Posted on February 21, 2010 - by Morgan Howard
Capt. Phil: A Celebration of Life
Discovery Channel hosted a memorial service for Capt. Phil’s family and friends today. It was an event most agreed Phil would have loved. F/V Cornelia Marie crew members flew in from the Bering Sea to join former crew members and other Bering Sea captains. Many of the “Deadliest Catch” boat captains were in attendance to pay their respects to their friend and fellow fisherman. The Alaska Crab fishing fleet is close knit and many fishermen know each other.
Everyone always said Phil enjoyed “playing with his toys”, so it was fitting to have a beautiful Harley Davidson in the corner. On the walls hung many images of Capt. Phil and the Cornelia Marie crew.
After some words from Josh, Jake and other close friends and family, Discovery showed a specially edited video highlighting the best of Capt. Phil. The video was very well done, narrated by Mike Rowe himself.
One of the most emotional speeches was from Todd Stanley, long time Cornelia Marie camera person. Todd spent “hundreds of hours” and “hundreds of days” side by side in the wheelhouse with Phil. During that time, Todd and Phil became very close friends. Crew members even described their relationship like “an old married couple”. When Phil had to leave because of a blood clot two years ago, Todd was there. When Phil had a stroke and was medivacked to Anchorage, Todd was again there by his side. Todd was assigned to cover the Skipper as his job, but came away with a good friend and years of great memories.
Thank you to Todd and all the other “Deadliest Catch” camera operators. It’s a difficult job with little recognition. Learn more about Todd here.
This was a private memorial for friends and family, but many of you have followed Capt. Phil and the Cornelia Marie since the beginning and are like extended family… so I wanted to share a little of this day with you. Thank you to everyone who has sent in beautiful letters, emails and comments.
A public memorial will most likely be held during the annual “CatchCon” hosted by Discovery.
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February 26, 2010
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Pedro Cassola said:
Well , here in Portugal , we watch the deadliest catch with a year delay so it’s being hard to watch the Captain everyday knowing he’s watching too , by our side !! We really think that you’re the one Mr Harris !!! In portuguese now – És o maior e continuarás nos nossos corações Capitão !!!
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February 26, 2010
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Sharry Busch said:
Captain Phil……you will be dearly missed! Josh and Jake, be proud of your Dad and know that he was loved my many. We join you in your sorrow and wish only the best for your future and the Cornelia Marie. Stay strong!!!!!!
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February 26, 2010
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Mark McDonald said:
There’s not much to say. His fans were just that, fans. Most of us he didn’t know and probably didn’t even realize just how many of us there were. But he was worthy of each and every one plus some. To many of us (his fans) Captain Harris and his crew were more like friends, their well intentioned fooling around or family like squabbling as part of the back ground noise just made them seem more like family. You almost half expect one of them to turn the corner of the room you’re in and engage you in the argument.
When the sun goes down at the end of the day we feel like we know you. We choose to tune in and watch or simply listen as we do the things we must to end our day. To us it feels more like inviting all of you in for a bite to eat before you have to make your way further down the road.
We’re going miss Phil at our table. I hope that somehow, someway he understands that and knows how grateful we were to have those times when all of you could join us… yes, even you Mike.
Mark McDonald
Kennesaw, Ga
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February 26, 2010
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Liz Towell said:
My prayers are with the crew, Capt. Phil’s dad and his sons, Josh & Jake.
It’s hardest on the one’s still here.
At least Phil won’t be suffering anymore. I think it would of been life’s cruel joke if Phil had survived and was never allowed to go back on the cornelia marie for health reasons.
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February 26, 2010
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Tom said:
Spoczywaj w pokoju Phil… :( Byles wielkim czlowiekiem.
Rest in peace Phil … :(
You were a great man.
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February 27, 2010
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carly said:
I have to agree with those who said it felt like many of the DC folks are a member of extended family, never felt that way about a show before, drama tv or reality tv and I’m 34 years old. Can’t quite explain it but I really do care about the DC guys and the passing of Phil has hurt a lot, and I keep thinking about his boys and hoping they will be ok and find the stregnth they need, when and where and how they need it. I lost my father when I was 16 so I can relate.
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February 27, 2010
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Robyn Kern said:
“Dear Lord,
be good to me…
The sea is so wide
and my boat is so small.”
Irish Fishermans Prayer
Godspeed to you Josh and Jake, your Dad was a great man!
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February 27, 2010
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Kim said:
While people are here we don’t always tell them how we feel. Tell them while they are alive…Let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, savor you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may for it will not always be so. One day I shall dig my nails into the earth or bury by face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want more than all the world your return. Phil I will miss you
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February 28, 2010
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Vladimir said:
Жаль мужика.
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February 28, 2010
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rob said:
saddened to hear of Captain phils passing. Always been my favourite boat on the show, because of his special relationship with his crew and especially Josh and Jake. I hope Discovery continue to film the Cornelia Marie, i think that would be a fitting way to continue to hold Phils memory close.
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February 28, 2010
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Annemieke said:
I was a litte bit shocked to hear that Capt. Phil Harris has passed away. He was my favorite captain on the series.
Thanks for all the great fishing stories on the Cornelia Marie. The show will never be the same. Phil, we will miss you.
My thoughts are with Jake en Josh, family, crew and friends.
A big fan from the Netherlands
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February 28, 2010
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Sally Harriman said:
We will miss Phil tremendously. After watching the series from the beginning we have come to think of him as a friend, a regular guy… In spite of his “gruffness”, u could see his true nature in his eyes. Looking at his eyes you could almost see into his soul.. he was a man who cared deeply about things and treasured his family and friends.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. I believe that Phil’s spirit will be out on the Bering Sea whenever the guys are out there, watching over them and giving them strength when they need it.
God wanted him for something special, may he rest in Peace..
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March 1, 2010
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wendylee hancock said:
”may the long time sun shine pon u and guide yor way home” thorts r with the harris family and their extended family and friends, hope u find peace soon xox
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March 1, 2010
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Lisa and Chris said:
Phil was such an inspiration about how we all should have passion for what we do with our lives. He was a great example of what is important, working hard, loving your family and friends and having fun. Our hearts go out to all who loved him. May he rest in peace.
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March 2, 2010
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dean said:
R.I.P CAPT PHIL HARRIS YOU WERE A GREAT GUY
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March 2, 2010
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Billie Ann Brown said:
Words cant say how bad my heart broke when i found out Phil is gone. The show, and life its self with never be the same without him. He will always live in our heart. Rest in peace big guy..
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March 2, 2010
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Jörg Meyer said:
Er war der Beste, FRIEDE SEINER SEELE. Alles Gute seiner Familie, mein Mitgefühl.
Lg. Jörg
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March 2, 2010
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Phil said:
only got the News of captain Phils passing today.
words cant describe how I feel.
You guys even though you don’t know us or will ever meet us are almost like family.
We all feel in some small way your pain in the passing of your dad and captain.
The Cornelia Marie , your Dad , its crew and you are legends !
“This aint no hamburger stand this is the real deal”
To a true legend My respects to captain Phil!
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March 3, 2010
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madalena said:
To Jake and Josh and the Cornelia Marie Crew and the crew of Discovery Channel. It was a pleasure to see Your father, friend, and collegue throughout the years. Capt. Phil was an exceptional person. You should be very proud of your father. He was very proud of both of you boys. Although you will go on with your lives, remember that he will always be with you. When you are in disagreement with eachother, think about what your father would of wanted. It will most definitely be hard to continue on this journey without him. Be strong, Be confident in knowing that he loved you both more than life itself. Take care of eachother. Rest Peacefully Capt. Phil, and thank you for the many years of allowing us to be apart of the Cornelia Marie.
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March 4, 2010
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Donna said:
I was just shocked to hear of Phil’s passing. I only heard while talking to friends @ work who also watch. I enjoyed watching the Cornelia Marie. His interaction with his crew, sons and camera crew were at times humorous as well as provocative. Josh and Jake – please know that your father is looking down on you. My heart felt wishes go to you and your family and the rest of the crew on the Cornelia Marie. You will always be my favorite.
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March 4, 2010
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stacey brown said:
we love deadliest catch. but Capt. Phil Harris and the crew of the Cornelia Marie stole our hearts. I was at work and someone said a capt on the show had died…my heart sank. i instantly thought no not Capt Phil….i am so sorry for the grief in your hearts….. though we will never meet,the show has brought us together as, i cried tears from my heart for the passing of your dear father,husband,friend and Skipper….safe journey Capt Phil Harris to calm seas full of her bounty for you to forever bathe in her glory
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March 4, 2010
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Ron Williams said:
Several of Captain Phil’s closest friends and fishing partners got together in Astoria, OR.to reminisce about the years they spent fishing side by side with him. It was awsome. The tribute DVD will soon be available. Put your request in by e-mailing [email protected]
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March 5, 2010
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Liz Cant said:
i only found out about Phil Harris last night(see post Date)i live in the uk and am waiting for season 6 part one on Discovery it will be hard to watch Phil nknowing that he is gone to Josh,Jake and the crew of the Cornelia Marie you have my condolances to Captain Phil may you sail in calmer seas.
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March 5, 2010
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Fabi said:
i come from germany and i watch deadliest catch every day.phil was a good man i hope the family are healthy.and good luck to the crew have a nice catch!
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March 5, 2010
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Stojan said:
R.I.P. Phil. We will always remember you.
Stojan from SLOVENIA,Europa
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March 5, 2010
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brenda said:
Captain Phil,
You were truly a great man and so damn fun to watch! You were our favorite captain and we enjoy Deadliest Catch, it will NEVER be the same without you and your personality! Bless you and your family. RIP
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March 6, 2010
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Denise said:
To the family of Capt. Phil, I am sorry for your loss and I hope you know the loss is felt around the world. Josh and Jake always remember your dad gave you the most precious thing he had so you would never be without him, his love. Carry his love in your hearts as he carried you both in his. Know he will always be with you. I as many others will support and understand your decisions as you move forward. To the crew and all the other Captains and crews I know you lost more than just a friend and We will be thinking of you all. Captain Phil we will see you again one day and we can all go fishing again so rest for now and know you were loved and you are missed by so many.
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March 7, 2010
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Robin.C said:
Wow I was very shocked and saddened to hear that Captain Phil of the Cornelia Marie had passed away.My thoughts and prayers are with Jake and Josh.The show will never be the same.He will be truly missed.I hope jake and Josh will carry on with everything their dad thought them.The memories you have,you’ll always carry them in your heart.I love that show,you your dad and Josh their were funny and not so funny moments.I wish you guys the best of luck in the future.
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March 7, 2010
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Ken said:
I am a United States Marine and the guys and I love the show and Captain Phil Harris. He is a very admorable and respectable man. A true leader and amazing all around guy. He has touched our hearts and will forever remain there.
I enjoyed watching the show when I was overseas after a long day. Yes, I had a small portable DVD player and in the middle of the desert I’d watch the show. I could never have done what that man did for so many years. His passion for his craft made him an amazing person to watch. The show will not be the same. I hope that Jake and Josh continue with the Cornelia Marie, the ship needs a Harris behind the wheel.
Fair winds, and safe sailing to you, sir. Thank you Captain Phil
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March 7, 2010
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reece bourne said:
Just got back from my 3months Vacation to discover this devestating news. favorite series and favorite captain. looking forward so much for the launch of the new series in April especaily to see Capt Phil,and jake and josh. now never gonna see more of Phil. emmencely sad! will miss you always Phil rest in peace to a dear father and wonderful person. :’-( you will be missed by millions.
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March 7, 2010
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colly, n.ireland said:
i watched deadliest catch with a passion and loved watching cornelia marie doing what she does best. phil will be missed dearly, he was a great man, to all of his family you should be proud of phil. god bless you all. R.I.P capt. phil
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March 7, 2010
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Robin Gray said:
Sorry to hear about Phil’s passing.
He will be sadly missed. Everytime I watch the show I will think of Phil.
His sons can always look back and think
of all the good times they had with there Dad.
I know I lost my dad two years ago
So I look back and see all the good
times I had with my dad.
My God be with you guys.
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March 8, 2010
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mike h. said:
My father was a tugboat skipper in New York Harbor from 1928 till he had to retire on medical (stroke) in 1974. I remember riding on the boats with him, out of high school and the times we had when he would “cut it up” with the crew.
Also I had a grandfather who was a master of ships sailing under the english flag. He came to the usa at the turn of the 20th century and was a tug captian in New York Harbor.
Had I worked in the business our family name would have been in the harbor for 100 years.
I loved this show because it reminded me of my father.
Rest in peace.
I lost my dad to at an early age of 64.
Only memories.
I feel bad for your family.
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March 8, 2010
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mike h. said:
We commend to you, our Heavenly Father, all whose lives are linked with the sea and all who serve their needs.
Grant that in all things they may give of their best and never be disheartened. Grant that in the fury of the storm,
and in the calm of the harbor they may ever be directed by your power within. Grant the assurance that, with
your hand on the wheel, they may safely sail life’s stormy seas until at last they reach the haven of your peace.
Grant that their loved ones, as they watch and wait, may know the strength and comfort of your presence, and
the joy of happy reunions. Bless them all according to their several needs, and keep them in all dangers and
temptations; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
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March 9, 2010
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Ben Larson said:
We all mourn the loss of captain phill i work on the great lakes a deckhand an we watched you an the cornelia with great intent it is in the traditon of the great lakes i honor you with the great lakes Formal Horn Salute 3longblasts an 2 short blasts to ya captain phill you will be missed
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March 9, 2010
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Seo Outsourcing said:
So inspiring! We would like to extend our deep appreciation with your achievements, we in the seo outsourcing industry are glad about it.
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March 9, 2010
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Raquel R. said:
Phil Harris was one of the main reasons i watch Deadliest Catch on the Discovery Channels. Its not going to be the same anymore. But life goes on and so does the fishing.
My condolence to the boys, Jake and Josh and the rest of the family but also to the crew of the Cornelia Marie who have worked with Phill for so many years. As you go out and continue your jobs, may he guide you and protect you. May you sence his presence there, knowing that he is watching over his crew.
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March 9, 2010
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Igor said:
We will miss you, Phill.
Russia
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March 9, 2010
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Amy T Wade said:
God grant that I may live to fish
Until my dying day.
And when it comes to my last cast
I then most humbly pray
When in the Lord’s safe landing net
I am peacefully asleep,
That in His mercy I be judged
As big enough to keep.
RIP Captain
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March 11, 2010
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Greg Hirko said:
God bless you (Capt)Phil and his family Jake/and Josh stay strong.May your dad sore like a seagull keeping one eye on land and one on fellow fisherman God bless.
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March 11, 2010
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Shoki said:
Only heard today that phil had passed, a great loss to all, he was one of the best in the show along with sig. It will be strange to watch the new season but I can see him looking down with a can of rb in one hand and a smoke in the other.
Condolences from Scotland
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March 11, 2010
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Kevin said:
I have thought about what I would say here for quite a while. One of the things about The Deadliest Catch that makes it such a hit is the way you get to know the people. I feel like I’ve know Phil most of my life, his tuff captain side, his prankster side, and most of all his loving, proud father side. Phil was loved by people he never met, but by people that knew him anyway. Rest well Skipper. Rest well.
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March 12, 2010
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Joel said:
RIP Captain Phil
an inspiration to all that take to the sea in all capacities
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March 12, 2010
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Wayne Scrivens said:
To the caps sons & crew he was a good man keep a big shoulder and power on to keep his legacy alive he will be largly missed by many and would be proud of you god bless
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March 12, 2010
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kayleigh armstrong said:
Hi, Oh my god, iv only just found out about capt Phil, absolutly gutted!! cant stop crying! he was fab and obviously a great father and friend. you will be missed by all your fans in the UK. xxx
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March 12, 2010
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Marsha Hamilton said:
My heart is broken at the loss of such a fine man. Humor, family,guts, determination,grit,fun,playfulness,role-model, the list goes on. I will miss Captain Phil with all my heart. Love and Best wishes to his family,crew, and friends. REST IN PEACE,CAPTAIN, WE WILL ALL MISS YOU!
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March 12, 2010
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Phil said:
Just wathched series 5 again on Discovery uk.
Still cant belive Big Phil has gone
A legend!!
“this aint no hambuger stand this is the real deal”
Sleep well BIG MAM!
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March 13, 2010
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Jim Parkhurst said:
With so many things in this world being faked, watching DC was to watch something that was real. These were not staged events the emotions were real the danger real. To have been able to share life with them as they worked and lived in front of the camera was special and bless all those that helped in making the show.
To the sons, you were blessed to have had the chance to work and learn from your father. Live life in his honor and be joyous in the times you shared with him as a father, boss and friend.
Thanks you Mike Rowe for bringing this real glimpse of life in the worlds most dangerous job. Sometimes you have to bleed to know your alive. We bleed in our loss of a real American.
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March 14, 2010
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Anna maie hall said:
I’ll miss seen you on the deadliest catch. your one of a kind. So God Bless all of you guys.
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March 16, 2010
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David Rohwer said:
Having lived in Alaska from 1972-1975 in the military, i know the conditions and climate Phil and the other boat captains go through in the fishing season. It’s a big challenge every day in the winter to over come mother nature.He was a great boat captain and will be missed by everyone.God bless your family Phil.