Our hearts weigh heavy after hearing longtime friend, co-worker, conservationist, and accomplished fly fisherman Walter T. “Wally” Vait, passed on June 7.
Wally was a unique individual with a wonderful perspective on life– the room was always a little brighter when he was around. “I’ve known Wally since I was 15, and that’s 40 years ago,” said Scott McGill. “He was president of Trout Unlimited, and we worked on conservation projects over the years. I also knew him as a fishing guide, and he was one of the best.” Wally will certainly be missed.
Friend and colleague, Dan Rodricks wrote a beautiful piece describing Wally’s rich life and experiences, The guide: Wally Vait and the all of it.
“The first time I stepped forward as an environmentalist was back in 1969 when the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, Ohio caught on fire. As a 15-year-old, just fresh from the farm, the image of a river on fire was disturbing in so many ways. So began my adult life journey; filled with lessons on how to become a better steward of the land.“
– Wally Vait
