Dale Wheaton in his prime…cigar in one hand, fish in the other.
I got a text last night from Maine. One of my favorite fishing guides at Wheaton Lodge in Forrest City passed away this week. Dale Wheaton was an original—local born, raised among fishermen and problem solvers; he went to teach economics in the off-season at the University of Maine and guided, cigar in hand, at his lodge for 30-plus years. For every story I could tell, Dale had 20 plus more. His books were entertaining and full of plain old common sense. Dale guided my kids and grandchildren along with my buddy Andy. He established the Wheaton Trust and introduced me to the important work the Trust does in preserving the northern Maine wilderness. We will miss you, Dale. I am reminded of our last visit over the summer with you tipping your hat to me, one emblazoned with “Ackerman Partners.” Yes, Dale, we will always be partners.