Friends gathered on November 3rd, to pay last respects to an old friend that many of us have known and loved. We spread the ashes of one of the finest river dogs in recorded history over one of his favorite places; the Buffalo River. Among the well-wishers were Chief's people (Joe Hooper and Madeleine Kernen), Bruce Johnson, Janet Kreifels, Juan Forkner, Connie Chadwick, Heather Hoggard, Mike and Jeanne Simpson, Chris Torrisi and Steve Owens. We put in at Pruitt and walked darn-near the whole way to Hasty. Oh, it really wasn't that bad. We'd paddle a bit, walk through the riffles, and float a little more.

We found a shady spot about a mile down river; a gravel bar fraught with rocks that ole Chief would have loved to have had thrown into the water, only to have him retrieve them in good Chief-like fashion. Joe spread Chief's ashes into the waters that he spent so many years in, shivering, in hopes that someone would toss a rock in for him. In unison, we all tossed good rocks into the river, and called out "CHIEF", one last time. Joe brought flowers that we laid adrift in Chief's honor, and we all took a moment to remember the best ole dog a person could ever wish to spend time with on the river.

After we dried our tears and finished a celebratory beverage, we continued our walk/ float down river. Madeleine soon found a perfect little gravel bar at about the halfway point, in which to spend a quiet evening. While setting up camp for the night, the ever-popular and dithering Connie Chadwick prepared a smorgasbord of delectable finger food items. Others also added their contributions, as we gleefully prepared individual and small group meals in the diminishing light of the day. Chris Torrisi made his famous Outback Oven brownies for dessert, and as usual, everyone had their fill.

That night, we spoke of river lore and spirits of the haunted hills in hushed tones as we nestled near the fire. Actually we talked politics, education, state of the economy, retirement investments and future trips west. The conversations among the group were spirited as usual, affirming the fact that we are all eclectic, atypical and opinionated members of society. The night was uneventful and restful for all involved. We broke camp early, since the time change took effect that morning, and made Hasty before noon.

The Chief Float was a big success, as we laid our old friend to rest, to mingle with the rocks and make his return, to the rich and beautiful river that gave him so much joy. Be well, Chief. You will be missed.

- by Mike Simpson