The River Reporter, November 4, 1993
EDITORIAL
A week ago the death of my father was reported in the pages of this newspaper. "He died walking for social justice," commented the editor. Bud Rue crossed the Upper Delaware River for the last time doing something he loved, for the good of the local community.
Since October 24 the tremendous outpouring of community support has been a great comfort to the family. On the 30th over 200 friends and relatives -- many more than expected -- packed a small Milanville church to overflowing, in celebration of the joyous aspects of Bud's life.
Over $2000 has come in thus far from the "Walk for Social Justice," including memorial contributions, all of which will benefit the causes for which Bud gave his life. The initial target was a mere $400. Plans have been made to hold similar charity events in Bud's memory on an annual basis.
Part way into the walk-a-thon, which he had organized, my father's breath and then his heart gave out. I can guess what some of his final thoughts were as he walked down the River Rd. toward Milanville. No doubt he admired the pastel leaves as he talked with friends in the brilliant autumn light. Those with him describe his mood as cheerful in anticipation of the walk ahead. He told me many times the peak of the fall foliage season was his favorite time of year.
It has not been unusual, for years, to hear my father strain for breath after even moderate physical stress. But he believed he could make this trip with no problem. When my wife, Carmen, questioned the wisdom of walking, Dad handed her a cartoon bearing the exhortation, "Don't ever give up."
Among my first thoughts, upon learning of the shocking loss, was to wish Carmen and I had walked with him. Although we intended to participate, after helping the plan the event, car trouble demanded we drop out at the last minute. But on reflection, I realze the he walked with many friends and was not alone.
Future organizers will learn from the absence of an ambulance or EMT on this event. It's not that precautions weren't taken. A sweep car followed behind to pick up walkers who grew tired. The driver called an ambulance, but Dad died in the car in the company of two friends, possibly after overmedicating himself with Ventolin asthma spray. Another lesson.
It is sadly ironic that in planning meetings it was my father who epressed concern about possible injuries sustained on the walk. He consulted an insurance agent about coverage but decided the premium would consume too much of the proceeds. So Dad made sure all the walkers, including himself, signed liability waivers certifying they had "full knowledge of the risks involved and... [were] physically able to participate in this activity."
Next year, we'll ask a local ambulance squad to share in the proceeds and provide support services along the route.
We celebrate existence on this mortal plane for the time allotted each of us. When my father's time ran out, he crossed to the summerland with admirable grace.
There are many things which have been, and which could be, said about Bud Rue and his works. Numerous epitaphs could be written. He gave his life to causes that too often do not rank high on political agendas. He was a generous, energetic man who loved life with passion and fullness, and leaves behind him a great emptiness that can only be understood by someone who has lost a loved one to death. This is part of being human.
At 59, he died younger than most of us would hope to. But he finished his walk through life with honor. He left our river valley, and the world, a better place than he found it.
So may it be for us all.
-- Tom Rue, contributing editor
Related external links
Bud Rue Memorial Walk for Social Justice
A website for Bud Rue
The Rue family in the U.S.A.
Above text is copyright by the author.
Duplication without permission is prohibited.