Elaine, Lezleigh, Brent, and the rest of the Berkel Family:
It was nearly 13 years ago that I met Jim when I went to interview for a job at Hartshorn Marina. In hindsight, it wasn't just a job that I was interviewing for. You and Jim treated me as one of the family.
With the luck that I had at the marina falling through roofs, getting the riding lawn mower stuck at Fisherman's Landing, and running over a guidewire (that was laying on the ground) for a telephone pole with the riding lawn mower, just to name a few, I don't know what ever possessed Jim to invite me to hunt with his family knowing that I would have a rifle!
Jim was one of the most friendly and kindest men that I have ever known. He always knew someone anywhere you went. I think a little of Jim has rubbed off on me, because the comment has been made to me on occassion that I always know someone wherever I go. That is because I learned a lot from Jim on how to treat people. When you treat people right, you get the same respect in return.
Unfortunately, Jim could not be with us for another 13 more years. However, I know that Jim will be looking out for all his family and friends in the weeks, months, and years to come. For the nearly 13 years that I knew Jim, I am eternaly grateful.
I'm sure he is already making plans for one of us to get that 30-point buck in the deer woods! And, I am sure he will see to it that "Bullwinkle's" relatives are walking around in the deer woods for years to come. . .
I am a better man for knowing Jim and you. For that, I say thank you.
Scott Hepworth##imported-begin##Scott Hepworth##imported-end##
