Today is a sad day. The world is a lesser place with the passing of Nevada Wise.

He was truly one of a kind. A husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. Retired Policeman, gunsmith, shooter, activist, and known by everyone. He was bigger than his namesake and larger than life.

He taught me how to shoot a shortgun more than 22 years ago, and has been a fine friend ever since. He always had a smile for his friends, and never hesitated to share his opinion with anyone.

It's never easy to say goodbye to a friend, but I consider myself lucky to have been counted as his friend.

I'll miss you Nevada. You were loved.

Mike   January 6, 2000

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The Officer stood and faced his God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, Officer.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To my church have you been true?"

The Officer squared his shoulders and
Said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at
Times my talk was rough,
And sometimes I've been violent, because
The streets are awfully tough.

"But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep.
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills just got too steep.

"And I've never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place
Among the folks here,
They never wanted me around except to
Calm their fear.

"If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand."

There was silence all around the throne
Where saints had often trod,
As the Officer waited quietly, for the
Judgement of his God.

"Step forward now, my Son. You've
Borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell.

~Author Unknown~

This is a poem written in the 60's
By Nevada. It vividly describes
his outlook on life.

My Wish

Could I my life but live,
Day by day - and each day

Enrich by one mite
The life or dreams of another-

A moment of happiness, in some small
kindness, 
Given a friend-

A gem of wisdom, in some small truth,
Given a child-

A moment of hope
Given a wayfarer-

A moment of courage
Given the fearful-

A helping hand
Lifts not only the fallen,
But in the very act,
Lifts me also-

Happiness given,
Produces happiness-

Wisdom instills wisdom-
Hope induces hope-
Courage provides courage.

And life is made fruitful
By the giving-

Each smile
A stepping stone-

Each kindness
A rung on life's ladder

Ascending to the apex
Of life's pathway-

Each day then overflows
With life's purpose,

And I soar to unknown heights
On golden wings-

Secure in the knowledge
That the life of another

Was thus enriched

By me......

Nevada Wise

If you have memories or stories of Nevada, you can post them here for those who loved him to share, or you can read what others had to say.

 Thank you.

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