Coordinator’s Column – Remembering Bill Smith

I heard the news that Bill Smith, a friend and former CPA Coordinator, passed away. I first met Bill on a CPA paddle when I was still relatively new to Maryland. He immediately became friends with my husband since they both had history in the Navy. It turned out that we had also shared membership in an outdoors group in Florida, Wilderness Trekkers. Here are some of my memories of paddling with Bill, and serving with him on the CPA Steering Committee.

Over the years I was on many CPA paddles with Bill. These included the Kent Island Practice Paddle Series (KIPP), the Pocomoke River, Eastern Neck Island, the Magothy River etc.

Bill is one of the dots under the bridge.

Bill was a strong paddler and was always focused on safety. He was always ready and willing to mentor new paddlers, give advice. He volunteered at many events including the Cold Water clinic, SK 101 and SK102. His generosity was limitless. After the opening of Cult Classic Brewery on Kent Island where Bill was a partner and founder, he opened the brewery for many CPA events. IN addition to the Cold Water Clinic, and SK101, we also held a Kayak Navigation Class, a Boat Repair Day, and our CPA annual meeting. Cult Classic was the place for paddlers to go after paddles on the Eastern Shore.

Swim testing dry suits in cold water.

SK 101 Fashion Show

Observing a rescue during SK102

Bill served on the CPA Steering Committee in 2016 before becoming CPA Coordinator, a position he held for 6 years. He was dedicated to the club in many ways. In addition to being Coordinator he led many paddles and volunteered for many events. He will be remembered for everything he has done for CPA as well as his paddling skills, his generosity, his sense of humor, and his friendship.

As the current coordinator I send my condolences to his family and friends that I never met. Please refer to the announcement of a Memorial for Bill Smith in this newsletter.

As always, happy paddling and remember that Bill is paddling the galaxy somewhere.

Paula Hubbard

CPA Coordinator.