Posted on February 27, 2010 - by Morgan Howard
The Future of the Cornelia Marie
The season premiere of “Deadliest Catch” will be April 13, 2010. This will be the sixth season of the “Deadliest Catch” and the fifth season that the “Cornelia Marie” has been featured on the show. The television crew from Original Productions boards our boat during the fall for King Crab season and then in January to videotape the Opilio Season. They videotaped the King Crab season on board with Capt. Phil and the crew. In fact, the King Crab season included a “near collision” of the F/V Cornelia Marie and the chase boat.
Up to and through the passing of our skipper, the Discovery Channel cameras have been rolling. The cameras were present in the hospital with Capt. Phil and up to the end. The cameras then accompanied much of the activity in the weeks following, up to the private memorial for Capt. Phil on February 21st. We don’t know how Discovery will choose to edit the show. It’s true that Phil allowed the cameras into his hospital room after surgery. While still recovering from surgery, Phil was unable to talk so he wrote a note to keep shooting, because “we need a great finish to this story”. I actually thought one week after the stroke that he indeed was going to make a great recovery. As a boy coming of age on Alaska fishing boats, I always thought of skippers as rather indestructible.
According to the show producer Thom Beers, whether any of the hospital footage will air will be a decision made later with Phil’s family. I think that is the right decision and really the only appropriate way to go.
Most likely the cameras will be present at the beginning of the next King Crab opening in October to videotape Phil’s ashes being scattered into the Bering Sea. Whether the Discovery Channel wishes to follow the Cornelia Marie through the remainder of the King Crab season and the Opilio season will be up to them. Of course, the F/V Cornelia Marie is a fishing boat and needs to keep on working. Appearing on the TV show doesn’t pay the bills, only bringing crab aboard does that. We were fishing before the TV show and we’ll be fishing after the TV show.
Many have asked us if Jake and Josh will continue fishing. It’s too soon to tell. As part owners of the boat, they would always have that choice. Many have also asked if Josh or Jake will now take over as Captain. The job of skipper and deckhand are two different worlds. Many great deckhands never become skippers for very good reasons. Being a skipper is one the most stressful jobs in the world. Things will become more clear as the months go by and we get closer to King Crab in October.
The F/V Cornelia Marie will finish Opilio fishing in a few weeks. Our current skipper, Derrick Ray has done his best to finish off this tough season. As stated earlier, Derrick is an old family friend who started his career earlier on the precursor to the Cornelia Marie – the F/V Milky Way. The Milky Way was one of the boats owned by Ralph Collins who owned and built the F/V Cornelia Marie.
We are grateful to all the fans of the Cornelia Marie and Capt. Phil. Thank you for the many nice words left here and other places on the internet. I hope this blog entry answers some questions. Capt. Phil was one of a kind and is missed by everyone. I look forward to the new season with apprehension. It will be strange to see Phil brought back to life on videotape only to face what we all know happened. Yet, I also assume the camera captured new joyful and humorous moments too – so that will be good.
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February 27, 2010
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KJ said:
Thank you for keeping everyone updated. I know I speak for a lot of people who love hearing about Captain Phil. He was such a great guy!
I too thought Captain Phil would recover. The whole thing came as such a shock.
Most of us are wondering what happened because Captain Phil seemed to be getting better.
We miss you Captain!
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February 27, 2010
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Antonia Inman said:
Thank you for letting us know what the plans of the family are. Like so many others, I admired Captain Phil for teaching his children (and his viewers) to do a fair day’s work, not cut corners, and to live every moment.
My daughter has always wanted to cook on one of the crab boats. I told her she could go to on the Cornelia Marie or the Northwestern. Both skippers seem to be solid guys with great judgment.
I wish I had gone to a Frank Sinatra concert, I wish I had actually gone to Obama’s Inaguration after scoring a ticket, and I wish that my daughter and I had taken the time to meet Phil Harris: a good, hard working, kind man who will not be forgotten.
To Josh, Jake and family, I have some pretty Labradors for you guys. They won’t replace a Dad, but they might be the way to find a place to heal.
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February 27, 2010
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Jennifer Waters said:
Keep the Cornelia Marie. I love that boat although i will miss Capt Phil. It would just seem wrong to take the boat off the show because Phil is gone. Don’t get me wrong Phil was my favorite Capt of them all and i may just cry like a baby when i see her again without him. But with the Cornelia Marie comes a big fan base. Those who are loyal to that boat and to Phil wanna know what her future is and who will be with her for crabbing. I’ll never stop watching the show until ya’ll quit taping it. I know many other fans and we all feel the same way. We love Sig, Phil, and Johnathan. We may not actually know these men but they and their crews have special places in our hearts. And lets not forget the boats!!!
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February 27, 2010
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Joyce Hejl said:
what your family wants for the Cornelia Marie should be the most important thing, as fans we would miss seeing your boat on the show, but whatever happens, happens and I wish you and your family and the Cornelia Marie the best in the future.
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February 27, 2010
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Bob Jones said:
Thanks. That answers a lot of questions. You also remind us that the Cornelia Marie is a workplace, that was fishing before the series and will keep fishing after the series. But, through the series, I feel like I’ve been a “guest” in your workplace. I’ve learned a lot about another way of life. Thanks for having me on board.
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February 27, 2010
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Jason Jacobs said:
Thank you to the Harris family for letting us into your life and experiencing the great joys of fishing in the Bearing Sea your father was a man that can never be duplicated my heart goes out to the Harris family and his extended family and friends
Safe Passage
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February 28, 2010
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Krisi Van Housen said:
Thank you so much for the post. I know that as fans, most of us never had the chance to even just meet Capt.Phil (or any of the men on the show) let alone really get to know him on a personal level. We do, however, feel a connection because we watch every episode (even reruns) and know that the emotions are real because the men are real and you just can’t help falling in love with them all. We do feel a loss.
Capt.Phil has always been one of my favorites and I am really glad we get this last season to enjoy him even if it is bittersweet knowing the outcome.
I do know how hard it is to carry on after the loss of the rock in the family, so I just hope Josh and Jake find their way. The one thing that was always clear was how much he loved those boys (even when he wanted to choke them!) One of my favorite qoutes is “Now I understand why lions eat their young!”. I’m a mother and find myself thinking that at least once a week (and laugh because the memory of Capt.Phil saying it with such conviction).
Josh and Jake, I hope we continue to see both of you as well as the Corneilia Marie and her crew on the show but if not lots of prayers and love and luck to ya’ll.
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February 28, 2010
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Kevin Harris said:
I really do hope that his boys will continue on.
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February 28, 2010
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Rose said:
Jake and Josh have to do whatever is comfortable for them.
I remember when I lost my Dad. We had a business together. At first, all I wanted to do was sell the business and move on, it was just to painful to imagine being there without my Dad.
Thankfully, I decided not to make any rash decisions that I would have ended up regretting.
I let myself grieve and found that after a few months I knew there was no way I would sell the business that my Dad started and worked so hard at.
Jake and Josh, give yourselves time before you make any decision about what you want to do. Then do what you feel most comfortable with in your hearts. Knowing you Dad, that is exactly what he would have wanted you to do.
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February 28, 2010
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Pattycakes said:
Thanks for the update and still having a hard time,as I’m sure most are, with the his death.
I would like to see a special made on him and all that has happened as he said in his wishes to continue filming.Why not?
R.I.P. Phil
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February 28, 2010
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Roger Tarre said:
To Jake and Josh,
My heart goes out to you and your family. We will miss your dad, but every time I am out on a boat, and many other times I will remember his wit and courage as he fought through the Bearing Sea and all of his life’s challenges. I just wish I actually had a chance to know him personally, instead of being a part of his TV family. We would have had a blast! I wish you all the best in the years to come.
If ever in Connecticut, look me up, I’ll be honored to see you guys.
Roger
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February 28, 2010
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Jessica Rutledge said:
every week me and my husband would curl up in front of the t.v. together to watch Deadliest Catch,(a show that we have never and never will miss an episode)we always wanted to see what was going on with our 3 fav. captains of the Bering sea Sig, Johnathan, and our most favorite of all capt. Phil(R.I.P. brave soul). We loved watching the relationship between Phil his boys and his crew (his sea family) he was tough but kind, and he loved his boys. Jake and Josh it would’ve been great honor and pleasure to meet ya’lls dad to not know him personally I feel as if we all family we’ve shared good and bad memories, laughter and pain, love and loss, smiles and tears. I hope ya’ll continue in ya’lls dads footsteps and be the men he raised you know like him, one heck of a man. I’m so sorry for captain Phil Harris’s family, friends, and crew (even though all three is/was his family we send our condolences, love, support, and prayers to you all. Capt. Phil you are loved and missed wish I would’ve had the chance to meet you, if I could’ve chose my dad it would’ve been you, if I were a fisherman of the Bering Sea I wld’ve wanted you as my captain, I toast my Red Bull to a man (though I never met face to face) you will never be forotten! Sail the sea and watch over the brave souls of the Bering Sea!
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February 28, 2010
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parrothead said:
Capt. Phil will certainly be missed. We enjoyed watching him & his crew on the show. Good luck to the Cornelia Marie in its future and to the boys. Thanks for keeping all the fans & “distant” friends updated.
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February 28, 2010
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Patsy Carlisle said:
Thanks so much for the update. Right now I believe the boys cannot imagine fishing without their dad. Phil knew his sons and had his opinions as to what their futures would hold. Whatever they decide-their Dad will be proud. Parents always want what is best for their children and what makes them happy, even though we are sometimes saddened when they don’t take the path we would have chosen for them.
To me the Cornelia Marie was Capt. Phil and his boys. I can’t imagine it without them.
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February 28, 2010
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Netter said:
My heart still mourns for the sons and family of Phil. While he is in a better place, they will still need to cope with the loss as well as decisions of where to go from here.
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March 1, 2010
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Jaime Flores said:
Regards to harris family, from a small fuel dock in kodiak.
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March 1, 2010
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Deidre said:
I don’t know what it was, but Phil was my very favorite Captain! He was the real deal, and I will cry alot this season I’m sure!
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March 2, 2010
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Victoria Smith said:
Dear Jake and Josh, My Love of my life Rob and I watched the show everytime it was on. He loved you guys Cornelia Marie was our favorite. He passed away on Dec 13, 2009 at the age of 45. I am so sorry for your loss. Your father was a brave and strong man. I have a sense of peace knowing your father is in heaven with Rob. They will have plenty of stories to tell each other. God Bless Victoria Smith
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March 2, 2010
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George Durgin said:
With great sadness we welcome the new season and look forward to our last time to see the hope and warmth of Phil. Be assured we will follow every step and look forward to a great season with many more to come.
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March 3, 2010
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John Sibley -NEWFOUNDLAND said:
Will miss him great guy fun loving and serious Captain
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March 3, 2010
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Helen Avery said:
We will miss Capt. Phil. He will always be remembered as an honest man, a good fisherman, and most of all a great father.
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March 4, 2010
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Bruce Bjorkman-Mr Barbecue said:
I will truly miss my friend Captain Phil Harris. He was crunchy on the outside, and a heart of gold on the inside.
I watched him interact with his fans at many public appearances in Portland, and he was always cordial and amazed that people “who would be so ga-ga over a guy who was just a crab fisherman.”
Let’s all have a Duck Fart in his honor and memory!
Phil was a man bigger than life.
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March 4, 2010
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Ron Williams said:
Some of Captain Phils closest friends gathered in Astoria, Oregon to honor their friend. They told some awsome stories. Included were Captains Rick Quashnick (owner of the Maverick)Derrick Ray (new skipper of the Cornelia Marie) and 3 other of Phils fishing partners. The tribute DVD will soon be available. Order yours by e-mailing [email protected]
proceeds go to help fund the commercial fishermens festival and it’s signature event (the Captain Phil Harris Highliner Competition)
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March 5, 2010
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Edward Nolan said:
A sad loss, the man is a legend though, and this will be his legacy.
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March 6, 2010
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PinkChampagne said:
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Captain Phil. So sad for someone to go at such a young age. He was obviously a hard working man who seemed to genuinely care for his family and friends. I know he’ll be missed by many.
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March 9, 2010
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Jenay said:
Oh NO !! I just heard the news and I’m devastated. I’m so sorry for the family. Captain Phil was my favorite. : { He was such a strong man, especially when he had to play ref for his kids and still stay focused on his job. What an awesome human being. I’m going to be crying my eyes out when the season begins. God Bless you guys…………
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March 12, 2010
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Michigan said:
Thank You for keeping us updated about Captain Phil. He took pride in teaching his boys the business. I do hope they continue in their Fathers footsteps and keep the Cornelia Marie going. Their Dad would have liked that. GOD BLESS YOU CAPTAIN PHIL.
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March 12, 2010
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autumn said:
we are looking forward to watching the new season , eventhough we are greatly saddend by the news of captain Phil, we wish his family all the best and hope they can continu8e to move forward in the healing process , captain Phil will be greatly missed by all.
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March 13, 2010
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Craig Wallace said:
I started watching Deadliest Catch 5 years ago since it started as the deadliest season. Of all the captains from Sig of the Northernwestern to Roger of the Saga… Phil Harris was the best of the lot. A sort of father figure to the fleet. He was a true skipper. Jake nd Josh I hope you read this nd it is my wish that you two take command of Corneila Marie. It wouldnt be the same without a Harris at the helm. God speed and be safe.
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March 13, 2010
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joe sebastian said:
Best wishes to the boys and the rest of crew! Don’t forget to follow the crab farts!
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March 14, 2010
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Neil Bleakney said:
Sad to know thaat captain Phil passed away, he was always interesting, I generally donj’t watch reality shows but this one has no gimmicks and I’m sure is pretty realistic. all the best to his sons and hope they do well
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March 17, 2010
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nixon family said:
to the brave and tough ones u live on the edge my sensere best wishes to the family and may god be with u . dont give up the dream ur father say in ur eyes .
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March 17, 2010
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LW family said:
Our thoughts and prayers are still with the boys and family and friends at this time. Phil will be greatly missed.
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March 18, 2010
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Jennifer Sams said:
I was stunned, truly stunned, and very sad when I heard the news about Captain Phil. My heart goes out to Josh and Jake, and to the rest of his family and friends, because I’ve never even met Phil Harris, and I feel that if I’m upset this much by his passing after just being allowed a glimpse of what kind of man he was, and his life and love for his boys, crabbing, and the CM–I can’t even imagine what those closest to him are going through. I did lose my mama though, and I will tell you–it was (and remains) the most horrible thing that has ever happened to me. The only thing I can offer for comfort is that it doesn’t seem it will ever get better, but eventually, day by day, it gets easier. You will NEVER get over it. Never. You just deal with it because you know you have to go on–and Captain Phil wants you to go on with your lives. Try not to make any big decisions now, if you can manage to put them off for a while. Remember, lots of us are praying for your peace of heart and mind. I wish you all nothing but good memories and if your path leads you back to the Cornelia Marie, there are a bunch of us who will welcome you with open arms. God bless you all–and rest in peace, Captain Phil Harris.
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March 18, 2010
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Barry Arnol said:
I have been a fan of Phil and the family right through the shows and respected him.
My family and I want to wish his family the deepest sympathy for their loss but always remember he is looking down at you telling you of everytime you do things wrong or when Jake spends money on the card.
Good luck boys and hope that you both do all okay.
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March 18, 2010
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klyn nickel said:
hi josh Harris and jack Harris this is klyn nickel
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March 19, 2010
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polo said:
Rip Phil Harris :(
Best regards from poland to all crew of Cornelia Marie
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March 19, 2010
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Christopher Martl said:
hello guys!!!! i am from austria and i look “deadliest catch” every day and the cornelia-marie is my favorite!
i was shocked when i heard that capt. phil is never with us.
i wish you the best for the next season!!
best greetings from upperaustria
r.i.p. phil
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March 19, 2010
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Tommy said:
Difficult time’s for all. In our thought’s from Scotland.
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March 20, 2010
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Sadie78 said:
I just wanted to send my condolences to the family of the Marie. I too have lost a family member to commercial fishing on Lake Michigan and only wish your family the best. The only way to keep going is to keep going and not quit. To all the other boats on the show and to all the others not mentioned have a good season… its a profession that hopefully will never die. We gotta take care of this earth otherwise there will be nothing left for future generations.
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March 23, 2010
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Doris said:
I am so devastated that Capt Phil Passed away he reminded me so much of my father and i loved watching him on the show. I am going to miss him terribly and i want to send my love to his family and let them know he will always be with you thru the good times and the bad watching over you . to help you through and to celebrate the good. Hes watching over you while you continue on the line. Honor him in every way possible . I will pray from your family through this tragic time it was too soon for him to be called home. But i know in my heart where he’s at now he has no pain and there is nothing but happiness for him, Celebrate his life thats what he would want.God Bless
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March 23, 2010
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Kathy Blythe said:
Phil and and boys and the CorneliaMarie
were always my favorites on the show. I will miss Phil deeply. To Jake and Josh, I am so very sorry. You had a great dad and know he is smiling down on you.
big Hugs and God Bless You both!
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March 23, 2010
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Salman said:
Cornelia Marie and all it’s crew were my favourites..I never missed any of the season. Will miss Capt.Phil ahead..He was great as a dad.would really love to see Jake and Josh on the vessel..God bless you all..
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March 24, 2010
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Karen said:
For Josh and Jake,
Through all of this journey just remember what your Dad said to you while he was still walking on this earth. Sometimes even the smallest of things will guide you on the journey you now walk. Your Dad will always be in your heart and in your mind. Listen when you hear his voice. He is watching over you–sometimes laughing, sometimes just giving advice-always loving you. Keep your eyes on the seas!
Peace and God Bless
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March 24, 2010
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Melanie Rice said:
R.I.P. Captain Phil
I only know you by watching the Deadliest Catch on T.V. But I still feel the sorrow of a loss. I was shocked when I found out thru the tabloids. My condolenses to Jake and Josh. I have been watching the show from the very beginning, and Capt. Phil was one of my favorites. I know what it feels like to lose someone close. You will never forget, but time does heal, but, remember all the good and bad times, cause they will get you through this time. I hope to see you still fishing in the years to come. May God Bless and Keep ALL the fisherman safe. Our prayers are with your family and friends..
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March 25, 2010
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Mr. Bill said:
The face of time continues on. The death of Capt Phil was a shock and loss to all of his TV fans and personal friends and family. The producers of the show should stand aside allow some time to pass, and whatever future, TV or not, Jake and Josh….I would not be surprised for your realization that following your Dad is your destiny. Safe journey ahead.
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March 25, 2010
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Brian said:
To Jake and Josh,
My deepest regrets and sympathy to both of you. I lost my dad at an early age as well…he was 49. I watched this show a few times…then when your family came on…I was hooked…it reminded me so much of what my relationship was with my dad…I was so happy to watch it and looked forward to it….your dad reminded me so much of our..especially the dry humor that your dad had and your responses…again my dad and myself to a tee!!!!
Good luck to you both…it does get to the point where you can move forwar but it does take time…take the time you need and don’t let anyone rush you through it…take your time and come to terms and best of luck to you both!
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March 27, 2010
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Brenda said:
I am still in shock, to go from dancing that Phil will make it to getting an email from Harvey telling me he had just passed. My husband cradled me a I cried for Josh & Jake, Ms Cornelia Marie, The Great Crew as well as the ship with boo boo’s to mend. Now hearts that are torn from family, friends & fna who are an extended family.
May I say I have an open door for you to rest in, when you are in Cleveland, OH doing promos for Discovery as Johnathan & Scott were last year. A big hug & probably tears in respect to Phil & his wonderful boys.
And yes, I may be an attractive woman, my husband is in the Rock Hall, but every day I cut a Duck Fart in honor of Phil who has Bering & crews working it hearing him fart away. WE WERE ON A CRUISE & I CUT ONE WITH THE CAPTAIN BEHIND US AS I YELLED OVER THE RAILING, TO PHIL, NOW I AWAIT YOURS, & HE CUT ONE TOO.
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March 27, 2010
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Brenda said:
I am still in shock, to go from dancing that Phil will make it to getting an email from Harvey telling me he had just passed. My husband cradled me a I cried for Josh & Jake, Ms Cornelia Marie, The Great Crew as well as the ship with boo boo’s to mend. Now hearts that are torn from family, friends & fna who are an extended family.
May I say I have an open door for you to rest in, when you are in Cleveland, OH doing promos for Discovery as Johnathan & Scott were last year. A big hug & probably tears in respect to Phil & his wonderful boys.
And yes, I may be an attractive woman, my husband is in the Rock Hall, but every day I cut a Duck Fart in honor of Phil who has Bering & crews working it hearing him fart away. WE WERE ON A CRUISE & I CUT ONE WITH THE CAPTAIN BEHIND US AS I YELLED OVER THE RAILING, “TO PHIL, NOW I AWAIT YOURS”, & CAPTAIN CUT ONE TOO.
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March 27, 2010
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Peaches said:
The show will not be the same without him. But to honor Captain Phil, I will continue to watch and think of him. God bless you, Phil Harris!