Debby,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. And of the loss to all who knew and cared about Dave.
I never met Dave. Indeed, I don't believe I ever had a single direct interaction with him. However, by creating and hosting this site, he profoundly touched my life, and made it immeasurably better. For that, I will always be grateful to him.
I know you've probably heard it from many other people...how the generous sharing of information by people here created a remarkable, (and remarkably drama-free...usually
) virtual community. And how, for many of us, that virtual community evolved into lasting friendships. Including friendships that have migrated into our "real life" both in and outside of Glacier.
I probably would not have taken the life-changing, world-opening plunge into solo backpacking in 2013 had it not been for the inspiration I found in people's stories and pictures here. Nor would I have benefitted from the company of the other Chatters I have been blessed to share both front- and backcountry trail time with. How much sweeter a piece of Pie for Strength pie, or a Merc huckleberry bear claw is when devoured with (or delivered to) another Chatter! And a meal at Eddie's or Serranos or Two Med Grill is always more satisfying when it is enjoyed over stories with people who you know "get" this crazy love we have for that amazing landscape.
So thank you, Dave. And thank you, Debby. I am your debt.
Although I have admittedly been much less active on this site in recent years, it makes me very sad to think of it being shut down. In addition to the loss of existing and potential future community, it seems like a horrible waste for all the wonderful trip reports, useful trail information, inspiring photos, and other travel resource tips to simply be lost into the ether. I do hope that someone will be found who can continue hosting the site and carry on Dave's legacy here.
In the interim, I am ashamed to admit that it has been a few years since I have renewed my donation to this site. So, today I will be sending a donation to Debby via the paypal she referenced above, and I hope that a bunch of others will too so that we can at the very least help offset the costs Dave's family has incurred over the years in hosting this place, and maybe, just maybe help buy Debby a little time to find a new host...
In peace and gratitude,
Joyce