Tragedy Strikes Close to Home

Kevin O'Connor was a close friend of RT's. He was one of our groomsmen in our wedding. Kevin and RT go way back. They were roommates and colleagues when they worked with the US Forest service on the owl crew. They also shared a few classes and professors when they were taking their graduate courses. Kevin got hired on with Fish & Game first, and not long afterwards, RT landed a full-time, permanent position as well.

It was such shocking and devastating news when we heard about the helicopter crash on January 5. The other two biologists, Clu and Tom, were colleagues that RT knew as well. My heart aches for their wives, children, and family. Nothing can prepare them for their unexpected death, and nothing can alleviate their pain and sorrow. I know these men will be remembered for many things that they have contributed in both their personal and professional lives.