IMO Patrick Gushue

IMO Patrick Gushue
by Judy Corbett Barker

Skipper Pat set sail with us on Sunday nights each week
His Boson Chuck was with us and never missed a beat

He loaded up the researchers who fast became good friends
Some were even cousins we discovered in the end

Pat's love for Newfoundland he shared with us those nights
His aim and his direction helped us see the light

Pat sailed around the coves and up and down the coast
We raised a few for Newfoundland and did a Newfie toast

He quizzed us on the native words and history of this land
For he truly loved it, this place called Newfoundland

Last year he didn't make the trip, a first for him, we know
He didn't want to tell us how he felt, how very low

Then, back he came in fall, to continue on the boat
Her name was Terra Nova and he kept her well afloat

He helped us find our heritage, our ancestors and more
His love and knowledge of this place were felt by all, for sure

Now Skipper Pat will sail no more, for he has gone to rest
A life cut short by sickness, God knows he did his best

He'll be with us in spirit as Chuck hoists up the sails
We'll still be there on Sunday nights remembering Pat's tales

He'll save a special place for us when our ship has to land
For we know God has reservations for all from Newfoundland