I think I feel as depressed as I ever have in my life. One of my best friends died today. I know our relationship was unusal because he was 83 and I am 32 but he was a monsterous influence on my life. He was the one who inspired me to hunt. His stories about deer hunting in the old days made me want to go.

When I got old enough too hunt. He was my teacher. He told me almost unbelievable things about deer and coyote habits, which as I got older proved to be unbelievable truths. I can say without him I would never be the hunter I am.

He was not related and had no family tie but he want to teach me everything about the outdoors(hunting and fishing). Do any of you have or had an influence like my friend Cotton? I'd like to hear about them.

Sorry to hear about that.

Sorry for your loss.

Let me start off by saying I am truly here for you if you need anything. A little over 3 months ago I lost my father. My old man taught me everything I know about the woods, deer, mother nature and most importantly, about life. I really do know how your feeling and if you need ANYONE to talk to please do not hesitate to PM me. My mom always said everything happens for a reason and I'm sure he's in a better place(both my father and Cotton). I know its hard as hell and it's prolly gonna get a little tougher. Hang in there,just takea walk in the woods, sit in a tree, sit under a tree, just do whatever you gotta do to talk to him.It will feel like he's right there beside you!!

Once again I'm sorryto hear that.
Russ

Hang inthere ihunt1975 we all have to go through this in life and its a bummer. I lost a good freind in Sept. 07 and he left a wife, son 12 and daughter 10. I took his son out during the youth deer hunting season and there's not a lot I can teach him that his dad didnt already do. He really enjoyed our hunt and I was glad to hunt with him. I hope that someday I will meen asmuch to him as Cotton did to you. Im very soory about your lose.

if you like to read read the book "tuesdays with Morrie" By Mitch Albom, actually if you dont like to read...it is still a good read. It is a book you will be able to relate with i think. I will be praying for you and your friends and his family, I hope you can find comfort in this time...
-Jake

Im really sorry about that... I also have a friend like yours, but not as different in the ages. He's my best friend and he has shown me everything I know. My dad never hunted so before I met him I never went. Now I'm obssessed.

Sorry for your loss.. But be thankful you had him while you did..

I am sorry for your loss, I had an old friend that past away on me last fall. He taught me alot as well as I had taught
him as well. He also showed me alot about tracking wounded game that will stick with me forever. So I know what you
are saying and that the best thing you can do is remember what he taught you and try and pass it on for future generations
to come. In that way his dream of sharing the hunting and fishing stories will never die. It also helps keep the fine art of
hunting alive. Take care and best of luck getting through this..

JH I kow its tuff to loose someone close to you..I lost my best friend ..my mother in 1988..but as they say time does heal all ...you will never forget him as you shoulden't but as time goes on you will have a life time of good memories to help you throughI think that is one reason GOD gave us memories was to help us through these times... and you will be able to pass them on to your children ..just remember he is never REALLY gone as long as you have him in your heart.

dd