In Memory of our Founder and Friend Olin C. Capwell
March 11, 1938 – March 8, 2008
By Sue Meehl, Pennsylvania State Chair
It all started with a “Bang!” . . .
Because of Olin Capwell’s vision and efforts, RMEF’s Northwest Pennsylvania Chapter celebrated its 20th anniversary on March 15, 2008—just two days after Olin’s memorial service. An active supporter all along the way, Olin held every possible position on the committee until his well-deserved retirement just over a year ago. Still, the Elk Foundation was never far from his mind. Olin would often stop by, stating that he had found “just the thing” that he was certain would wow the crowd—and he was always right!
Now for the “bang” part . . .
In 1988, Olin made the trip out to Colorado to hunt with his son David. They stopped for groceries and happened to pick up a copy of Bugle. Always on the alert for something unusual, Olin noticed a painting by Kay Homan featured in the magazine portraying a fisherman by a stream who has just spotted a majestic elk. This fellow’s automatic reaction is captured forever on canvas as he takes careful aim and shoots . . . with his fly rod! The title of the print is Bang!
Olin decided he just had to get that print for David for Christmas. However, when he checked into it, he learned the only way you could get it was by attending an RMEF banquet. That posed a problem since there were no chapters in the local area back home. The only solution was to start his own chapter—and the rest is history! David got his print; and now 20 years later, we are still reaping the benefits of that gift.
Olin loved the outdoors, and he loved knowing that through the Elk Foundation’s mission, open spaces and wildlife will still be here for his sons and grandchildren to enjoy. And just as important, he loved the friendships that he cultivated over the years through RMEF.
Olin will be greatly missed by those of us who were privileged to know him.