Bill Irwin, Appalachian Trail Legend, dies...

From the pages of the Morning Sentinel...






"Frst blind hiker to trek Appalachian Trail dies

Bill Irwin dies in Maine at age 73 of prostate cancer.
The Associated Press

SEBEC— Bill Irwin, the first blind hiker to complete the Appalachian Trail without assistance, died in Maine at the age of 73.

A posting on Irwin’s website says he died of prostate cancer on March 1, the anniversary of the start of his historic 1990 journey.

In November 1990, Irwin arrived at a campground in Millinocket with his sole companion, his guide dog Orient. After nine months and 2,167 miles, he became the first blind person to make the solo hike from Georgia to Maine.

At the time, he said he felt “an indescribable feeling of gratitude” and credited his faith for carrying him along the trail.

A memorial service was set for Saturday in Bangor.

Irwin is survived by his wife, Debra, and four children."

I know this is such a brief blurb... says little about the man, other than acknowledging his amazing hike of the Appalachian Trail. Much more to the man, beyond that. Truly a great loss...

I imagine that he has been hiking the streets of gold, and has gazed into the eyes of our loving Lord and Savior. What a terrific ending to a beautiful journey!

Rest in His Peace, Bill, rest easy...

Stickman