Ever since I remember being involved with GSL boating, I recall Don Lucas at the lake. With his characterisitic warm smile and helpful advise, Don exemplified everything that was great about sailing on the GSL.

Shortly after my family bought its second boat in 1975, a Ranger 26 named Renegade, Don hopped aboard and offered his assistance with everything you could imagine. He became our regular crew along with Bob Mucci, Tom Stout, Jim Amerault and a cast of others. Don was always there as we moved up through our Ranger 29, Peterson 34, Islander 36 and even when my folks bought their current Cloud 9....a CHB 34 trawler.

Don Lucas was a big believer in our new huge undertaking in the mid 90's when we began Salt Island Adventures and built 'Island Serenade'. He was one the first to congradulate us on bringing new "life" to the GSL and its tourism and attractions. He was also one of the last people to bid us farewell in April of 2008 when 'Island Serenade' ended her service on the lake and headed over the Sierras for the California Delta. I truly think Don Lucas was one of only half dozen GSL boaters that really appreciated what we tried to do for the lake over those decades.

Don Lucas was an amazing artist. My family has several of his watercolors displayed in our home. My favorite is a small watercolor of our Montgomery 10' beached on a remote Fremont Island shore. The oars of the dinghy are resting on the warm oolite sand ready to take us back to Cloud 9. The water was high enough to fill the little bay and reflects the high cirrus clouds and rocky peninsula to the west. It is signed by Don as 7-92. On the back of the painting is a notation: "Wes & Donna  Thank you for the many years of great friendship - you two are the greatest !!!"

I cannot say enough about what Don Lucas has given my family. It has gone far beyond a friend at the lake. He will truly be missed by this sailor and my family.

Fair winds, my friend

  Steve Ingram