Aaron Fraser Pass

Aaron Fraser Pass 66 of Flowery Branch

Outdoor industry stalwart Aaron Fraser Pass lost his battle with cancer today. Thankfully he left us with traces of his incredible knowledge and skill, which can be found in many magazines articles and columns he wrote over a 40-year career. Still, so much was lost with the man. His intellect and judgment were as keen as any before. His humor was quick, came easy and cut hard. His memory was unfailing. His character and ethic was genuine.

Aaron tried to sum himself up on his business card, which reads, "Have Gun. Will Travel." Granted, that did a pretty good job of capturing Aaron's essence, but anyone lucky enough to really know Aaron will tell you there was so much more.

Aaron was born in 1946 on a sometimes idyllic, usually hectic, often difficult north Georgia farm. He embraced the outdoor lifestyle early. His passion for all things firearms related was rooted in his interest in history, passion for our outdoor heritage, and simple act of putting food on the table. Few men possessed his detailed knowledge of guns and ammunition. If you wanted accurate information, authoritative copy or witty commentary on these topics, Aaron was your man.

Aaron certainly traveled far and wide with gun in hand. Those fortunate enough to travel with him experienced unparalleled sportsmanship, camaraderie and education. His preparation for trips included extensive research on the region's history, culture, plants and animals. Traveling with Aaron was usually better than hiring a local guide and often more entertaining.

Many will remember Aaron as a natural lighting rod for discourse-typically friendly. It wasn't that Aaron liked to argue; no doubt he would just as soon avoid confrontation. For those who did engage him in an intellectual difference, the problem was, Aaron was always right-not in the sense that he wouldn't accept your point, but in the sense that he had his facts, understood the implications, and was simply right. Period. Many such encounters ended over a friendly drink, with all parties feeling better for this discussion.

Those of us in the outdoor industry can only hope that other writers like Aaron will follow in his footsteps to carry on our traditions, our heritage our Second Amendment rights and, hopefully, to make us laugh really hard at least once a day.

The once-boisterous and always-entertaining Aaron Fraser Pass left us quietly. He didn't want to worry his friends with news of his illness. He wanted no sympathy calls or cards. He didn't even want this simple eulogy, but this isn't for you, Aaron. It's for your family and friends. We love you. You will be missed.

(Written by Family Friend Dodd Clifton of Columbus, GA)

Aaron is survived by his loving wife, Lynnell Pass of Flowery Branch. Daughter and son-in-law Sarah Elizabeth (Beth) and Darin Vogt of Gainesville. Son John Travis Pass of Montana. Son Michael Fraser Pass of Toccoa. Granddaughters Ava and Sophia Vogt of Gainsville.

Graveside Services will be held 4:00PM Monday April 8th at Lanier Island Community Church cemetery (former New Bethany Baptist Church). Visitation will be held Sunday April 7th at Memorial Park Funeral Home from 6-8 P: M.