Longtime Detroit News writer has passed away

   The last time I fished with Dave Richey was on Bay de Noc out of Escanaba. We shared stories about other trips, writing, and the funny things that happened to us along the way.
   I didn't have near the experiences or travel that David had. He had travelled the world hunting and fishing for many species of game.
   Probably his closest friend was his twin brother George, who proceeded him in death. George wrote two very thorough compilations about antique lure collection.
   The two spent many hours fishing from AuSable long boat with the late Frank Love and Same Surre.
I actually met Dave when I joined the prestigious outdoor Writers Association of American (OWAA). This is both a national and international association for outdoor writers and photographers comprised of many of the best in the business.
   After receiving my acceptance letter from OWAA, I received a very personal letter from Dave Richey welcoming me to the organization, pointing out the benefits of being a member, explaining it's history and how it came to be, and some personal information about himself.
   He closed by offering to be of any help to me he could be at any time, then again welcomed me to the organization.
   In later years, Dave's eyesight began to get real bad keeping him from doing all the outdoors things he enjoyed.
   That didn't stop him from being a speaker at the annual Woods N' Water Outdoors Show in Imlay City.
   For years, I would introduce the speakers and their topics, give a little biography to the crowd then step aside for the seminar.
   One year Dave showed up on time but couldn't remember what he was supposed to talk about. Not deterred, he pulled a chair up in the middle of the crowd an asked, "What would you like to have me talk about?"
   From then on it was quite a question and answer program with Dave spinning many of his stories as different topics came up.
   His admonition to me one that "I'm in the field every day," was over. Like many of us that knew him personally, we'll surely miss him. Enjoy the peace I'm sure you'll find.