Fran Betters in Memoriam, by Dave Bollinger

Dave Bollinger sends sad news about the passing of a fly angling legend, Fran Betters.

Another entry from the sad news department:
 
Fran Betters of the long time Adirondack Sport Shop and originator of the Ausable Wulff fly pattern died this past Saturday, September 5, 2009.
 
I got to know Fran through the years when my wife and I would fish the West Branch of the Ausable for Green Drakes early in June. Fran typically held a barbeque and celebration for any and all visitors at that time of year and it was a lot of fun. He was a mainstay of the Adirondacks and he will be missed.
 
Here is a note from Ron Urban, Chair of  NYS Trout Unlimited:
 
"I have to say that Fran Betters gave it a great fight. He passed away this past Saturday after a lengthy illness. I am certain since my last visit with him in June that he is now at rest and in a place of tranquility and certainly with many friends fishing on a stream in Heaven. He was bedridden and has been so ill for so long. It was really a blessing. Many prayers are out to his wife, family and friends."
 
If you would like to send condolences to his wife Jan, send them via the following:
 
Mrs. Fran (Jan) Betters
Adirondack Sport Shop
P.O. Box 125
Wilmington, NY 12997
(518) 946-2605
info@adirondackflyfishing.com

Sincerely,

Dave Bollinger

Thanks Dave, for alerting us to this sad news.

-- Dr. Todd