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In memory of "Steady" Ed Headrick |
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"Steady" Ed Headrick - The father of disc golf and inventor of the modern day Frisbee
Thanks to everyone who added to this page in memory of "Steady" Ed in the days, weeks and years after Ed Headrick passed on into the sky.
Life can be considered fragile and fleeting but Ed Headrick never let a little thing like mortality get in his way. Ed was a larger than life man whose life time experiences could fill the pages of many books. Ed was one of those rare individuals who would step forward at any occasion no matter what the occasion was and provide direction, leadership, compassion and humor. Everyone who knew Ed knew that he could make something out of nothing and often did. Ed was one of the rare people who really did more in his lifetime then most people even dreamed about. We will all miss you Ed and will cherish all that you created and left behind for us. "Steady" Ed Headrick is know as "Father of all Disc Sports" and considered the driving force responsible for the modern day era of Frisbee sports and disc golf. Ed founded the International Frisbee Association, established the Junior Frisbee Championship, established and organized the World Frisbee Championship and went on to create and standardize the sport of Disc Golf. After founding the Professional Disc Golf Association and organizing landmark Disc Golf tournaments, Ed donated his Trademark “Disc Golf” to the public domain and founded Disc Golf Association (DGA). If there is something you would like to add to this page please write us with your addition and we will add it. Thank you, DGA 'Father Of Disc Golf' Dies Age 78 August 2002 Testimonial From Victor Malafronte: Greetings Frisbee Friends: 
The frisbee world lost it's founding father today. Steady Ed (PDGA #001) Headrick died at 3:30 AM today (12th August 2002). He was surrounded by his loving family and close friends at his home in California. Steady ED suffered a stroke while attending the PDGA Amateur Worlds
at Kendall Park in Florida. He suffered another stroke while at the
hospital. Steady Ed did not want a funeral. He wanted everyone to have a party. To celebrate life. Steady Ed touched the lives of millions of people from around the world. He was the father of frisbee and disc golf. He dedicated his life to spreading the joy and fun of the frisbee game and especially disc golf. His vision, enthusiasm and selflessness has given us a way of life thatwill endure until we come to the last disc golf hole. For those of you who are not old timers, Steady Ed invented the Wham-O Pro Model frisbee in 1964, founded the IFA in 1969, the WFC Rose Bowl events in 1974, hired Dan "Stork" Roddick in 1975, invented the Disc Pole Hole and created the DGA in 1976. He installed nearly 800 disc golf courses in 20 countries. He was a husband and father of 4 children. He was my friend, my mentor and butt kicker when I needed it. He was our ambassador, our disc golf renaissance man. We urge everyone who was touched by this great man to hold a moment
of Steady Ed said, "Disc Golf will change your life!" It changed mine, big time! We will surely miss him! Victor Malafronte (PDGA #002) One Minute's Silence Ashes To Ashes, Dust To Disc I liked the site... made me want to paste part of this favorite poem here, hope that is ok If by Rudyard Kipling If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or being hated don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise .... ... www.saroff.com T. H. <lipo_for@aol.com> Chi Town, TX USA - Monday, May 12, 2003 at 20:20:46 (PDT) I clicked random link on the search engine and ended up on your site. Nice site, good job and hello from Canada. Canadian Pharmacy - Bill Calgary, Canada - Sunday, May 11, 2003 at 00:30:33 (PDT) Time passes so fast. It seems that we only have our memories sometimes.
Too often do people just wander through life without purpose. Sadly, many people come to an end, before they find their purpose. I am not saying that playing Disc Golf is the meaning of life. But when all else fails, Disc Golf is there. Nothing feels better than playing a couple of rounds after a rough day. I did not know Steady Ed Headrick, but I do play Disc Golf. And it is with the up most respect, that I say Thank You to Mr. Steady Ed Headrick for the spectacular game of Disc Golf. May his soul rest in peace. James Gordy <jgordy@attbi.com> Flower Mound, Tx USA - Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 20:35:12 (PDT) The prime disc is off the roof Spring has sprung We'll miss you Ed Hope you're catching 'em on the run Gordon Ackley USA - Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 04:34:13 (PST) Just surrfed about. Hi all! :) - Sunday, March 30, 2003 at 23:05:11 (PST) Hallo best wishes from germany private krankenversicherung ger - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 02:27:13 (PST) Really enjoyed this great site. Brought back lots of good times and good memories. Great job! Chat Studenten Chat <schmidt@lol.de> - Wednesday, March 05, 2003 at 04:47:51 (PST) Thanx guyz, I really enjyed your site! Wish you good luck. I am not sure what this is all about yet. Chanced here. What would Bukowski do? That is what we should all be asking. Steve S. from www.saroff.com -- come and visit to read stories and see pictures. Steve Saroff <ssaroff@hotmail.com> Missoula, MT - Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 13:20:00 (PST) Just surfed in. Nice Web site. Thank you, thank you thank you. --- Elizabeth..... www.FlixTown.com Elizabeth <elizabethK@aol.com> Boston, MA - Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 12:38:03 (PST) I only had the pleasure of meeting Ed once. He hosted the first Fall Colors Tournament at Newport News City Park in Virginia. He was a most gracious host. I have been throwing my "Steady Ed" memorial driver at the local course,Bayville Park in Virginia Beach, and a lot of people have said I am crazy for throwing it. Well like they say you can't take it with you when you go, plus it was Ed' s wish to fly again, so thats reason enough for me. Anybody who hangs Ed on a wall should be ashamed of themselves. Fly on Ed! Keith Zetts, PDGA#12241 <ezetts@coastalnet.com> Corapeake, NC USA - Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 16:14:07 (PST) Life is a wishbone. -Linus Van Pelt Peanutsss Quotes <peanutsss@lycos.es> USA - Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 14:58:54 (PST) I/we miss you, Ed. Thanks for all of your lessons. Thanks for all of your gifts. Thanks for that first Night Flyer. Thanks for your friendship. Thanks for EVRYTHING ! wil west #794 <wil.west> anaheim, ca USA - Monday, February 10, 2003 at 15:51:14 (PST) Web site nicely crafted Samantha Williams <willsam911@yahoo.com> USA, none USA - Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 15:27:16 (PST) Hi - Great site - I'm actually looking for a friend, does anyone know how to reach Carl Cubbedge? thanks in advance. ~Linda linda <leesgirlrn@yahoo.com> va USA - Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 14:23:12 (PST) I hope this reaches as many as possible before Sunday, Dec. 29! There will be a retrospect of important people passing this year on TV. It is the CBS Morning Show that airs really early, (usually between 6 and 8 am!), on Sunday mornings and is an hour and a half long. I'm sure the segment will be brief, but the entire show is really worth watching. I don't have TV at my house, but I'm looking forward to going to a house that does to see Ed, my Dad, on TV! I've missed a bunch of the stories that have aired on the news, etc., but not this one, and hope you all won't either. I'll be thinking about all of you while I watch, too! Until next time, Valerie Valerie Headrick <valheadrick@yahoo.com> Quincy, CA USA - Friday, December 27, 2002 at 19:05:36 (PST) Thanks for this Great Sport "ED" See you in Heaven Lord Willing. † RT <acerun@mail2texas.com> San Antonio, TX USA - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 14:41:53 (PST) Thank You Ed, For all the times that I tossed Frisbees at trees as a kid, for finding La Mirada, for my first Midnight Flyer. All these things combined have given me a lifetime of memories that I will never forget. You were the reason that I found what I was born to do, throw your invention!! Thank You once again for 23 years of Flying disc competition, and a lifetime of throws yet to be made. May you rest in Peace in the Kingdom of Heaven.... Sincerely, Craig Leyva PDGA #5787 Craig Leyva <CLeyviar@aol.com> Arlington, Tx USA - Monday, December 09, 2002 at 21:12:21 (PST) i haven't been golfing much this year and just heard of Ed's passing. I only met him once (1992 Worlds) and i'll have to dig out the picture i took with him................R.I.P. Steady Ed jeff #11653 jeff w <jgordon@beer.com> warren, mi USA - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 19:03:47 (PDT) I never had the pleasure of meeting Ed, and I wish that I had. I saved a little spot on my putter for his signature, but never got it. I am proud to say that I am RDGA # 300, and hopefully will soon have a PDGA number as well. We'll all miss you Ed. Tim Wesolowski <tweso@earthlink.net> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Sunday, September 22, 2002 at 17:42:17 (PDT) Just wanted to get this posted to you all! ...And I apologize for sending such a lengthy one! Bold of me! I've had it in my computer for several days, "eating a hole in my pocket", you might say! Mentioned photos will be posted later. It's important to me to reach as many of you as I can, so, short of going to each individual, I thought this might work. I wrote these letters at odd hours of the morning and sometimes in a rush, so excuse, please. Sending my love and a great big "Steady Ed Group HUG" out to you all...hey, I think I'll patent that! HE should have been patented! Nobody could invent another Ed Headrick, though!! ========================================= Hello everyone! I just wanted to let you know my feelings and share with you about my Dad with two letters I recently wrote. One from last week to all the Disc Golf Family and another just wrote today.Ę Following is a last photo of Ed. Much love, Valerie ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To all the Steady Ed 001 Family, Where do I begin? Would it be understood if I told you all that Steady Ed adored each and every one of you? He loved his family, but he lived for you guys! (And, of course his loving, beautiful wife, Farina). I hope he knew the impact his life had on so MANY people... I didn't really quite understand until his passing. I did know what he meant to me and how very PROUD I am to be his daughter!! He was a character, a real nerd, but at the same time a "cool cat". He was way too smart for me to even "get" sometimes, but was always willing and ready to teach anything he knew! or even pretended to know. Eventually, he'd know it! He only went on 2 vacations with our mom sans-kids but took us on MANY an adventure... that'll be another story! Growing up as Wham-o kids? What a trip! We got pulled out of many classes to do commercials... yeah, that was extremely cool! He brought home a multitude of toys for us AND him to try and some gadgets that weren't really toys, (ie: a machine much like today's ab-enhancer. Attach it to your muscles and crank up the volts! Twitch-Twitch, what fun! (Didn't fly); or the "B.O." in a can! He loved the idea!! I think he got the biggest kick out of that one, (made of onion juice and ??? Smelled pretty yucky!!). He wanted to have it delivered to people in their mailboxes as a sample of deodorant... Oh yeah! He knew how to have fun :) Anywho, back to you guys... The overwhelming response to his illness and final breath was felt by Ed and us all. He saw what was happening to himself and handled it like the bravest man I've ever known. He was actually analyzing and contemplating his condition constantly and was in awe of his own last moments on this Earth. He even asked to have "the very last second captured in a photo". I told him that it would take a lot of film to even attempt to know when that would be. His response was, "Exactly! Isn't that a paradox?" In another moment of thought, he told my son, Mateo, that "Your Uncle Dan and I are going to take a jet ride to an island", (they had occasion to party together on such excursions in the past), "and my jet is running out of fuel", "Us Headricks gotta stick together!", "You got my cell phone number?" Dan looked at Mateo and they both got his meaning. It was another adventure and he was into it. I'm su! re he means for us all to stay in touch - with him, what he taught us and with each other. We have one hell of a family, here! Thanks for being so supportive for all of us... his family he gave life to; the wife he gave his life to; and all the players in his game that he lived for. All my love and deepest appreciation, Valerie Headrick #4 kid; only, but favorite daughter, not-so-hot-a-golfer... sorry Dad, I'll try harder next time! P.S. Favorite Ed quotes: (add to em if you like!) "Write when you get work!" aimed mostly at me...maybe the rest of you haven't heard that one? "Fuck 'em if they can't take a joke!!!" I KNOW YOU'VE ALL HEARD THAT ONE!!! A real favorite around the dinner table!! HA! I GOTTA END THIS...I'M LAUGHING TOO HARD AND IT'S PAST 2 a.m.! No, I said that one. "Let's go to bed! These people wanta' go home!" In other words, get lost! Goodnight, Ed. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- THIS ONE WAS SENT TO FAMILY ---------------------------------------------- Hi Everyone, I'm sorry we weren't too quick with the notification about Ed! He wasn't sick, but was hit with a blockage to the brain, (stroke), that was what they called "progressive". He was in Miami on a course, to give a speech to his much loved Disc Golf Family and play a bit at the World's Championships when it hit him. He had high blood pressure and seriously blocked arteries, especially the carotid in the neck. The block was irreversible and we all became very aware that this wasn't going to get! better! He said amazing things about his situation to all of us as we visited with him there in Florida. "Can you have Dove take a photo of the LAST SECOND?" I told him that would use up a lot of film, cuz' when would anyone know it was the last second? He said, "Exactly!". "This is a paradox!" What a trip. He reinvented and improved MRI and CAT scan machines every time he entered one and was very witty with the doctors, but they rarely got his deep, metaphorical jokes and attributed his (what appeared to be bizarre), comments part of the stroke. They didn't have a clue about him. How could they when they spend about 20 seconds in the room with him each day! His terrific, loving wife, Farina, stayed by him nig ht and day and provided almost all of the physical care and cleaning/feeding etc., when he needed, but really inspired him to try hard to not just give in to it. She really wanted him to get better and have the progressing dark areas of his brain stop, as did we all, but it just kept on coming. He was never afraid, he never complained about the hospital food. He took his pills that were ground into powdery chunks and swished into his mouth with a little water and didn't even wince. He was gracious to all that called and came to see him and it kept us all in tears knowing that we were never going to be able to see or talk to or hear him giggle again, very soon. He saw his immediate future as the "adventure of a lifetime" to be precise! What a man he had become! All of us met him back at his home after nearly 2 weeks in Florida. Farina had him flown back in an air ambulance jet that was pricey but well worth it! He arrived at the Salinas airport to see several family and friends and his much missed whippets, Wendel and Whip. The local news did a segment on him, and Ken and Farina, (who rode back on the plane with him), said, "He flirted the entire trip with the not-to-bad-looking nurse and never slept once!" Go Ed! In that last week after, he was surrounded by all of his children, most of his 11 grandchildren and several friends who stopped by. Brother Gary arranged for a homecoming/self-attended wake kind of party for Dad and he appreciated it. After that Saturday, he pretty much started to focus on the j! ourney ahead of him and was more weak and unable to speak. He slept a lot and was made more comfortable through the care of Hospice and Dr. Dan. He couldn't eat anymore and had never wanted to hang about in that sort of vegetative state, so he let go. We all said our good-byes in many ways and numerous times... he probably could have used more private time, but it was hard to let go and not be with him while still available. No services are scheduled at this time, but we are honoring his many mentioned, long time wish to be cremated and added to the plastic of new Frisbees. These will be in the format of mini-discs for family and friends like his previous business, Christmas and wedding announcement cards he has always opted to send out... And, a museum is in the making! He'd be proud of how hard his adoring wife, Farina, is working to get it all together in his honor! You can leave messages for all to read by clicking on the top sentence that reads: "We'll miss you Ed!" Please go there and hear what is being felt by so many. I'm sorry we didn't get a phone call out to all of the family, but it seemed like because it was immediately on the front of all Internet homepages, radio, TV, newspapers around the world, and in Newsweek magazine, to name a few, that you would have heard before we could get our act together enough to notify you ourselves. You should go to a search engine and enter "Steady Ed" or "Ed Headrick" and see how much acknowledgment and stories there are on him! ! Steady Ed, handsome and humble, has left the building! But, not without having had made a major contribution to so many lives. I just hope he knows how loved he is. Like I said, no specific memorial is planned just yet, but you never know! If you have any ideas, I'm open for that. I think this has all been pretty exhausting for any of us to plan any more, but I do think it would be good for others to share about him and say good-bye, too. Well, that's that. Much love to you all and thanks for your thoughts and well wishes. Valerie Valerie Headrick <valheadrick@yahoo.com> Quincy, CA USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 17:43:14 (PDT) THANK YOU ED, FOR BLESSING MY LIFE WITH THE GAME OF DISC GOLF. YOU WILL BE MISSED, BUT YOUR SPIRIT WILL REMAIN ON OUR DISC GOLF COURSES FOREVER! THANK YOU....ERIC JACKSON FAYETTEVILLE DISC LEAGUE (PRESIDENT) ERIC JACKSON <ERICJSDISC@AOL.COM> FAYETTEVILLE, NC USA - Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 06:57:44 (PDT) I had the pleasure of meeting Ed a few years ago. He walked a few holes with my foursome. I'm glad I had and took the moment to Thank him in person for the great inspiration that discgolf has had on me and others. Tom Mertins <tmertins@famousfootwear.com> madison, wi USA - Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 09:41:01 (PDT) Fly on "Steady Ed." Thank you for all you did & for who you were. Along with the members of the De Laveaga Disc Golf Club,(mem.#21),and friends like Tom Schot,Stancil Johnson,& others, i wish you a "Steady" flight home. You will be missed & remembered. Thanks also to your family for putting your ashes in discs so we will have something to honor you by. In flight, Greg. Greg Stone <indigenous@nativeweb.net> Beaverton, Or USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 15:31:08 (PDT) Fly on "Steady Ed." Thank you for all you did & for who you were. Along with the members of the De Laveaga Disc Golf Club,(mem.#21),and friends like Tom Schot,Stancil Johnson,& others, i wish you a "Steady" flight home. You will be missed & remembered. Thanks also to your family for putting your ashes in discs so we will have something to honor you by. In flight, Greg. Greg Stone <indigenous@nativeweb.net> Beaverton, Or USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 15:29:55 (PDT) I would like to say thanks to Steady Ed for inventing such a fascinating object call the Frisbee and the game of Disc Golf. Back in the late 60's and early 70's I was a "hippie". The frisbee was very popular with hippies. When we would attend rock concerts in the Municipal Auditorium we would bring frisbees and see who could throw a frisbee from one side of the auditorium's balcony to the other side. I was one of the few people that could throw it that far. So when a friend in 1986 introduced me to Disc Golf, I was a natural. I have played since and just competed in my first Pro Worlds Tournament in Houston. I wanted to be good at a sport for a very long time, and thanks to Steady Ed I am good at a sport. I wish I could have met Ed to thank him in person. So where ever Ed's spirit is soaring, I thank him for all he did for the sport of disc golf. Don Perkins Don Perkins <dperkins5669@charter.net> Covington, LA USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 13:05:46 (PDT) I would just like to share the last email I sent to "Steady" Ed ---------------------------------------------------------- Steady Ed: From the super ball to glow in the dark plastic to disc golf it seems that I have grown up with your inventions all my life. I remember as a kid in the 70's that I couldn't wait to get to the gumball machine and get a superball out! Last year I ordered discs from such a legend. If I make it out to California we're gonna have to show me the first course you installed! I am glad to hear the you are able to make it back home. I realize you must be getting tons of mail so I made this as brief as I could. Remember "No Chain, No Gain"© Jimm Director: PAR-TWO Disc Golf Society Jimm Crawford <jimm@par-two.com> Columbus, OH USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 20:14:34 (PDT) I FIRST ED THE SUMMER OF 81 WITH JOHN DAVID IN LITTLE ROCK ARK, TED SMETHERS WAS THERE HOSTING THE EVENT,,,ED AND I BONDED INSTANTLY...HE ASKED ME TO BE A SALES REP FOR THE PDGA AT THE TIME THERE WAS ONLY ONE ...WE BECAME EDS BOYS WE SOLD HIS DISCS HIS COURSES AND WE STARTED A LITTLE THING CALLED THE PDGA TOUR ..I WAS AN OFFICIAL AT THE FIRST WORLD IN LA. 1982 AND PLACED 44TH...ED NOT ONLY WAS MY MENTOR ..HE WAS MY FRIEND,,,,A SURROGOTE FATHER SINCE MY REAL FATHER DIDNT UNDERSTAND THAT HIPPIE SPORT OF FRISBEE..ED LED ME DOWN ROADS I NEVER KNEW EXISTED..AND GAVE ME A LIFESTYLE THAT I WOULD NOT TRADE FOR A MILLIION DOLLARS...I STOOD BY ED TILL THE END AND ILL NEVER FORGET HOW HE TOUCHED ME AND ILL CONTINUE TO CARRY ON HIS DREAMS AND LEGACY OF DISC GOLF AND OTHER DISC SPORTS ..THRU EDS PASSING IVE LEARNED TEMPERANCE AND THAT WE ARE NOT IMMORTAL BUT WHAT WE DO HERE ON THIS EARTH CAN EFFECT GENERATIONS THAT COME AFTER US...TO EDS FAMILY ,,,MY MOST SINCERE CONDOLENCES....FARINA .FRANK, KEN; I DEEPLY FEEL YOUR LOSS...YOUR PAIN IS MY PAIN....I AM SO GLAD HIS PASSING WAS WITH HIS FAMILY AND COMFORTED BY HIS FRIENDS I JUST WISH I COULD HAVE BEEN THERE TO HOLD HIS HAND ,ONE LAST TIME.PLEASE KEEP ME IN MIND FOR ONE OF THOSE DISCS WITH HIS ASHES...HIS SPIRIT LIVES IN ME AND ALL THOSE WHO LOVED HIM...THANK YOU AND AGAIN BLESS YOU ALL...BRIAN HARRISON .......ONE OF EDS BOYS.... BRIAN HARRISON PDGA 714 <hipflynt@hotmail.com> SHREVEPORT, LA USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 18:18:22 (PDT) I LOVE YOU Steady Ed!!! One compassionate,humorous,obstinate man. I feel extremely lucky to have known you. I'll never forget the 1000 foot+ shot you made for the TV cameras in Puerto Rico Febuary 2000. I really enjoyed your storytelling with such a great deep voice. I will always follow your instruction to design courses that everyone can play, . I see why you tried so hard to promote this great game for the masses and not just the few who can throw far. You really understood that this game is about fun and the chance to shoot the breeze with your friends. I will miss you. Tom Mote <mmote@email.com> Harpersfield, Oh USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 13:43:40 (PDT) My heart goes out to the family and friends of Ed. I thank him for this wonderfully addicting game known as disc golf! My own father died some years back when I was just starting to love the game, I wish he could have played it with me.. We will ALL miss you ED! I am sure you will have a great course waiting for us when our time comes!! FLIP FLAT FLIES STRAIGHT Doug Rose <dougmichelerose@aol.com> cottage grove, mn USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 11:53:14 (PDT) My heart goes out to the family and friends of Ed. I thank him for this wonderfully addicting game known as disc golf! My own father died some years back when I was just starting to love the game, I wish he could have played it with me.. We will ALL miss you ED! I am sure you will have a great course waiting for us when our time comes!! FLIP FLAT FLIES STRAIGHT Doug Rose cottage grove, mn USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 11:52:35 (PDT) My thoughts and prayers go out to Ed's family and the Frisbee community. The game Ed invented is the glue that brings my sons, brothers, and friends together. Rest in peace. Rob Toltzman PDGA #3594 Rob Toltzman <TOLTZMA@NEVP.COM> Las Vegas, NV USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 11:30:20 (PDT) Thanks Ed, For a wonderful Game! I hope to play for a long time. I will always be thanful to you and yours for this game. The game has brought a lot of people together from all over the world. Thanks again,God Bless and Rest in peace. Danny Lane <Danny.Lane@state.tn.us> Nashville, TN USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 06:07:04 (PDT) My deepest heartfelt condolences to Ed's family. God Bless. After my 27 year love affair with the frisbee I felt deeply honored to meet Ed last year in Oroville when we were planning the course. What a generous and wonderful person he was to give of his time and knowledge to help others with their passion for HIS sport. God Bless you Ed and see you at the big disc course in the sky. BJB Barbara Bowen <frisbeeb@aol.com> Chico, CA USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 01:42:08 (PDT) Each of you as disc golfers attending the Pro Worlds have reason to be proud of what we as a disc community did in Ed's final hours. Little did I know until I had time enough to catch my breath and listened to my voice mail on my mobile phone. For those who didn't know, we as players & organizers of Pro Worlds all signed one of the great Worlds posters all week long. As I was preparing for the Astros game on Friday night, I hurriedly put this poster in a FedEx envelope with a couple Worlds polos, and sent them FexEd Next Day Saturday delivery, hoping that Ed would get them and think of us thinking of him while we were going through the finals of this event. I wasn't even sure if the hotel had been able to get the package out in time, as it was quite a rush to catch the bus to the game. Little did I know how important this small example of our love for Ed would be touched. A transcript of the voice mail that was left on my cell at 12:30 Saturday afternoon, which I did not get until Sunday morning after the tournament was complete while cleaning up the park with our staff: "Hey Dave, this is Gary Headrick. Just wanted to let you guys know that we just received your FedEx package and told Dad that you all had sent that great poster with everyone's comments and concerns. Its 11:30am here now, and if he's lucky he'll make it until 12. He's really right on the edge there, so you got your message here just in time. We shared it with him as best we could, and he feels your love. Thanks for all your support. Bye" I have been truely amazed and blessed by the power of my Lord in the works he has done in my life, and the prayers he answered in just allowing the rains to hold off this week. I now know he answers all those prayers and more. Please be with this family in these trying times. Dave "Nez" Nesbitt <dave@dnesbitt.com> Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 21:22:05 (PDT) I never got to meet you in person Ed and thank you for all the joy you've brought me through Disc Golf. I can't wait to play a round with you when I get to heaven. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those in Ed's family and the many others who were close to him. God Bless. Chris Staples <GilgameshCS@adelphia.net> Owensboro, KY USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 20:42:58 (PDT) My family and I are just beginners at the fabulous sport of frisbee golf. We are all saddened to learn of the death of Ed Headrick. Our prayers and thoughts are with Ed and his family at this time of mourning. The world has lost a wonderful human being. Sincerely, The Jones Family, Knoxville, TN Mike Jones <vballjones13@comcast.net> Knoxville, TN USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 19:02:10 (PDT) We all will miss you Ed ! I will think of you many times a day( "everytime I touch a disc") Our "Deepest", "Heartfelt" Condolences, to Farina, Valerie, Ken, Dan, Gary and the rest of the family on your (our) loss. He was a great man, and a humble one too. Frank"flamingo"Moynihan <flamingoputt@pdga.com> Santa Rosa, CA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 18:37:48 (PDT) Ed, I was one of the kids who used to hang out in Lacy Park and watch in awe all the Whamo people play (I got to play Ultimate every now and then to even up teams, what a thrill!), and Ashley Whippet too. You and The Stork were my heroes. I was at the first Frisbee Golf Tournament in La Canada and thought I was hot(14 under), until I saw the winning score. I was at the Rose Bowl when one of the frisbee dogs, after the third lousy throw from his master, flipped the frisbee over and took a dump in it! Another innovative use for the frisbee. In 1976, My wife and I played freestyle frisbee in Tahiti for the locals who had never seen what we were doing. It got us a place to stay and plenty of beer, wine, fish and mangoes.The 80's came and my two boys were born; they've been playing frisbee since they were 18 months old. Over the past ten years, I've hooked up with you a couple of times regarding Disc Golf Courses in Chico and Oroville. You turned a godforsaken piece of land in Oroville into a great golf course and you gave me a bunch of your discs. Thank you. You've influenced my life, next to my parents, maybe more than anybody. How far will the frisbee fly in Heaven?! Chris Bowen <frisbeeb@aol.com> Chico, CA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 17:04:58 (PDT) On behalf of the SkyCatz Disc Golf Club we extend our condolences to "Steady" Ed's family and friends. Ed Headrick is synonymous with disc golf and all that it stands for. We will miss him dearly. Sincerely Jeff Stoops Sky Catz Disc Golf Club <skycatzdiscgolfclub@yahoo.com> Grass Valley/Penn Valley, CA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 13:20:20 (PDT) My deepest condolences to the Headrick family. I remember building a course several years ago in Grapevine, TX (Bear Creek). It was at the time when Ed was working hard on moving the concept of designing courses for recreational play. As a matter of fact he had very specific requirements regarding lengths, tees, etc. He was enforcing design and designer requirements. I complied to the letter of Ed's requirements. I built it just as he required and even though most serious disc golfers would call it a short course, I can guarantee you that it is a very popular course and has allowed hundreds to enjoy the game. He knew exactly what he was doing. I know that many people do not understand the concept but folks we need as many recreational courses as we need long professional courses. I am a frisbeetyrian and I believe deeply that the power of the disc can only be understood by watching its flight very closely which is what we all do when we play disc golf! Ed signed a disc for me at the Am Worlds in Wichita in 89 and I consider it my most cherished disc. Even though he asked me to tell him my score which was +18 and he wrote it on it and we had a good laugh. The sweet sound of those ringing chains will now have a new meaning for me. I'll miss you Ed, and thanks for providing a game that has given us all so much and allowed us to meet and postively interact with so many incredible people. Dave Draz <ddraz@sbcglobal.net> Kansas City, MO USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 12:01:06 (PDT) I became a disc golfer while living in the State of Oregon, USA, during the late Winter and Spring of 2001. I found myself surrounded at all times by the natural beauty of the Oregon countryside, and people who enjoyed the physical challenge of disc golfing. I had read a little of the history of disc golf by then and remember reading about Mr. Headrick's success at getting the sport up and running. It is with heartfelt empathies, sympathies, that I convey my condolensces to "Steady Ed's" family and friends. Although still a very new disc golfer--and hopeful competitor--this sport has allowed me a new way to be physically-fit, meet people with similar interests, and all within an atmosphere that is friendly, and at the same time, challenging. "Steady Ed" will be surely missed. Thank you, "Steady Ed." You changed my life for the better with the advent of this sport. Love and Light, Stephen Andrew Brown Traverse City, Michigan Stephen Andrew Brown <thequantumfishe@chartermi.net> Traverse City, MI USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 11:45:20 (PDT) Ed, You brought joy to me for over 20 years, although we met once, it is a memory that I will keep with me. I hope and pray that you are at peace, and that you find hapiness beyond what you have done on this wonderful planet. Your giving ways have left inside me a great feeling of responsibility to continue to promote the great sport that has spirits within it. Disc golf will never be the same without you, yet with you you made disc golf never the same. THanks for all that you did for the game and thanks for putting your brain into our lives. Jack Lowe President Kansas City Flying Disc Club Jack Lowe <jlowekc@att.net> Kansas City, MO USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 09:36:56 (PDT) I was lucky enough to talk with Ed in Miami before he went into the hospital. Needless to say it was the highlight of my trip. That 20 minutes we spent together will forever be in my mind. I first met him in 1980 and feel very lucky to have played golf with him several times. He is my hero. I will dedicate every event I run from now on to him. Tim Willis PDGA # 1401 Sarasota Fl. Tim Willis <trwmjc@comcast.net> Sarasota , Fl. USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 09:32:37 (PDT) I have the pleasure of working with Ed's daughter, Valerie, at a local newspaper in Quincy, California. Though I never had the opportunity to meet Ed, if he's anything like his daughter, he's a wonderful and caring person. I have thrown Frisbee's since I was a very young boy and am sad to hear the man who made them fly straight and "steady" is no longer with us. My thoughts are with the family. Kevin Mallory Quincy, California Kevin Mallory <kmallory@plumasnews.com> Quincy, CA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 08:23:42 (PDT) I am sitting here with a red t-shirt with the white text: (in cyrillic alphabet) - on front: oltimat klub dolgorykie - on back: moskov Whith out Ed, I hadn't got this t-shirt as a gift from a Russian frisbee friend. Thanks Ed for all friends you gave me from all around the world you made it a little more loving. Jonas Bengtsson Sweden Jonas Bengtsson <bengtsson@jonas.com> Stockholm, Sweden - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 07:00:18 (PDT) I shall always remember them as the"the rings of headrick"...and each time I touch a disc I will remember...via con dios amigo. ajay kansas city, USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 05:38:24 (PDT) Thank you Ed for creating toys and games for children to keep them entertained, Disc Golf being no exception. * We are all your children * Having had the pleasure to meet you on several occasions, most memorably the '96 Ice Bowl in Milwaukee, WI. It was during the putting contest sponsored by the Disc Golf Journal where you were assisting with the errant shots. My first throw was just to the left of the basket right where you were standing. You didn't even have to move to catch it. When I walked up to retrieve my disc, I saw a gleam in your eye as you handed me back my 86 Softie putter. Jeff Albrecht PDGA #9148 I'M FREE.. Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free. I'm following the path God's laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone must stay this way. I found that peace at the close of the day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Oh yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I savored much, Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and peace to thee, God wanted me now; HE SET ME FREE ! Jeff Albrecht <xanadude@qwics.com> Sheboygan, WI USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 23:25:04 (PDT) My deepest condolenses to the family at this sad time in our lives. God Bless "Steady Ed" one of THE ONLY people on Gods green earth who really understood giving and sharing for what it truley is...The Headrick family has shared His time, his spirit and his love to not only help him live a dream but provide many people of all races, all walks of life and all points of orgin with something we can hold on to in our own special way forever...The spirit of kindness and the sport of DISC GOLF. I met ED while installing a new course in Modesto, California. Ed and Farina made the trip in the 5th wheel with the dogs in record time! His support, and dedication of his time not only touched a community it has inspired me to make it a lifes mission as well to carry on the grand ol sport of RECREATIONAL (leading to) PROFESSIONAL DISC GOLF. FLY WELL FOREVER...Sincerely, Joe Rotan RDGA #255 Joe Rotan <Rotan@aol.com> Oklahoma City, OK USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 18:25:25 (PDT) Ed, We will miss you. We loved you like a father and we were all you children. You gave us a sport and a way of life. I thank you for all the times we shared our way of life together. We have many fond memories of times we shared together both here in San Diego and at your old homested in Lakeport. Rest in peace and may all your putts in the life hereafter be gimmes. Your friend in disc play, Snapper Snapper Pierson USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 17:28:50 (PDT) Thanks Ed, for bringing frisbee into my world. I think back to the many conversations we had throughout my years of Disc in Northern California. I especially am grateful for the support and words of encouragement that you gave me when I was the PDGA commissioner. I won't forget your vision and hope that others will remember as well. I want Ed's family to know just how much his vision has brought years of happiness (as well as frustration!)to so many people. For those of us who knew him personally, beneath the gruff, he was a truly caring man. I'll miss you Ed, Lorin Lorin Smith <lorin.smith@attbi.com> Sacramento, CA USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 17:02:18 (PDT) Thanks for the sport . Roger F Rogers III <okdiskrat002@yahoo.com> Oklahoma City, Ok USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 10:57:02 (PDT) My heart goes out to Eds Family and the disc golf fans/etc, I actually cried a little this morning when I read about Ed passing away. Even though I didn't know him, from what I read on this site he sounded like a very nice man and was very generious in his daily life, etc. I'm sure all the disc golf community is mourning because of the loss of the found. I know that I am... Dolan Dolan McElmurry <drmfan@america.hm> santa cruz, ca USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 08:43:29 (PDT) My heart is heavy upon learning of the passing of our sports creator, our friend, the person that I & so many have been fortunate enough to have been touched by. I will always remember the warm smile he would give when ever approached, the enthusiasm for his creation, and sharing it with us all. My sincere condolences to his family for their loss, one that has impacted us all. Good bye Steady Ed, from one of many admirers, your friend, and in appreciation for giving disc golf to the world. Rest in peace . Kurt Lampkin PDGA #1471 Kurt Lampkin <frizwiz@direcway.com> Durango, CO USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 07:01:01 (PDT) Thinking of you from all of the oxdisc DG team. Jon T <oxdisc@thets.demon.co.uk> Oxford, UK - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 00:40:59 (Png at the hotel before pat drove him down to kendall and then to the hospital.....i wish i had more time for him that morning but i expected to see him talk to all at the players metting......never saw him again......just goes to show you that when you are speaking with someone that you are fond of take some time with them as you are never sure when you will see them again.....my wife (dawn) and daughter (lorelei #13697) join me in wishing ed's family the condolences from our family.......thanks for all that you have done for the sport.....keith johnson keith johnson <keith10444@aol.com> tucson, az USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 00:33:54 (PDT) Ed, I know that I speak for thousands of others when I say thank you for this great gift that you have left all of us with. It takes a very special individual to leave "his" mark on so many like you have. Disc golf has always been a constant in my life. It has been stable, even when the wind wasn't always at my back. I cannot thank you enough. I was fortunate enough to play a round with you in Appleton Wisconsin quite a few years ago. Thanks for the round Ed. I will never forget that day. God bless you and your family. Steve Held PDGA # 7257 Steve Held <Morphious100@hotmail.com> Sheboygan, WI USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 22:08:41 (PDT) You will be in our hearts forever! I will miss the great chats we had at the fly-mart over the years!!! Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends!! Thank You, For The Joy You Have Given To So Many People!! You will be So MISSED, Kim & Ed Burde Kim & Ed Burde <edburde@aol.com> Quinlan, Tx USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 21:39:03 (PDT) Ed, Thanks for a legacy that will bring countless millions joy for the rest of their lifes. A great man with such a passion for Disc Golf. You have touched us all and we are so much better because of you. See out on the course, I know you'll be out there watching over us. God Bless "Steady" Ed, his family and friends. His legacy lives on. Ed, Flip em flat and fly em straight! See you on the other side of the chains. Carl Cubbedge PDGA 14567 <acediscgolf@hotmail.com> NJ USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 21:21:59 (PDT) When I started this game in 1998 with 2 discs a driver and a putter I never knew that I would be this die-hard. I never got the pleasure to meet Steady Ed, but I am sure that the quote from Ed wrote in his tribute to Arthur K. ăSpudä Melin, applies to him as well ăLock the doors and bar the windows God. You have your hands full.ä This game is the best thing EVER!! Thanks for all you have done for this sport, I hope all those who play this game meet and surpass your expectations. Jeff Mitchell <Discgolfplace@earthlink.net> Mequon, WI USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 19:37:06 (PDT) As I sit here in tears, I think back on the 22 years that I have passionately played, organized and promoted the game of Disc Golf, and I have no one to blame but Ed for providing the vision and path to my madness...Thank you Ed...Jonna and I will miss your wit, your humor, and your indelible handsome and humble self...may you rest in peace, though I am sure you are already hard at work trying to convert some heaven goers to the way of the disc. Our only sadness, is that we could not make the open house on Saturday, to see you in person, however, we are already planning a party to honor your wonderful and forever giving life. With all of our love and respect. Marty Hapner & Jonna Hubling marty hapner <marty@discgolf.com> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 19:03:19 (PDT) As I sit here in tears, I think back on the 22 years that I have passionately played, organized and promoted the game of Disc Golf, and I have no one to blame but Ed for providing the vision and path to my madness...Thank you Ed...Jonna and I will miss your wit, your humor, and your indelible handsome and humble self...may you rest in peace, though I am sure you are already hard at work trying to convert some heaven goers to the way of the disc. Our only sadness, is that we could not make the open house on Saturday, to see you in person, however, we are already planning a party to honor your wonderful and forever giving life. With all of our love and respect. Marty Hapner & Jonna Hubling marty hapner <marty@discgolf.com> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 19:01:52 (PDT) As I sit here in tears, I think back on the 22 years that I have passionately played, organized and promoted the game of Disc Golf, and I have no one to blame but Ed for providing the vision and path to my madness...Thank you Ed...Jonna and I will miss your wit, your humor, and your indelible handsome and humble self...may you rest in peace, though I am sure you are already hard at work trying to convert some heaven goers to the way of the disc. Our only sadness, is that we could not make the open house on Saturday, to see you in person, however, we are already planning a party to honor your wonderful and forever giving life. With all of our love and respect. Marty Hapner & Jonna Hubling marty hapner <marty@discgolf.com> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 19:01:12 (PDT) As I sit here in tears, I think back on the 22 years that I have passionately played, organized and promoted the game of Disc Golf, and I have no one to blame but Ed for providing the vision and path to my madness...Thank you Ed...Jonna and I will miss your wit, your humor, and your indelible handsome and humble self...may you rest in peace, though I am sure you are already hard at work trying to convert some heaven goers to the way of the disc. Our only sadness, is that we could not make the open house on Saturday, to see you in person, however, we are already planning a party to honor your wonderful and forever giving life. With all of our love and respect. Marty Hapner & Jonna Hubling marty hapner <marty@discgolf.com> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 18:58:54 (PDT) Steady Ed - We'll all miss you. I would like to personally thank Steady Ed Headrick for being the wonderful person he was, and still is in our hearts, and for all he has done to bring the sport of disc golf into our lives. I truly enjoyed sharing his company in Kansas City for the Am Worlds in 1999 and was looking forward to meeting him again next year at the 2003 Worlds. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends who will no doubt miss him daily. Kevin Montgomery Kansas City Flying Disc Club Kevin Montgomery <kmontgomery@kc.rr.com> Lansing, KS USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 15:24:38 (PDT) I will miss you and rember all that you have taught me. -josh ăLock the doors and bar the windows God. You have your hands full.ä ăSteadyäEd josh orzech <steadyed@discgolfassoc.com> Santa Cruz, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 14:40:28 (PDT)
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