A rewrite of an old poem. True story of the birth
of many a fisherman's favorite fishing rod. Five
Friends who often fished a small lake near Federal
Way, Washington found it hard with the current fishing
Poles to catch bass. So they designed their own pole
in the garage of one of the partners. Hence the name
Fenwick on the pole. The Fenwick pole became a household
name with many fisherman. My Father in law was one of the
original five partners. Always in January I suffer the annual
day both my Mother and Sister died. January 17 in different years.
I took the day to wandering lost in thoughts. The unexplained,
I had never been to Lake Fenwick. I was following garage
sale signs.
Only the Good die Young
Today brought back a day of sad memories;
It was the Memorial day of Mom's death.
Maudlin I got in my car and just drove,
There on the road was a garage sale sign.
I picked up a fishing rod--more sad memories!
I looked at the rod, a Fenwick, $20.00,
On the lot behind the sale a small lake
I asked the owner, "Is that Lake Fenwick?"
"It is--and this rod was designed in that garage!"
The price would have gone up if I told him my interest.
My Father in law was one of the five original founders
I looked up and knew Mom and T-Fred were watching
T-Fred was a good man, Father of my wife
He died at the age of "55" much too young
Mom died months later at the tender age of "54"
I looked at the lake could envision a younger T-Fred
His fly rod searching under logs for Bass
I bought the rod for my Grand kids
Above I could envision Mom making clothes for the kids
I walked away and hid the tears both dying so young
Today I look up and say a prayer, "Only the good die young!"
My Grandson said, "Grandpa I just love fishing!"
A Fenwick is not for memories--"Your Great Grandpa
would love for you to have this pole. A Fenwick is for fishing!"