James Ernest Dykes passed away July 7, 2013.  One of his requests was that in lieu of flowers, donations were to be sent to Anglers for Conservation. I did not know of Mr. Dykes until donations began hitting our account on his behalf.  I did have the opportunity to speak to his daughter Meme. 

Meme told me of a waterman, who shared his love of the water and angling with his family.  I was told of a man who had set up scholarships for disadvantaged youth.  I was told of a man who was concerned about our waterways and the importance of being involved with nature on a personal level.  When speaking to his daughter I envisioned Mr. Dykes volunteering at our events and helping kids get excited about fishing. 

We’re honored that Mr. Dykes thought enough of AFC to ask for his friends and family to support us.  We’re sad that we did not have the opportunity to get to know him and wish his family God’s peace in these trying times. We promise to be good stewards of his donation to help protect the waterways he loved so much.