doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun FAQ @ doublegunshop.com Sad Duty, as recieved from WTS: Ave, Bill Wise.

A good amount of Bill's fine and inspirational poetry was recited at the service. The eulogies were...I don't know what they were. They were just the most memorable collections of reflections and anecdotes I have ever heard. I don't know how to describe them. I feel that as well as I thought I knew Bill, I knew just a speck of what the man was. For the first time ever, I am at a loss for words. I hope someone will fill in for me. Sorry. Bill Murphy

He was, and is, alive in the truest sense of the word ... and tho there were the normal doubts and fears that none of us might even imagine, he came to understand just how well he had drawn after all. I know that for a fact.

Just back from Delaware and Bill's funeral. Eightbore, sorry we missed you. It was a lovely and inspirational service. Bill's casket was decorated with a surfboard and most of his mojo bag contents. Rosalie and their children and spouses and grandchildren were fantastic. The eulogies were delivered by Bill's sister who gave a very funny and sincere address about Bill and Rosalie, and then Leroy Betts, Bill's pal since high school gave a talk about Bill's sporting life. It was very moving.

As part of it, Leroy read this: The Old Songs Which I thought was perfect.

But in the end, the reception following the funeral was full of fun. I will post some pics later today of people laughing and smiling and celebrating and remembering Bill, who brought more disparate people together than anyone I've ever known and enjoyed each one of them. Perhaps the most comforting thing that can be said about a person after death is: "He was loved." Bill was loved.

Bill Wise was one of the most courageous, intelligent, humourous and thoughtful men I ever met. His enthusiasm for all things double-gun was infectious, and his positive attitude, despite what would have been a debilitating physical ailment for most people, was inspiring. Fly on the wings of the Dove now, Bill...

I just logged on and read the news. I am choked up. I have read his words of wisdom for years, and only wish I could have met him in person. My most sincere condolences to his family. Jim Haynes

If you haven't read these yet.. more very poignant tributes:

http://bbs.shootingsportsman.com/viewtopic.php?t=33414

On behalf of myself and family or deepest regrets and prayers go out to his family in this their trying hour.

God Bless.

Greg Westberg Family

My grandfather told me that no man is gone till his memory and works are forgotten by all. On that basis, Bill will be with us for a long long time.

Condolences to the family.

Mtwoodson

Seeing Rosalie and her family at the funeral, I realize how strong they really are. Please let them hear some of your thoughts in a note or two. I know it would mean much to them.

It has taken me far to long to express my thought on my friend, Bill. To his family, and his memory, I sincerely express my regrets.
As one looks at a man's life, one does look for those parts that will bring credit to that man. No matter how that search may go, no man may find any facet of Bill Wise's life lacking in valor and love.
One is often challenged to define the difference in valor, bravery and courage.
I will offer you this to contemplate: Do not confuse valor with either bravery or courage. Valor stems from the character of the person. Bravery originates in the willingness of the individual to confront danger. Courage is found in facing obstacles when all choices are disadvantageous.
My friend was brave. He was courageous. But I will remember him as having valor far more than most men that I have known.
He also had love and for that I will remember him.
God speed my friend and rest well in the bosom of our Lord.
John