!!! I can’t imagine what his family is going through. They had him a lifetime! We had him a fraction of that time! Thoughts, prayers, and my deepest sympathy goes out to his family! Note name tag. : ) |
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billconner |
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crumpman |
One of his most enjoyable threads was the one in which we could follow his Hunters Island solo. My son and I had already determined to paddle that route, Jan's trip made that goal even more desirable. He was one of the first to comment when I announced that my son and I had finished the loop. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, I am so sorry for your loss. He will be sorely missed. |
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FOG51 |
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schweady |
jan would want each of us to reach deeply. set up a recurring donation to the site today paddle on, my friend. |
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jamotrade |
Sometimes abrasive, always charismatic, I have learned a lot and been entertained by his presence here. Paddle on, my friend. |
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onepaddleshort |
early morning too much coffee sun is draping the spring cold outside the glass i sit here in front of a screen pondering how I can miss someone I never met for me you were only words of advice scattered trip reports a few fleeting photographs no tin cup evening cocktail passed across the campfire no laughter to echo across the dark water yielding to the hum of your forest machine only the burst of lower-case electrons across the wires late night chat middle-of-the-winter schemes of summer still it was enough like the window with the warmth to the right of me now as in o’keeffe’s, “ladder to the moon” what’s unreachable now was unreachable then yet as the stars give way to daybreak they still glimmer beyond the sun when tomorrow’s campfire flickers when loons call to evening’s fading light the returning stars shall be our handshake voiceless friends amid the night. |
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AndySG |
That is beautiful Shorty. You have talent my man. |
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Hawbakers |
quote AndySG: "@ onepaddleshort I agree! Thank you for sharing Damn! Now I need a tissue. |
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TwoByGreenCanoe |
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whiteh20 |
Kyle |
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Basspro69 |
quote maxxbhp: "+2quote butthead: " Jan Johnson |
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Fishman3 |
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Hoaf |
I'm stunned by this. I'm not a prolific poster but am here quite often and pay close attention learning a lot from many of you including Jan. It was apparent immediately that he is, well, "colorful" to say the least. Soon, I was a Kanoes convert just like many of you and really enjoyed all that he had to offer here. He and the rest of the H crew have been an inspiration to my solo aspirations the past few years. Most recently, I came across one of his posts that showed the closeup of a frog - can't remember the post - but looking at the eye of that frog I was sure I could vaguely catch Jan's reflection and it meant something to me. It was already a cool picture but that made it awesome. We are all leaves from the same tree, each being unique and special in form yet one and the same life. I am off into the Quetico Monday morning for 2 weeks and Kanoes will be with me. Frog - Kanoes |
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HighnDry |
That's a legacy! |
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Bannock |
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BLee |
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MrBreeze |
Many prayers and thoughts to his family and close friends. Gods Speed Kanoes |
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bassnet |
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unshavenman |
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Bonvicken |
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Swampturtle |
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Dances with Sheep |
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Guest |
Bless all of you - hug the ones you love tonight and everyday. |
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quark2222 |
He seemed like a nice guy with well defined opinions about things and life, whether you agreed or not. It has been drizzling all day here, and I can imagine him under a tarp with an all-day cold drizzle, thinking, "It is getting brighter out West". Then, push on the bottom of the tarp to drain some water that has puddled, which usually ends up on your dry firewood pile. We all do that. It stunned me that the last post I saw was Thursday night around 11:18 pm, and that he was no longer just a few hours later. Makes one think about things. There may have been more posts after that, but I'm not sure. One lesson to be learned here is to make darn sure your estate planning/will are current, and in order. I'm not a lawyer or accountant, but my wife is totally organized about such things, and it really makes a lot of sense, even though it is a real pain in the rear end before the time when you have no choice in the matter. A lot of people don't want to talk about such things while they are still around, which just leaves things to the wife, kids, probate court, attorneys, Fed IRS, State IRS, etc., to figure things out. You can do your family a huge favor by doing some planning, and they will certainly appreciate having your having done some planning when the time comes. Not trying to preach here. I am just relating my experience with having my wife forcing me to do what really is best for all involved. Tomster |
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Parnell |
He helped me so much years ago when I was young to solo canoeing. RIP my friend who I never met, bless your family. TIM |
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tg |
Jan...buddy...you will be dearly missed! I haven't been around here as much lately but was stunned when I read a post a few days ago about Jan losing interest in canoe tripping. Then I saw all of his classified ads. I almost called him that evening to find out what was up... I took for granted that we would get to paddle together sometime... Damn My sincerest sympathies to Jan's family and other blessed friends Much luv bro -Rich |
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HighPlainsDrifter |
Shocking loss. I met him only once. I was heading north on I-35 and had stopped at the Kettle River rest area. There were 2 rigs in the parking lot with canoes. I had one and he the other. He walked over to me and started a conversation. For awhile, we talked like we knew each other (I guess we did from BWCA.com), but the road seemed to be calling both of us (or was that the canoe) and we parted ways. It was a pleasure meeting him. My condolences to his family. |
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HowardSprague |
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mirth |
My condolences to Jan's family. I wish I had the chance to meet him IRL. |
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Basspro69 |
quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. +1 I've read posts from other board members who are no longer here and it kinda keeps their spirit alive within this cyber community. It will be very bittersweet to look at Jan's posts. |
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Basspro69 |
quote mooseplums: "the good times :) Awesome ! |
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gsfisher13 |
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shock |
quote Basspro69: "quote HighnDry: "26,316 posts. He will live on forever on this site, as well as within the heart of his family & friends. |
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ducks |
quote Kendra: "Jan posted this about Bill (Kevlar) days before he passed himself. Very true Kendra. Thank you. I'm heading to an area on my solo that both of them posted about quite a bit. Going to toast Kanoes and Kevlar. |
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Minnesotian |
Haven't been on the site in a week, so I am just finding about this right now. I am shocked. Floored. Jan was the only guy here I that talked to outside of the forum. When forming my first solo trip, I decided on the Frost River Loop because of his trip report. Rest in Peace, Jan. You were a great guy and I'll miss ya. |
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Kendra |
quote kanoes: "we all lost a vast vault of knowledge when he left us, and lost a great guy period. I was fortunate enough to have met him." Many of us feel the same about losing Jan! Mini Wingnight going on with these two in waters we have yet to paddle! Missing both of you! |
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Basspro69 |
quote onepaddleshort: "to kanoesThat was beautiful ! |
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fishguts |
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w_w_w_31 |
I just came across this and am, well, a lot shocked. He was a good man, and will be missed by many. He wasn't always easy to get along with, but hey, neither am I. But I know he would do near anything if you were in need. I only paddled with him once, on Prior Lake. That was a good day. dave |
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BeaV |
Had the pleasure of hanging out with Jan at a couple Wing Nights. I enjoyed our brief time together and understand why he will be missed. beav |
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nojobro |
Prince was to the world what Jan was to this website. "you've only been gone an hour, but it feels like a million days..." |
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ozarkpaddler |
quote Basspro69: "quote onepaddleshort: "to kanoesThat was beautiful !" Great job, that was another nice tribute! |
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plainspaddler |
Mike |