In memory of Bill Shearer 1950-2004

Founding Member of WRW and Friend

If you knew, William "Bill" Shearer then there's not much I can tell you. For the rest, Bill was an avid sportsman and conservationist. Not easily replaceable is he going to be, because reading this means you belong to a conservation organization, one that is very active and with purpose and meaning.

Bill Shearer loved the White River as you do. He was saddened, as you were, when the fish kill occurred. And like you he decided to do something about it. Shearer did not pass from this world without seeing the fruit that he and his fellow White River watchers bore. Unfortunately, he isn't here for much of the harvest.

Bill has had the same canoe for many years. You'll find a lot of nicks and dents on the bottom, the result of many enjoyable floats down White River. We once did a remote radio broadcast on WHBU while floating down the river. Bill wanted to raise the level of awareness about this pristine flowage. Seeing a small flock of wood ducks and other wildlife along the White River was enough to get Bill excited. He envisioned the river, and its tributaries, as the lifeline of this area. We know this is true.

Bill and I hunted deer together. I was the one who got him interested in chasing whitetail. We hunted a lot in the Lick creek bottom. he became an excellent shot with a bow, harvesting several nice bucks. One Sunday morning, he called me from a tree stand. His voice was full of excitement demanding, I get there quick and bring a camera. Bill had arrowed a huge 11-point buck that field dressed at 254 pounds.