http://www.theolympian.com/2010/11/09/14...ylink=mirelated

I don't know what in the way of emergency equipment this poor soul had on him. Some of the initial reports seemed to indicate that he didn't have much. One has to wonder if the outcome would have been different if he had carried fire making supplies and some emergency heat sheets or bivy or even the sportsman's space blanket along with some good rain gear. This wasn't from lack of food and probably not even water, however a hot cup of tea undoubtedly would have helped.

Fifty years of experience in those woods and still got lost. That's sobering. Great that he was still getting out at that age and pursuing his sport.

Thanks for the link.


He has hunted in the area for 50 years and is described as “wood-smart,” the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office said.

Actually it would be fairly easy to get turned around in a lot of areas there, it’s very very thick and dense, and with the weather he was lost in, it could be pretty hard to get a visual landmark, definitely an area to carry a map and compass in and know how to use them as well as paying attention to where you are before getting lost.

I'm wondering if he had a heart attack or something. It seems odd that he was on the radio, then no response, then they find him the next day basically dead.

-john

Sad story, but when I get old I'd much rather pass away like him than in a hospital bed.



Certainly a possibility.



Maybe a bit odd, but perhaps not so much if you take into consideration all kinds of trouble you can have with radio communication, in particular if you're away from totally flat terrain.

For all we know, he might even have turned off the radio to save batteries.

Right, but it was one night if I understand correctly. Without some rapid type of incapacitation (health or a fall), or some other sudden onset issue (falling into a stream) it seems like he could have survived the first night.

Of course, we rarely are supplied with details, so hard to say.

-john

Izzy:

That is one of the most intelligent and forthright statements I have ever read on this forum. Thanks for taking the time to post your thoughts.

I live about 70 miles from Humptulips. The weather here has been awful, pouring rain and almost down to freezing. In those conditions, even a younger, healthy person can die pretty fast. And if he was dehydrated, or injured, or fell into water, all would contribute.

At least they found him, which is more than can be said for others.

Sue

Given his age I'd say he had a good run and went out doing something he loved.

I he nailed it:


I worked in a hospital and while they do a lot of good work if the family demands they "do everything" the extent of the treatments can be little better than slow torture.

Cold and alone in the woods is not ideal. But it beats being strapped down, terrified and in pain for weeks. Dying in fear, surrounded only by machines.

I saw people have a 'good death' in the hospital also. Awake, aware, without pain. Slipping away quietly surrounded by friends and family.