cactusjumper
Gold Member
I started this topic on another forum, but it has fallen on hard times. Seems like there should be a topic where we can pay tribute to our fallen comrades. I will, regretfully, write the first post.
On Wednesday morning, moments after I arrived, my dad took his last breath. He nodded his head and smiled when I came in. Although he couldn't speak, the nod and smile spoke volumes to me. It seemed that he was just waiting for me to be there.
Dad was as Italian as they come. He sang, played the guitar and mandolin and had a way with the ladies. His friends never had to worry about him turning away from them. His enemies could count on his Italian temper when they crossed him.
My first trip into the Superstitions was because he wanted me to be with them on their first expedition. Chuck agreed, and I can assure you I was a very proud thirteen-year old. We made many trips together over the years.
It was a blessing that he passed, but in truth, I have missed him for over five years now. I have had a long time to get used to the idea of his death, but it was not enough.
Tony Ribaudo was a Dutch Hunter. Everyone who goes into the Superstition Mountains will be walking in his footsteps.
He is with me still.
Joe Ribaudo
On Wednesday morning, moments after I arrived, my dad took his last breath. He nodded his head and smiled when I came in. Although he couldn't speak, the nod and smile spoke volumes to me. It seemed that he was just waiting for me to be there.
Dad was as Italian as they come. He sang, played the guitar and mandolin and had a way with the ladies. His friends never had to worry about him turning away from them. His enemies could count on his Italian temper when they crossed him.
My first trip into the Superstitions was because he wanted me to be with them on their first expedition. Chuck agreed, and I can assure you I was a very proud thirteen-year old. We made many trips together over the years.
It was a blessing that he passed, but in truth, I have missed him for over five years now. I have had a long time to get used to the idea of his death, but it was not enough.
Tony Ribaudo was a Dutch Hunter. Everyone who goes into the Superstition Mountains will be walking in his footsteps.
He is with me still.
Joe Ribaudo