In July I had the privilege of helping fulfill a final wish of my good buddy Harley Hudgens. In August of 2008, Harley was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He knew his prognosis was not good but he remained the pragmatist he's always been. He often expressed his wish to be buried at sea; in his words, he wanted to be "fish food". He felt that was a natural and fitting final disposition. He researched the laws and was able to locate a funeral home near his Palm Desert, CA home that was willing to handle the arrangements. He was also able to locate a charter boat company in Santa Barbara, CA that was willing to perform the burial duties. As his condition worsened he was consoled by the fact that he would have the final resting place he wanted.
Harley died on July 4, 2009. On Wednesday July 15th I accompanied his daughter Nikki to the Marina in Santa Barbara where I helped load his casket aboard the charter boat. Once under way, we headed to a location about 12 miles off the coast. After a brief and simple ceremony Harley was returned to the elements. While it was a sad occasion, we were pleased about the fact that we were able to fulfill Harley's last wish.
As we get older, we're not only reminded of our own mortality, we're confronted with the mortality of our family and friends. As we lose those closest to us, we're inclined to reflect on the influence they had on our lives. When a friend or relative dies, I'm often consoled by the fact that my life was enriched by their presence and so it is with Harley. I will miss the lively discussions, the frequent e-mails and the visits but I won't dwell on what I've lost; life's too short. Instead, I'll dwell on the good fortune of a cherished friendship.
Harley Hudgens
1939 - 2009