This afternoon at 13:30 hours I was pleased very pleased to attend the wedding of Fred Furlong and Rachel Gladieu. This day was years in coming and I think they hold the record for engagement without a doubt. They have been together for the 36 years I have known them and today they made it offical.

Rachel is one week younger that Fred and they tip the scales at 82 years young. I have never seen Rachel looking so pleased as she finally snagged Freddy. Fred has been famous for his escapes but today stood his ground and is now offically off the market.

The ceremony took place in the Chapel of the Yellowknife Stanton Hospital and was preformed by a justice of the peace. I think that Rachel has plans to do this again in a Catholic Chruch as that is her chosen faith.The chapel was full and I saw many folks that I haven't seen in a while. Always a pleasure to meet these folks and this day was for weveryone a day worth remembering.

I met Fred and Rachel when I was 17 and now I am 52 so we have been friends for a while. Much of what I know is compliments of Freddy and to him I have nothing but endless respect. Many of us that chose the bush as away of life learned much of its ways through Freddy's leadership. Fred was never really a leader but a friend that made sure things went the way they were supposed and that would learned what you needed to know by honest effort on your part. 

Fred has been many things over a very long life but first and foremost he is a Gentleman. He taught us well  that , Your word is your bond, men never hit women, speak the truth, to shoot straight, treat all with respect and you will earn yours in turn. Fred has showed no fear throught a long life except where Rachel is concerned as she can get quite angry at times and your better off some where else for awhile. Rachel however never stayed mad at us for long regardless of the stunts we pulled.

These people have spoiled me rotten since day one and for this I am grateful always. Thanks giving and Christmas every year for years and if I miss it you can be sure Rachel will remind me.

Of all the spots today I could have been, there was no other that I would have chosen.

For the friendship and helping hands over the years I can only wish it last another forty years.

Heres to Mr. and Mrs. Fredrick Furlong long life and happiness in this life and those that follow.

Say Fred has said many times "Freddy for short, Furlong furlong."

Congratulations to Uncle, Uncle and now I guess Auntie , Auntie Rachel for myself and his many friends, those that were there and the rest we know were there in spirit.