Contributed by Stan Marshall 07/20/10:

On behalf of the Ancient Mariners Okanagan Chapter we would like to thank everyone who attended the dinner and dance on July 16th and 17th.

Many of you travelled many hours and we appreciate all who attended.

Special thanks go to Peter Levequec and Shawn Gerak for bringing all of the seafood and for having their entertaining cook off, also of course to Lorne Jones and the Tugs who entertained us Friday and Saturday night, who did a fantastic job!

Playing from their up and coming new CD that’s soon to be released.

Special Thanks for all those that helped in the preparation whether it was in setting up tents or taking down tables.  Thanks to all the helping hands that kept our dishes clean!

We would also like to thank all of the companies who graciously donated prizes that were handed out on Friday and Saturday.  These include: 

 

Bracewell Marine Group

British Columbia Coast Pilots

Fraser River Pilots

Gowlland Towing

Hodder Tugboats

Island Tug

Jackson Triggs (Vincor)

Jones Marine

Lorne Jones and the Tugs

Marine Industrial

Mercury Marine

Northern Transportation Company Limited

Pacific Pilotage Authority 

Pentage Winery

Poplar Island Marine (Tim Bell)

Seaspan

Smit Marine

Thunder Bay Tug

Tymac Launch 

We enjoyed all of your company and we hope that the tradition continues to live on every year.

Thanks again,

Regards,

Stan and Rose Marshall

Bob and Penny Martin              Okanagan Chapter

Contributed by Diane Brown 07/10/10:

BRISCOE, Edward James December 14, 1920 - July 2, 2010 Passed away peacefully. Edward was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Edward worked as a Marine Engineer where he travelled the world and visited many ports. He attained First Class Engineer Status for Steam Driven Ships in 1955. Edward was a Fellow of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology based in London, England. He worked as ships' Engineer in the merchant marine, until joining the Canadian Coast Guard where he was an integral part of the design and maintenance of the Canadian Ice Breaker fleet based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Edward and his wife enjoyed the Vancouver Opera and Symphony as well as other cultural events. Edward leaves behind his loving wife Ardell Ione and step-sons Ken, Craig, and Perry and families. Edward was always a Gentleman of the highest order.

For information regarding a memorial service, please phone 604-740-5819. 

Contributed by D. Brown 07/05/10:

LUFT, Captain Harold Norman, May 26, 1925 - June 29, 2010:  It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father at St. Michael's Hospice after a short battle with cancer.  Dad was predeceased by his wife Bunny (1995), his parents and 9 siblings.  Harold is survived by Jackie, his close companion of 10 years, his daughter Cecile (Wayne), Ed (Kay), Ron (Dianne) and Wendy (Richard); 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Harold served Canada in Europe with the Seaforth Islanders during the Second World War and upon returning to Vancouver eventually settled into the tugboat industry, working at the Gulf of Georgia Tugboat Company and later Seaspan in many capacities, including Chief Engineer and Captain until his retirement in 1990, after 40 years.

Special thanks to Jackie for her strength, she ensured Dad was as comfortable as possible over the last few very difficult weeks.  Our sincere appreciation goes out to the staff at both St. Michael's and Burnaby General, and in particular to Stephanie who was a joy for Dad when he needed it most.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 8th, 2010, at Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby.  In lieu of flowers, donations to Canuck Place would be greatly appreciated.   

Contributed by Stan/Rose Marshall 06/23/06:

Hello one and all,

I see looking at the website that there have been a few tragedies, with the losses of some of our fellow mariners.  In Oliver, we have been tested ourselves but fortunately no one has been hurt.

The 9th Ancient Mariners Dinner and Dance is getting closer with less than a month away.  If everyone is true to their word, we will have well over 100 people in attendance, which is the largest crowd to date.

We have 16 campers confirmed staying on our property.   Lorne Jones and the Tugs will not have their second CD ready in time but will be debuting some of their new songs.

We have been very fortunate to get some prizes from some of the marine companies, in these tough economic times, so hopefully almost all will leave with something.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone and if you are still thinking about coming please let us know because the crowd is getting larger and the room smaller.

So lets start the second half of the year with a great big party.........Cheers

Regards,

Stan & Rose Marshall  (stanmarshall@persona.ca 250-498-4400)

Bob & Penny Martin  (Bob Martin 250-493--9428 tugman@telus.net) 

Ancient Mariners of the Okanagan

   

A Tribute by Ian MacPherson to a Close Personal Friend:

Yesterday, June 9th at 15:30, one of our most "colourful characters" crossed the Bar. 

I'm referring to Captain Harry Thiessen, a close and personal friend to me and so many others.

Harry has had many health issues that would have fallen a lesser man years ago but everyone who knew the "Captain" had to admire the strength and fortitude that only he possessed. He met every challenge with the same quiet resolve and dignity, never complaining, never turning his back on adversary, he was always there for anyone who needed anything at anytime.

As a young man growing up in and around New Westminster, I had heard many stories and shall I say "Epic Adventures" of this man, from the old Hollywood Bowl days to some "less than famous" deeds on and around the Fraser River. Even people who had never met him had stories to relate, he really was "one in a million".

I don't remember when I actually first met Harry, but I think he was working for Valley Towing running the Sea Cap X and I remember assisting him into the Gypsum Plant (that's a few years ago) with barges, and anyone who ever heard him on the radio could never  mistake his voice for anyone else. Later on he became a B.C. Coast Pilot and many times I had him on board as passenger while I delivered him to one ship or another. Between him and my old mate, Normie, I was kept hugely entertained listening to some of the "good old times" that went on in their pasts.

Through the Ancient Mariners, Port Kells Chapter, I got to really know and respect Harry. How or why we became fast friends, I don't know, maybe someday I'll figure it out but for now I do have to say that I will really miss him, both for his charm and his humour. As one of the Coast Pilots said about Harry, he is very "Charismatic" and I think that is about the best way to describe him. Many times we sat on his patio, in Sorrento, sharing old adventures (and maybe a little wine)  of  our days as "river rats" (although different generations) skinny dipping and just hanging out on the banks of the muddy old Fraser River. It's funny how years later and miles apart, "River Ratting" was almost the same for so many of us who later became tow boat people.

A thought that comes to mind as I am writing this, is after he moved to Sorrento and he was after me to "take over" as President of the Port Kells Chapter and I was not going to do it, he said , "you really don't have to do anything, all you have to do is "delegate" to others. Humm, I thought , I can do that, so I agreed and after I left and moved to Courtenay, I pulled the same "line" on Rick McKee and that's where we are today. Funny how history repeats itself. Thank you, Harry, that's a lesson in life that has and will serve me well and will continue to do so. Harry and Bobby Fiarillo, were the main stays in getting the Chapter up and running and under Harry's watch, the membership had swelled to more than 300 people the last time I counted, almost all had, at one time or another, either worked with or were friends of Harry's. To say the man was well known, is kind a "no brainer"

Harry leaves behind the love of his life, Colleen and his children Charmaine, Tyler and Dusty to go on to where ever one goes when they "pass over the Bar" and I know that in a very short time he will be "running the show"and who better for the job than Harry. To Colleen and the family, know that my heart and thoughts are with you at this grievous time.

Already, I miss you man and when the day comes that we meet again, I'll gladly pour you a large shot from my bottle of Appleton's.

Rest in peace my friend, smooth sailing.

Ian

Contributed by Don Medforth 06/4/10:

Information on Gary Kleaman

Many of you probably know or have heard of Gary Kleaman.

I regretfully report that he has suffered a stroke and is currently hospitalized.

You may send get well messages via E-mail to kleamanmarine@hotmail.com and Wendy will pass them on to Gary.

I am sure he would appreciate hearing from his friends, acquaintances and former customers.

Regards:

Don Medforth

Note:  The Kleaman family ran a tugboat business for many years in the False Creek area (Kleaman Towing).  Gary later on started a marine brokerage business and retired last year. He still has a website with some marine history included - www.kleamanmarine.com

Posted by McKee 5/12/10:

Thanks also to the Directors and Diane Brown for responding to the call to send a "fan out" of emails to friends and co-workers past and present.  It seems to have worked!  

Contributed by Stan Marshall.  Posted 5/12/10:

Hello one and all,

I would like to thank Rick and Lorraine McKee for their quick response in regards to posting our messages about our upcoming dinner and dance.

Through their efforts we have successfully confirmed that we have sold 75 percent of the tickets for Friday and Saturday.

So if anyone is interested or still thinking of coming you better act fast or you can always look at pictures posted here after the event, but trust me it’s not the same.

Regards,

Stan Marshall

Contact stanmarshall@persona.ca 250-498-4400 or

Bob Martin 250-493--9428                 tugman@telus.net 

Check out a couple of contibution to the humour page that reminds us that you never outgrow the feel of the sun and wind on your face or the raw freedom of getting around on your own wheels.

Take a look in the Boat Gallery for a pictorial contribution by Bob Olson of the Fanny Bay Ancient Mariners at work in Port McNeil.  04/26/10

Contributed and Posted by McKee 04/15/10:

Hello All;

With spring in full bloom here in BC it won't be long before summer is upon us.  Time does fly. We can all relate to how, suddenly, the events that we have been thinking about attending, are looming in sight and we haven't made plans.

For those of you that have attended an annual Oliver Ancient Mariners Dinner and Dance, in the past, and for those of you that have always wished that they had, please contact Stan Marshall right away!  The good people in Oliver, who have always done a spectacular job of providing great food and entertainment for everyone, are starting to wonder why they have not sold any tickets for the July 16 & 17, 2010 event.    As we all know,  they can't plan properly if they do not have any idea of how many are coming.

Rose and Stan Marshall have a lovely cherry orchard acreage, just outside of Oliver, BC and invite everyone with motorhomes or campers to camp at their place.   That makes it really convenient for the outdoor BBQ that is held there, on Friday (the16th) nite.  Ribeyes with all the trimmings and a live band.   Lorne Jones and The Tugs are well known for their talent and humour in the marine community and can get the toes tapping in no time.  (Reread the original invitation which mentions UPick Cherries).

Some of us will be travelling to Oliver on motorcycles.  For those of us staying at local motels, there are designated drivers to get us to the farm and back and also to the Elks hall and back on Saturday.  That service will be provided for everyone that requests it.   

The Saturday (the 17th) Dinner and Dance is catered by a local group and the cost to the Oliver Club depends on selling the right amount of tickets for the number of plates that they order.   The resounding success of past events has insured that they break even, which is all that is hoped for.  

So check with your friends and your calendars folks!  It will be a fun opportunity to catch up with old and new friends. 

Best regards to all and hope to see you there!

The Port Kells Club

Contributed by Stan Marshall.  Posted by McKee 04/15/10:

Hello Folks,

I just wanted to let you know that the Bel-Air Cedar Resort 250-2443 has only 4 rooms left for July 16th and 17th!!!!!!!!

Other accommodations in Oliver are Cactus Tree Inn 250-498-2225, Maple Leaf Motel 250-498-3479, Gallagher Lake Lodge Motel 250-498-2119.

**** Since the last dinner and dance there have been some changes to our farm. We now have a Deer Fence around the property with 12 foot access gates, so it might be a problem for larger vehicles to make their  turn and park in the back but we would situate you by our house making it easier to get in and out.******

If you do not want to park your camper, Fifth Wheel or Motor home on our farm there is the Oasis Campsite 1 km north of us located on the river 250-498-2415.

As you know the summer time in the Okanagan is busy, and with the Southwinds Hotel demolished there is limited availability for accommodation.

Remember we have designated drivers.

Regards,

Stan Marshall stanmarshall@persona.ca 250-498-4400

Here is a copy of the original invitation posted in January 2010:

 We would like to announce that due to a long hiatus we are offically starting up our 9th Ancient Mariners Dinner and Dance on July 16th and 17th 2010.

 We welcome everyone who is interested in coming and we wanted to give you early warning as you plan your travel ahead in the new year.

On Friday July 16th at 17:00 on our farm in Oliver BC we will be having an outoor BBQ with ribeye steaks, salad etc with a live band called "Lorne Jones and the Tugs" playing music from their CD "The Tugs" plus their latest CD coming out soon about work and life on the Westcoast of BC.

There will be a licensed bar and free camping for the weekend on Stan and Rose Marshall's 7.6 acre fruit farm........plus all the cherries you can eat!!)

We will be having  designated drivers and we will reserve some rooms at the Belaire Cedar Motel.

On Saturday July 17th we will be hosting a catered dinner at the Elks Lodge in Oliver BC starting at 17:00.

 With live music and prizes generously donated by all of the marine company supporters.

 For both nights we will sell tickets for drinks at $3.50 each and non alcohol drinks for $1.00 and the party starts at 17:00 for both nights and ends when you do.

Tickets are $30.00 for each night per person.

We hope to see you there and we will post updates in coming months.

Also we are planning something special for the Saturday night but we are asking for photos from anyone from the past or present, whether it's a person or a boat that relates to the marine world.

You can contact Stan & Rose Marshall 250-498-4400 or Bob & Penny Martin 250-493-9428.

 Ancient Mariner Clubs that hold meetings every month include: 

 

Contributed by Stan Marshall.  Posted by McKee 03/09/10:

Hey Rick and Lorraine,

We now meet at Shades restaurant on Main street in Penticton the third Thursday of every month.

Regards,

Stan Marshall

Contributed by MacPherson.  Posted by McKee 03/07/10:

"Yippee!"  "Got any recipes?"  TRANSFERRED TO HUMOUR PAGE

The  photo of my Bear Hunt finally came back.

Contributed by MacPherson.   Posted by McKee 03/01/10: 

"Ahola" (that's hello from the "Big Rock", the one on the left) 

 TRANSFERRED TO HUMOUR PAGE.  

Contributed by Rick McKee.  Posted 01/17/10:

Good Morning – we are trying to get a contact email or phone number for Hugo Eikanger who is listed on your crew list for the Ancient Mariners of BC

Thanks so much

Janet Schmidt  for Ernie Catherwood

Catherwood Towing Ltd

604-820-9221  local 110

"Nobody promised you tomorrow, so you should make the most of today”

If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

Contributed by Rick McKee.  Posted 01/17/10:

Hello Ancient Mariners,

I am doing some genealogical work for a friend here in Ontario and was wondering if you could help me.  I am looking for information about a man named City (Sid) MacMillan who used to work for the Vancouver Tugboat Company.  I believe he retired in the 1990s and died between 1995-99.  Do you or anyone there know anything about him?

Thanks for any help you may give me

 

Sharon in Ontario rockyshores@execulink.com

Just wanted everyone to know that I have a new website.  We are excited about our new music studio and CD.  Check us out at www.DesolationSoundStudio.com.

Contributed by Stan Marshall.  Posted 01/15/10:

Happy New Year to one and all!! 

We would like to announce that due to a long hiatus we are offically starting up our 9th Ancient Mariners Dinner and Dance on July 16th and 17th 2010.

We welcome everyone who is interested in coming and we wanted to give you early warning as you plan your travel ahead in the new year.

Updates will follow in the coming year as we get closer to hosting this event, but in the short term here is what we are proposing.

On Friday July 16th at 17:00 on our farm in Oliver BC we will be having an outoor BBQ with ribeye steaks, salad etc with a live band called "Lorne Jones and the Tugs" playing music from their CD "The Tugs" plus their latest CD coming out soon about work and life on the Westcoast of BC.

There will be a licensed bar and free camping for the weekend on Stan and Rose Marshall's 7.6 acre fruit farm........plus all the cherries you can eat ;-)

We will be having  designated drivers and we will reserve some rooms at the Belaire Cedar Motel.

On Saturday July 17th we will be hosting a catered dinner at the Elks Lodge in Oliver BC starting at 17:00.

With live music and prizes generously donated by all of the marine company supporters.

For both nights we will sell tickets for drinks at $3.50 each and non alcohol drinks for $1.00 and the party starts at 17:00 for both nights and ends when you do.

Tickets are $30.00 for each night per person.

We hope to see you there and we will post updates in coming months.

Also we planning something special for the Saturday night but we are asking for photos from anyone from the past or present, whether it's a person or a boat that relates to the marine world.

You can contact Stan & Rose Marshall 250-498-4400 or Bob & Penny Martin 250-493-9428.

Thank you and hope to see you there.

Regards,

Stan Marshall

Contributed by Rick McKee.  Posted 01/04/10:

Greetings Everyone and Happy New Year! 

We hope that you have all had a peaceful and satisfying holiday and are ready to start 2010 with renewed energy.   

The log book listed 16 names at the December 09 meeting and the Christmas atmosphere was apparent by the jovial presence of our steadfast members, Jim & Diane Brown, Albert Gibson, Bill Hopkins, Tom MacLeod, Lorraine McKee and Harry Richmond, along with the winter entrance of Harry Thiessen.  Several members whom we haven't seen in a long time, namely Kim Aliprandini, Arnie Artnsen, Arnie Burchill, Mark Houston, Vic McClelland, Randy Smigel and Jack Woods came out and a new member, Shawn Gryba, a Seaspan mariner was welcomed.  We hope to see them more often during the year.  Everyone seemed to have a good time and came away with a prize, on top of the tasty lunch special served by the efficient Sawmill Pub hostess Dana.  The poinsettia that the club presented to Dana and Ron for a year of great service was much appreciated. 

There have been several changes that have been put into place for January.   During the December 09 meeting the members elected Jim Brown as the Vice President and the Secretary/Treasurer role was split up with Diane Brown enlarging her historian role to include other Secretarial duties.  We thank the Browns for taking a more active role in the club and are hopeful that they will attract more members to join in the monthly meetings.  The assets and expenses will be monitored for the time being by Lorraine McKee who has followed strict rules as Treasurer in other clubs. 

We thank everyone, including Don Medforth, Tom MacLeod, and Ian MacPherson, who has contributed to the website message page, boat gallery and odds and ends pages this year as well as the financial support that many contributed to, to keep the website going.  Thank you all for keeping in mind what the website stands for.  We hope that all those whom have requested information regarding the mariners in their families have had some contact from friends. 

There have been rumours floating around that there is going to be a 2010 Oliver Ancient Mariner's Weekend.  Although we were informed last year by the organizers Stan & Rose Marshall and Bob & Penny Martin that they were seriously contemplating the possibility of this greatly anticipated event, it was only confirmed recently that it is indeed going to happen.  There will be an official invitation coming out soon but for now you can circle July 16th and 17th, on the calendar to mark the 2010 A.M. of BC Dinner & Dance.  The organizing committee has indicated that is going to be bigger and better than ever and that Lorne and the Tugs have agreed to play again, this time with new music from their latest CD.    So they can safely say " We're baaaaaaaaaaakkkkk!!" and we will publish all details when they come. 

Once again the website is all the more interesting and current if we hear from you.   We hope that we haven't inadvertently missed or omitted anything of importance and with your assistance we can make sure that the message gets out. 

Best regards, 

Rick McKee, President

Ancient Mariners of BC, Port Kells Division.

P.S. Check out the Fanny Bay December meeting pictures in Odds & Ends

Contributed by Ian MacPherson and Posted 12/06/09:

 

Contributed by Rick McKee 11/22/09: 

Please join us on December 16th, 2009 at the Sawmill Pub for a Christmas Lunch. 

 There will be a Steak Sandwich Special available along with a few other lunch choices or you can order off the menu, as usual.  The Steak Sandwich will include mushrooms, onion rings and your choice of fries or salad, all for $8.00 taxes in.

Thank you, Ron and Dana, of the Sawmill Pub, for your continued support of providing such a great venue for our Club meetings and also for your generous spirit in your relationships with the Ancient Mariners.   You have been great!

Also Welcome to Brian Crow, River Pilot on attending his first of many, we hope, A.M. meetings.  See his picture in the Photo Album.

On a more serious note: 

After a lengthy absence from club meetings and many attempts to discover the facts of this abnormality, it has come to our attention that due to a serious illness, our Secretary/Treasurer of many years, Barb Chaplin, must step down from Club duties to pursue a path of health and wellness.

It is with appreciation of the good intentions that Barb conveyed, as she became the mainstay of the Port Kells Club when Harry Thiessen and the MacPherson's moved away, that I along with the Directors of the Club, Diane Brown Historian, Lorraine McKee Website Manager, and all Ancient Mariner Members  wish Barb the best of luck in her new endeavors.

We don't always remember that these positions are fulfilled on a voluntary basis.   Most people do not realize how much time, effort and personal funds are invested in keeping things going.  As well, the real work is mostly in the background and we only see, or don't see, the results of that dedication.  

At this time we would like to say THANK YOU to our entire volunteer executive and especially to Barb Chaplin for her service to the Ancient Mariners of BC in the past.

Rick McKee, President Port Kells Division.

DIRECTORS:

Jim Brown

Al Gibson

Bill Hopkins

Tom MacLeod

Harry Richmond

PAST PRESIDENTS:

Ian MacPherson

Harry Thiessen

 

Posted by Rick McKee 11/10/09:

Greetings Mariners,

I grew up in Lund BC in the 50s and early 60s. I saw lots of the steam tugs of the day pull into Lund for fuel, water and beer. I also got autographs from a number of crew members on some of the boats – mainly Straits Towing. I will scan these this winter if anyone is interested and send them to you.

I worked on the Strady VIII and Strady V for  Stradiotti Bros  and the JS Foley of Kingcome Navigation before joining the RCAF. I am looking for pictures of any of these boats.  Thanks.

Regards, 

 Gary Watson, Calgary

 cf104@shaw.ca

Posted by Rick McKee 11/01/09:

My father Capt. Barry Smith chose the name for this tugboat and my brothers and I attended the launch in New Westminster (with Westminster Tugs).  My father passed away approx 12 yr ago and I know there was a plaque dedicated with his name on it near the wheelhouse I think.  I would love to know if the plaque is still on the tug or where the Apache is docked so I could get a picture and some of her history.  I thought I had heard a rumour that Westminster tugs does not own her anymore.  I would be grateful for any information on my father, stories from his mates.  I know in the early 60”s he worked for Point Grey Towing and also Rivtow Straits and Westminster tugs.  I do believe that I recognized one of the names on the crew list.  Chris Stradiotti (his name seems familiar to me)  I know that many years ago we worked with Ivan Berry and also I remember the Lane family about that time as well.  At the dedication at the launch there was a man that gave me a scroll that I think someone wrote out for him and he took me outside to his car and gave it to me. I wish I could remember his name but he appeared to know my father very well,  I never had the chance to get to know my father.  Sad really&ldots;  I still have that scroll and had it laminated.  I would welcome any information.

Cheryl Kime

Financial Services Representative

Coast Capital Savings Steveston Branch

T:604 288-3387 F:604 288-3398

www.coastcapitalsavings.com

Posted by Rick McKee; 

Dear Sirs;

 I found your site on google, and hope you can help me.  I am searching for any information about my late Uncle for his Grandchildren in Australia. I am hoping you would know of any books about The Malibu Club, or Northland Navigation.  My uncle, William John Rant (Bill), was associated with Marine engineering all his life.  He was the engineer on the vessel that provided transport to the Malibu Club.  I believe it was the "Malibu Princess".    Later on I believe he was employed by Northland Navigation. He passed away in 1977 at age 69.

The names of he and his son Robert Rant (deceased) were shown on a monument that at one time stood in front of the Bayshore Inn.

I  would be most grateful if you knew of any place I could gain  knowledge of Bill Rant. 

Thank You,  

Ken Williams   604-541-1824, kenwill@shaw.ca

Posted by lucke@shaw.ca 06/03/09:

Greetings folks;

                                    I'm impressed with your site, and can readily see how you've spent a lots of Blood, Sweat & Energy putting it together.

I'm just wondering if you would have any data on the Northland Navigation ship...The M.V.Haida Prince. I sailed on her in 1966, and never have had a photo of her.

Yours Respectfully,

Lucky R. Eplett

Parksville (Vancouver Island) B.C.

email address:  lucke@shaw.ca

Posted by the MacPhersons:

 

Hi there:

So, here's the new Baby. Her name is Betsey and she is a "1981 FLH Classic". Lance found her in Kelowna and picked her up for a very nice price. Most everything is already done, dual spark plugs per cylinder which  probably means that she has been bored or stroked, sounds like there is a healthy cam but until we take her apart, that is only a guess.  She also has after market ignition with adjustable rev. limiter, 2" porker straight pipes, after Market clutch, after Market brakes and disks, 80 spoke 16" front wheel, new chrome Naucel (elephant foreskin), Evo style oil bucket, Speedo & dash, it now has apes but trust me, they are on the way out of here. With the new handle bars we will be using modern controls and buttons. The front end has been  extended about 4" but we will be bringing it back to stock so that she sits properly and will handle the way it should. It is a fun project where almost all the important (expensive) work has been done. It will be on the road in time to ride in the Spring. Between this bike and Lance's Road King, I think that my Summer will be filled with many interesting rides, can't wait.

Take care 

Igor

Posted by Kate and Pete Peters:

Posted February 22, 2009 by Rick McKee:

Just wanted to let everyone know that our call for an URGENT response to the demise of the Ancient Mariner's website has been heard! 

Through the website message and the diligent efforts by Diane Brown, to reach individuals and companies for donations, we have  been able to raise enough funds to continue the website well into the year and beyond.   Check out the latest Treasury Report to see the figures.  Many thanks to everyone for your quick and substantial support and also for coming out to the February meeting.   We're sorry to have had to miss a memorable get together.  Here are some excerpts of emails we received recently:

Hi, we missed you at Ancient Mariner’s on Feb. 18th.  A lot of people I had emailed came and brought others, and others showed up on their own.  I think there were at least 25, it was almost like the ‘old days’!

I think the Pub was happily surprised and managed to feed us all within a good time frame. Dana may have lost a few more pounds as she was really hopping!

These are ones I can remember:  Barb, Albert, Bill, Tom, Jim, Diane, Randy Smigel, Brent Biggens, Harry Thiessen, Harry Richmond, Lawrence Camire  and daughter ?, Tim & Rowena Cary, Hal Blake, Michael Blake, Jack Bishop, Jack Dixon, Lucio Fiorucci, Kait and Peter Peters, Don Rose, Kim Aliprandini, Bob Fiorillo (later Shirley came) and several others.

Ciao,  Diane

 

Hi Rick/Lorraine,

You might have heard from Harry R. that it was quite a meeting, and thanks, in no small part to Diane’s efforts in some emails and phone calls.  Generous donations were made to help pay for the website domain for a while yet, some that did not attend, some that did.  We had a good draw and we had around 25 people there by the time I had to leave. Could you please post the following to the website at the same time as the treasury?  Thanks, Barb

Hi everybody.

We had the best turnout at the meeting in Port Kells on Wednesday than we have seen in a long time, and it was good to see people that we haven’t seen in awhile along with a few attending for the first time.

As a result of putting the word out that we would have a difficult time having the ability to continue funding the website (big thanks to Diane Brown for your help with that!), we received some donations that will keep us online for approximately the next 18 months.

It’s your website and link that keeps everybody connected – please don’t hesitate to send in your messages, jokes, recipes, updates – whatever you feel might be of interest or helpful to other mariners.

Special thanks to the generous members who donated to the cause in our time of need, in no particular order, I just wrote the names down as the donations came in:

James Goodwin

Bob & Shirley Fiorillo

Tim Cary/Rowena Lucas

Jim & Diane Brown

Tom MacLeod

Albert Gibson

Harry Thiessen

Bill Hopkins

Harry Richmond

Kim Aliprandini

 

THANK YOU!!

Stay tuned on the possibility of another get-together late in the summer.

Barb Chaplin

Secretary/Treasurer

Ancient Mariners, Port Kells    

 

Posted by Rick McKee January 21, 2009:

We recently learned that Al Gibson, one of our most stalwart members and a Director of the Port Kells Club,  lost his dear wife of 56 years, Elaine Gibson, over the Christmas season.   Elaine and Al were inseparable and she accompanied Al to most of the Port Kell's Club lunches over the past few years.   A Celebration of Life will be held this spring for Elaine and her family and Barb Chaplin has kindly accepted the task of organizing the Photo Memorial for Al. 

Please join us in expressing our sincere condolences to Al and his family on the passing of a very sweet lady.   

Posted by Rick McKee January 21, 2009:

We have been informed that DON ROSE of SMIT is retiring.    There will be a gathering at 12:00 Noon on January 28, 2009 at the Paddle Wheeler Pub, on Don's behalf.  The Paddle Wheeler is located on the West side of the Westminster Quay Public Market adjacent to the Inn at the Quay. 

Check out this new website, listen to some very entertaining music and purchase some CD's.  

Those of us who have attended the Ancient Mariner's Oliver Event in the past will remember the great music that Lorne Jones and his band "The Tugs" have entertained us with.   They have released a couple of music CD's with a lot of original music, lyrics and pictures that represent the tugboat industry and now an internet site.

Very impressive website Lorne.  Congratulations!

Ya hoo, finally finished.  

If ya want to hear the songs, you will have to stop the one you are listening to by re-clicking on the speaker before listening to the next or they will over lap.

www.lornejones.com

Ell n Ell Publications

Music Publishing Co. 

Thanks Barb for updating the Treasurer's reports and also to F.R. Geta - Boudit for sending in some humour recently.  Yes, I agree.....you can't please everybody!

Posted by Ian MacPherson as forwarded by Tom MacLeod 11/18/08:

Finally I finished the "GILLKING". It was  sunny here today so I thought it would be great for taking pictures.  I don't think I did this bad with the old 35mm, but that might be just be my opinion.  Anyway, here she is.

Ian

See perspectives of Ian's impressive model building on the Odds and Ends  page

Posted by Rick McKee 10/06/08:

All things considered, it was a great summer for Lorraine and I.   After 8 weeks of working in Calgary on family business, we rewarded ourselves with a 8000 km motorcycle holiday, riding down the Oregon coast before veering east and then travelling through 5 states to Sturgis, SD. Before heading north through North Dakota to Saskatchewan and returning west through the northern States via backroads, we settled down to a very enjoyable week camping, took in a hot air balloon ride,  played chicken with some buffalo, and generally covered the best riding, restaurants, refreshments and recreation in a 100 mile radius of the Black HIlls.  Totally recommend it and in fact just might return next year to do it all over again. 

I know there are many mariners out there that are also motorcycle enthusiasts.   We are considering  organizing an Ancient Mariners get-together for next year that has a motorcycle ride attached to it.  Whether you are insured all year or will start the season again next spring, why don't you consider adding the Port Kells Mariner's lunch to a day ride and let us know if the idea of an annual ride is something that you would enjoy.

Having missed the summer meetings this year, we were brought up to date on the goings on at the Sawmill Pub at the September meeting.  Thanks to Captain Randy Smigel of Seaspan International Ltd. for coming out.  Hope he will make it a habit and bring others with him.

Thanks also to Shane and Don Medforth for their recent pictures of tug boats undergoing changes.   You'll find them at the "Boat Gallery" webpage.  Also visit the Treasurer's page for Barb Chaplin's financial report. 

   ________________________________________________________________________

Posted by Rick McKee 7/18/08:

Thanks to all who came out to the Port Kells Ancient Mariner's July 16, 2008 Lunch/Meeting at the Sawmill Pub.   It's always great to catch up on the current goings on, or share some special memories of old friends.

This month we chose new directors to join Harry Thiessen, Founder and Jim Brown, Director, from the members-at-large who have consistantly shown an interest in coming out and would like to introduce them as:

Al Gibson, Bill Hopkins, Tom MacLeod and Harry Richmond.   

As we are always in search for new energy to support the growth and longterm vitality of the club, we invite all new or seasoned marine personnel of all walks to come out and meet your counterparts from other companies or mingle with like-minded people.  

The Ancient Mariner's is not just a club for retired mariners.   Contact me with your ideas on what you would like to see up on the website, or any fundraising ideas etc.  Maintaining the website is not free.  We need your imput.  

 

Rick McKee, Ancient Mariner's Club

Port Kells Division

________________________________________________________________________

 

Posted by Stan Marshall 07/11/08:

Hello Everyone, 

As you are well aware the Okanagan Chapter will not be hosting their annual dinner and dance this year.

But for those of you that have been inquiring the Ancient Mariners Dinner and Dance will be back next year and we are already in the planning stages.

So enjoy the summer and we will keep you posted.

 Cheers,

Stan & Rose Marshall

Bob & Penny Martin

Posted by Gord Cooper 07/11/08:  Keep your eyes peeled!

Hey fellow Mariners I was hoping you could do me a favour and keep your eyes peeled for my boat. It seems someone has stolen it from Pitt Meadows Marina on June 30th. It is a 21ft CustomWeld Storm,  White with a white hardtop. Jet Boat. 350 Kodiak with Hami 212 pump. Attached are pictures.

Thanks, Gord Cooper 

riverpilot38@telus.net

PS Pass this email onto anyone you’d like! Crew on the Tugs etc&ldots;.

PSS Dan could you forward this Sean and Roland?

 

Posted by Rick McKee 07/11/08:  Can anyone pass on contact information to this party?:

1) To Whom it may concern, 

My name is Danny Hansen. I am one of five sons of Einar Hansen brother and only living kin of the late deckhand Eivind Hansen. We have been desperately looking for my father"s brother Eivind Hansen for well over a decade. Yesterday one of my brothers accidentally stumble onto your website Ancient Mariners BC/Crossing the bar and unfortunately discovered that Eivind Hansen past away on April 4, 2006. Well our search may have tragically ended but it has left us now wondering what happened to Eivind Hansen. If anyone within your organization has any information that could shed some light into Eivind's death we would very much appreciate hearing from them. Please find below my direct contact info.

 Kind regards

 Danny Hansen 

director of hsbcad north america

hsbCAD north america

5375 pare street, suite 201, Montreal, qc, Canada, h4p 1p7 

tel: 514-341-2028 x 243 fax: 514-341-8856 cell 514-248-0099

visit us at : www.hsbCAD.com 

2) dear sie

around 10 years ago i lost contact with my brother eivind hansen. it is first now i found out that he passed away some 2 years ago.i am writing you in the hopr that you can bring me in contact with someone who can inform me regarding the circumstances surrounding his pass away.

on beforehand thankyou for your help  einar hansen

Posted by Rick McKee 05/08/08  Can anyone pass on contact information to this party?:

Good morning 

I have found the name  of an old friend iof mine in your "crew list". His name is Hugo Eikanger.

Is it possible to have his e-mail adress, so i can get in contact with him again ?

We sailed together on seismic vessel "Bin Hai", around 1992.

Regards & Thanks 

Chief Engineer Kjell Vestnes

N7580 Selbu, NORWAY

E-mail. kjellvestnes@gmail.com

Posted by Rick McKee 05/08/08:

Over an eight year period, Seaspan engineer Glen Titerle has create 7" cast, white metal, model tugboats of the Seaspan Navigator.  Scale is 1/49th.  There has been very few made, can be painted to match tugboats of the same style and are priced at $200.  Fine detail includes tow line. 

Contact Glen @ 604 824 8978 or email thetees@shaw.ca for more information.

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