November 10th, 2006
Marc, a valued friend and mentor, passed away last week. Marc Champagne and his wife Kit had pretty much done it all, sledded for thousands of miles, camped in remote places and generally lived the life all us city slickers only dreamed of. He would tell you what worked and what didn't and leave it up to you to go from there. His knowledge and experience further drove his enthusiasm but it was tempered with humility and kindness. I met Marc and Kit some 15 or more years ago now. They were always amazed I was running Malamutes and only two at that. With big smiles on their faces they always encouraged and cheered me on. In the late 80's he was teaching sledding classes for Continueing Education. I helped by bringing my sleds and occassionaly a malamute for class. At the end of the course he would have everyone meet at Maclean Creek for a sled ride. Some other mushers would be there and we'd have quite a show! Here are a few photos from that time ...
The class listening to the guru. The racing sled and classic toboggan
Getting ready to run!
And off Marc goes with a team of six and a class member in the basket!
Kit leading out a team of four and Marc heading out with another passenger.
His dogs grew old and his and my life changed some five, six years ago and so we had not seen each other for some time. The loss was a shock. I still don't know what to do with it. The lead photo of Marc and the following tribute is from his Memorial service card. It can't be improved upon ... farewell my friend.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints
on the snow;
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken
in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars
that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.
