Man I have a heavy heart today. Pete Romano, our Hacklebarney brother, was laid to rest this morning.
Pete was all business on the water! Success!
It seems that Pete passed away in his sleep last Thursday night from what was thought to be an aneurism. There are no positives here, but at least Pete went peacefully.
This was a great guy. He was a quirky and fun. He helped quite a few of us become better fishermen. I know for a fact that John Eng, Mike Russo and I all fished with Pete, and came away having learned new skills.
Pete was also a great tyer. At the one fly contest last year at the Raritan Inn, Pete tied a Hare's Ear faster than anyone. He did it under a minute, and took the top prize. An impressive feat for anyone.
Pete with Hacklebarney friends on the spring Beaverkill trip
Pete, you were a valued member of our chapter and we miss you already. I really cant think of anything more apropos than to use the following Grateful Dead quote from Brokedown Palace...
Going home, going home
By the waterside I will rest my bones
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
To rock my soul
Going to plant a weeping willow
On the banks green edge it will grow grow grow
Sing a lullaby beside the water
Lovers come and go, the river roll roll roll
Fare you well, fare you well
I love you more than words can tell
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
To rock my soul
Until we meet again Pete, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. You'll be missed.