Earlier this summer, my friend Chelsie took part in a float trip to celebrate the life of her brother on the Niangua River. She was kind enough to share the experience for other families that might be looking for a way to create a memorial.
Chase Alan Savage
Born to Neal Savage and Georgie Wooldridge in Lebanon, Mo. Chase was the first child and grandchild. He was very loved and very spoiled. Chase had a unique charisma about him and was very adventurous. His kindness drew an array of long lasting friendships from old to young. He loved the outdoors and loved his family. Most of his summers were spent at the river floating and hanging out with good friends. Chase finally found his niche traveling and doing dent repair. Following a storm in Arizona on November 20, 2010 Chase had a fatal car accident and died at age 27.
How long have you been doing the float trip? Is it an annual event?
We have done it two years and it is annual.
How did this idea come about?
Chase was an active part of the One Eyed Willies Campground on the Niangua River. Lifelong family friend, Brian Wilson is the owner and came up with the idea to get Chase’s friends together to remember his life and raise money for charity with a dinner, bonfire, and music after the float. 50-100 people turned out. We put the event on Facebook and took reservations and t-shirt orders. We provided the main course for dinner and attendees brought a side dish. Matt Johnson from Digit Silvers in Lebanon did our shirts.
Money raised from the float goes to different charities in honor of Chase. The Chase Savage Memorial Fund has donated to The Humane Society, Strong Kids, Hough Cemetery, and helps families in need during the holidays.
Thanks Chelsie!