Joanie:
Have not seen you all for some time, but was saddened to hear the news of Shawn’s death. Wow. The reality of it all really hit me and Annie as well. We are both very sad. We got your Christmas card and I just found myself bawling. You are in our prayers.
I must admit that the first time I met Shawn he really ticked me off. I think Dillon said it best that he was the ultimate button pusher. I was easy game for him. We met through our common friend Brian Monssen at a “touch” football game that soon turned to tackle then nearly fights. We were all just out of college and thought we were bad. It was the typical whirlwind of emotion that always accompanied my early times with Shawn. Over the years we fashioned a respect and then a friendship. We shared many milestones: his meeting and love for you Joanie, the wedding, kids, new years eve parties and fishing openers at Mitch Olson’s cabin. I remember that first fishing opener when he showed up all geared up to the hilt. A fancy vest with the fur you keep your lures on, special sunglasses, three custom rigs and a tackle box as big as a Volkswagen. It was Zen and the Art of Fishing by Shawn Somerville. I think he was sponsored by Cabelas or something. Of course he got put in my boat. “The amateur” with a borrowed rod and no clue. At first I think it frustrated him to be out with a hack, but soon we were giggling ( and yes that was quite a giggle ) and talking about EVERYTHING. We always had great and spirited conversations. I can’t remember if we caught a fish, but I remember the good times with my friend Shawn Somerville.
Mike Schrader
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