May 7th

[Ken Hill]

On May 7, 2001 Steve Berman died while mapping the Devils system so if everyone will take a minute tomorrow to remember Steve and reflect on the thought that bad things can happen to good people.

I'd like to urge everone to use this day now and in the future to mentally prepare yourself for safe and great diving. Make sure your gear is squared away, regulators are serviced and take care of things that need to be tended to. If you've laid off for a while start in easy, the caves will still be here. The summer is here, think safe, be safe and enjoy your dives.

/Ken

[caverkevin]

Thanks for bringing this up. I think about Steve often. While diving and while working on his old rental house in Fort White. I don't really associate a person's life with the day of their passing. This time back in 2001 is still very vivid in my memory.

To the message of being careful. I still live by and quote Steve in saying "if you have three problems, it is time to start drinking beer" and "the best place to turn a dive is at the dock".

Cheers to Steve, one of the greatest people I have had the pleasure of knowing in my time.

Kevin

[Kelly Jessop]

On May 7, 2001

Steve was a good friend,and will be missed. I still carry the memorial from the service in my log book (May 8,2001)

[fno]

Thanks for the reminder Ken. It was a sad day for many of us when Steve passed away. Steve was and still remains an example of what we as cave divers should aspire to. He was always there with a wry smile to lend a hand, offer some advice (always good!!),loan a piece of gear, light off some explosives, and drink a beer with you after the dive.

[scooter]

On May 7, 2001 Steve Berman died while mapping the Devils system so if everyone will take a minute tomorrow to remember Steve and reflect on the thought that bad things can happen to good people.

I'd like to urge everone to use this day now and in the future to mentally prepare yourself for safe and great diving. Make sure your gear is squared away, regulators are serviced and take care of things that need to be tended to. If you've laid off for a while start in easy, the caves will still be here. The summer is here, think safe, be safe and enjoy your dives.

/Ken

Hi Ken,

Steve's tragedy caused me to re-evaluate myself and others approach to cave diving and the teaching of cave diving. That is why I have been such a PITA to so many people over the last eight years with respect to what we say and do publicly. I will never forget him, and what he gave to me.

Scooter Sellers

[cavediver256]

Thanks for the reminder Ken. Steve was a great friend as well as my apprentice/full cave instructor. I got way more than I paid for with that course !!! Hard to believe its been 8 years........