If I die before I wake...

Upon my death, I wish to be cremated and have my ashes scattered around several places: A little thrown off of the cliff we dive off at Beaver Lake in Arkansas where I first developed my love for adventure, facing your fears and flying through the air to then fall into water. A little sprinkled into the ocean at Waialua, Hawaii on the north shore of O'ahu, (in the back of 68-167 Au Street, to be specific), where I found such peace in my heart once. A bit mixed in some gas or oil to be used in my Harley - I hope one or more of my children will take my '71 Sportster for a symbolic ride when I'm gone - so I can "ride" one last time. And a very small amount to be added to a joint of good stuff, and smoked among my friends, those who wish to, that is, at my funeral. You know what I mean.. a teensy tiny "half-pinch", more symbolic than literal. I just think it would be way cool to have my friends smoke a bit of me after I'm gone. Maybe mix the rest in some paint and everyone could add a stroke or three to one or more paintings created right then and there at the funeral. Everyone should always take time to create art.

There are several places I would enjoy having some of me sprinkled around.. probably too many to make it actually possible - some at the base of Trish's old house in 1973 where her basement figured prominently in my "development". A little bit in the Arkansas river by Wichita North High's canoe launch area, where many times were spent either planning, or getting into, trouble..., it would be appropriate for more to be scattered around some of the trails in Oak Park, as some of my earliest 8mm film work was done, as well as much of my earlier "chemical experimentation" was held. I'm sure that as I think of more locations, I will add them here soon.

I'd like music to be played (recorded or live.. or both, whatever) at any service that might be held. I'll work on a playlist.. (I actually had a great one started while I was in Hawaii but can't locate it now.)

I will compose a short letter to be read at my funeral. Some final words, thoughts, etc.

I would very much prefer that no religious stuff take place at my funeral - no lords prayer, no singing of "Peace in the Valley", etc. as I do not like that part of any funeral service. Propaganda if you ask me, spread when folks are at their most vulnerable. This part may ruffle the feathers of some in attendance, but they'll get over it, I'm sure.

I'd LOVE a good old-fashioned wake! With laughter and smiles and a good party damnit. :)

When I think of more desires to add here I will do so.

07/31/2011 - I want Harry Scott Shimp to be there.
06/23/2012 - I now know that he will be. In Spirit.
07/07/2015 - He is with me now. And always.
02/05/2019 - Rox. Someone please inform Roxanne of my passing (if she hasn't already died before me). Mahalo.