On Dec 29th Elmer Munk, a pioneer in the sport of Scuba Diving, passed away at his family home. Mark Zaloudek of Herald Tribune had this to say:
Elmer Munk Scuba Pioneer
Munk was an avid fisherman living in Evanston, Ill., when a newspaper article in 1956 about scuba diving caught his attention.
He took his first dive the following year and lobbied his local YMCA to offer a scuba diving course.
In 1959 he completed the Y’s first course nationwide for certifying diving instructors and instructor trainers, and by 1961 was teaching a scuba course at his Y.
“When I started diving it was literally just getting started in this country,” he told the Herald-Tribune.
Munk turned his hobby into a career when he opened Elmer’s Water Sports in the Chicago area in 1971.
He later helped develop courses in underwater search and rescue techniques, night diving and other advanced skills.(more)
I hope to make it as far as he did, and to be just as influential in this sport. Because of guys like Munk you’re able to enjoy your time underwater, so next time you’re at a dive site and you’re hoping that grizzled old dude with the ancient gear doesn’t start talking to you, take a step back and say hi, without guys, and gals, like them, we wouldn’t be enjoying this sport.
Become the old person in this sport yourself….
I’m so sorry that another GREAT ONE has passed away. It seems that all the good ones are movin on, but he’s moved on to a greater place than what we live in. The water can only bring nothing but life and if he’s gone; through his teaching has brought life to others. Especially in ways that can have such an impact in their life, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. I know that my 16 year old son has learned a different language under the sea that only the life underwater understands him. When he has gone diving he’s shared that it has brought him peace and clarity. What sixteen year old says that!!! KUDOS to a master that brings life to those searching for something deeper than themselves!
I’ll be waving to Munk in a few weeks in Belize. Thanks to those out there who pioneered this fantastic activity and to those who continue to improve and enjoy it!
Hugs and fishes,
Twotank