**JEFF WEAR**

[Karen Politte]

I was contacted by a relative of Jeff Wear - and seeing as I seem to be the first to hear about this terrible news - the task befalls me to get the word out. There is really nothing I can add at this moment. We are all shocked. Jeff Wear died on Monday morning, July 11th, 2005, while returning from chasing Hurricane Dennis.

Karen Leszke
_________________________________________________

The following is an excerpt from an email received from Jeff Wear's Uncle, David Wear. His email address is dwear@rhainc.com .

"Jeff's mother Marilyn Wear on Monday morning at 9am received a call from the police about the accident. It happened in Kilgore, Tx. They left from Turlock, CA to Texas yesterday to take care of everything. This is so sad and awful because they are alone and broken. Jeff was their oldest son and Matt was his younger brother. My brother and sister-in-law do not know how they are going to get through this. I think you know how important the weather was to Jeff. He had devoted his life to weather and that is why he moved to Norman, OK.

The state trooper said he was traveling at probably a safe speed for the conditions but his car hydroplaned off the road and into an on coming semi-truck. He was apparently killed on impact as no ambulance was called. Our family is in shock and if you could, please post this sad news so that other of his friends or associates know what happened.

Thanks so much for your response.

Sincerely,

David Wear,

Fresno, CA "

_________________________________________________

(Moderators - please feel free to move this post if it is incorrectly placed. In view of the subject's importance - I have cross-pollenated this with Everything Else so as to assure people will see it)

Moderator note: Jeff Wear fit the classic definition of a storm chaser. All of us at ST are saddened to hear of this tragedy. We give our sincerest condolences to the family.

[Aaron Kennedy]

Jeff was a nice guy. I had the oppurtunity to meet him at several OUN chaser gatherings and I ran into him time-to-time (he lived at same aprt. complex as me for a few years). I saw him often on the road. He was one of those chasers that was always out there, and was never associated with anything negative.

His website is at:

http://www.theperksofchasing.com

Here is his bio:

For all those who may be wondering just who is Jeff Wear, where is Jeff Wear, and what did Jeff Wear....

Some people call me a storm chaser. Others call me a long haired freak with big eyebrows, big teeth, big feet, and a big head. A few may even call me that weirdo who put an upside down tornado in his avatar. Whatever you call me, I am a native of that haven for severe weather that is the San Joaquin Valley of California. Actually this area does experience some severe weather from time to time, and the flat, treeless farmland and clear, dry air that is characteristic of this region provided for some stunning sky scenes the .0004% of the time we did see severe weather. Growing up in an area with such an unobstructed view of the sky also gave me appreciation for the sky the 99.9996% of the time we weren't having severe weather.

Although I am primarily interested in the visual aspect of weather these days, my interest in weather developed from my interest in math. Beginning at age 6, I would always make sure I read the weather section of the newspaper and watched the weather segment of the TV news every day, as these were always filled with numbers. My interest in math disappeared around 7th grade when they started introducing letters, shapes, and Greek symbols, but by then I had already become hooked on the visual aspect of weather so that interest continued. I can trace my interest to tornadoes to an even earlier age, as I can recall being fascinated by the vortex caused by the draining bathtub at age 3.

I moved from California to Oklahoma in August 1999 to attend the University of Oklahoma, and settled in Norman permanently in January 2001. I did some "chasing" in California as early as 1996, but my chase career in the Plains began in 1998, when I took a week long trip out to the Plains with a group of chasers I met on Prodigy's Weather Bulletin Board and CompuServe's TWCForum. Since 2001 most of my chasing has been done solo within a 300 mile radius of Norman, although on occasion I will take longer trips. I have chased as far north as Nebraska and as far east as Illinois, and in 2004 I traveled to the Gulf Coast to intercept a hurricane for the first time. I enjoy interacting with others who share my enthusiasm for severe weather and tornadoes, so if you would be interested in contacting me my e-mail address is jckssjeff@yahoo.com.

Following is a picture of my chase vehicle. If you see this vehicle out in the field, feel free to stop and say hi!

Aaron

[nickgrillo]

What horrible news... I never got to meet Jeff in person, but knew Jeff via the forums... I will keep his family in my prayers.

Jeff, we'll miss you.

[Shane Adams]

I met Jeff at a chaser party in 2004, and since then only ran into him a few times. Despite not having gotten to know him, I do know that he was very much his own man, and he knew exactly who he was and what he wanted to do. I think it's awesome that he was living his dream, like so many other chasers. I take comfort in knowing he was doing what he loved to do at the time of his passing.

My deepest condolences to the entire Wear family & friends.

[George Tincher]

I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear of this terrible news. I only knew Jeff via this board, but he was someone who I respected and was a valuable member of the chase community. He will be missed greatly.

And for his family and friends, I pray that God eases their pain and grief and gives them the strength they'll need to get through this tragic and difficult time.

Jeff died far too young. There's nothing that can be said that will make what happened a pleasant thing. But there is some comfort to be found in knowing that he had the opportunity to live his dream of chasing. Very few people actually to get to achieve their dreams, even those who live long lives. Yet Jeff did so. And he did so at a very young age. And he died while returning from doing what he loved.....chasing.

Again, hearing this just left me feeling like someone punched me in the stomach. I really don't know what else to say. Is there anything that we as a group can do? Cards? Flowers? Donation on behalf of one of Jeff's favorite charities? Perhaps a tribute of some sort on the main Storm Track page where his friends can contribute words or stories? News like this leaves me wanting to do something, but what I'm not sure.

[Gayla Drummond]

Oh, my God....this is just horrible. We'll send our condolences to Jeff's uncle.

[Caleb Lawrence]

I can't even begin to compile what to say, except to say that what I have read of his on here, he was a good guy, and someone who will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff Wear's family and friends. I'm sorry for your loss.

Rest In Peace, Jeff.

[Andy Wehrle]

How horrible. I did not know Jeff personally athough I enjoyed reading his website and his posts here on ST. My thoughts are with the Wear family.

[Amos Magliocco]

This is terrible news. No life should end so quickly at such a young age. I met Jeff a handful of times over the years and he always struck me as someone who loved to be under the sky. Chase on, friend.

Amos

[David Wolfson]

Terrible news. I enjoyed his posts and photos, and he was someone I hoped to meet sometime....

[Dick McGowan]

Wow. I can't even imagine what his family is going through right now. Never met the guy, but heard lots of great things about him. This is a real eye-opener and my deepest sympathies go out for his family. Stormtrack will miss you, bud.

Dick

[Dan Robinson]

I too am shocked and saddened to hear about this. I have seen Jeff a few times while chasing, as we were on many of the same storms during the past two years. He was a fixture in the chase community and his web site, photos and chase reports are one of the ones that I visit regularly.

My prayers go out to Jeff's family and friends.

[Gerard Jebaily]

I was never able to meet Jeff personally, but i saw him out on a few chases, his liscence plate "COPUNCH" was always recognizable. Im sad to hear about this. My prayers are with his family.

[Paul Stofer]

I'm sorry to hear this. I never really knew him, or met him except on StormTrack, but from what I've heard he was a great guy. His biography explains him great. Very open and extremly enthusiastic and willing to share his passion and talk with anyone about weather. He will truely be missed. God bless You dude.. My prayers are with Jeff's family and all of his friends...

[Jim Tang]

This is terrible news, people shouldn't die at such a young age. Didn't know Jeff, but read many of his posts. He was a wonderful guy. Deepest condolences to him and his family. We will pray for him and his family.

This was his last post:
Barring an unforseen jog to the right that takes it into the west coast of Florida, I'm strongly considering going after this one. I'll be making a go/no go decision sometime tomorrow. I'd be willing to exchange cell phone numbers with anyone else who plans on being in the area....PM if interested.

A fateful decision, but I know that if he wanted to die one way, it would be out chasing and enjoying life while one can...

RIP Jeff...may God bless you.

[Bill Hamilton]

This is very sad news for everyone.
My family and I wish to extend our condolences to his family and friends. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting him I know he will be highly missed by his loved ones and in the chasing community.

[mikedeason]

About 10 years ago, there was a smart ass kid who use to terrorize a lot of people in The Weather Channel forum on Compuserve with his offbeat, and sometimes unsettling brand of humor. Naturally, being someone who loves absurd humor, I eventually was won over by the guy and we developed a friendship (along with a few other compadres along the way) which lasted, regrettably to say, until just a few weeks back. That kid was Jeff Wear.

I won't comment on what happened which created the rift between us. It was probably the sort of thing which would have probably eventually healed with time. What I will say is this. The community has lost a guy who had an extreme passion for what he did and definitely paid his dues over the years. Just go back to our chases in 1998 and 2003, for example, to understand how much futility we sometimes had to deal with.
Jeff never let those days get to him though. He could take the crappiest chase day on the Plains and somehow have you busting a gut laughing by the time you were settling in for the night at the next nameless and forgetable motel down the road.

I was to chase with Jeff again this past June, but circumstances came up which prevented this from happening. The last time I got to see Jeff was at the 2004 convention:

http://deasonfamily.net/images/JeffW.jpg

I always looked forward to meeting up with Jeff again, not only because of his sense of humor, but because the guy loved to talk storms as well. If there's any doubt about his dedication to the hobby, look no further than his signature license plates.

I'm sorry if my post is disjointed and incoherent, but it's really hard to know what feelings you're supposed to have at a time like this. I've never had anyone outside of my family that I considered myself close to who died so tragically and unexpectedly.

I'll just wrap it up by saying for the 10 years or so I knew Jeff, he was definitely one of those people you encounter on life's journey who makes you glad you went along for the trip.

Peace Jeff.

Mike

[Sheila_Ward]

Horrible news. My thoughts and prayers are with Jeff's family and friends.

[j_r_hehnly]

I'm very sorry to hear this. I remember seeing him at Rocky's picnics. Never got to know him, though. A genuine chaser.
My thoughts and prayers to his family.

[Steve Miller TX]

I'm totally stunned and deeply saddened by this. My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to Jeff's family as they deal with such a sudden and horrible tragedy. I never met him in person, but got to know him through the numerous exchanges on here. It won't be the same anymore as a vaccuum will ceretainly be present in my mind. What a tragedy for us all, his friends, family, and the whole stormchasing community to lose Jeff. He will certainly be missed but never forgotten.

I hope and pray that now he can "chase" anywhere and anytime he wishes without earthbound burdens. From now on as we gaze up into the heavens to wonder and behold the power of mother nature, I know he'll be there with us in spirit.

God Bless. Peace.

[mikegeukes]

I am sadden by this news, I never met Jeff. I did enjoy reading his posts to the forum, My prayers go out to his family and friends.

Mike

[Joe Nield]

While we may never meet half the people we come to call our compatriots in this hobby or this field, the loss of anyone, especially at such a young age, is no less shocking.

May his family and friends here and elsewhere take comfort in the degree to which he obviously touched the lives of those around him, evidenced even here by the outpouring of sadness.

In the end, that is really all that any of us can hope for, to have touched as many lives as possible before the end.

[Joe Zemek]

What a tragedy. My condolences and sympathy to his family and friends. He was clearly a vital member of this community and will be missed.

[Mike Mezeul II]

I never got the opportunity to meet Jeff, I knew him just through his posts on Stormtrack. I am greatly saddened to hear of this tragic accident and my prayers go out to his family and friends. Jeff sounds like an amazing man, and one whos love for mother nature and dedication to chasing was incredible. We will all miss you.

Rest in Peace Jeff

[Colin Davis]

Jeff's untimely passing somberly reminds us that the perils of chasing lie not just within the tornadoes, the hail, or the lightning, but within the water, the people, and the blacktop, as well.

I never had the pleasure of meeting Jeff, unfortunately. I viewed his site on numerous occasions; however, and learned some of his personality traits on ST. Through his demeanor in the threads, his upside-down tornado avatar, and his license plate, we learned quite a bit about Jeff.

Things will be different in the chase community, that is a definite. My sincere condolences go out to Jeff's family and friends. The storm chase community is behind you.

Jeff, you said it numerous times in your blog. Allow me to repeat the words.

Thanks for stoppin' by. Please, come again.

[Melissa Moon]

Wow...I am completely shocked, and completely saddened. I never knew Jeff, but he was part of the family of chasers we are and I am completely saddened. So sad to lose someone, especially someone young. Reminds me just how precious life really is. If anyone finds out any funeral information, please post asap. If it will be held in Norman, I would like to attend.

[Darin Brunin]

From the beginning when reading Jeff's posts on this forum I could tell that he was a true class act. It is hard to understand how a guy that brought as much happiness to the people around him as Jeff did could be taken away at such a young age. My condolences go out to his family and friends. You will truly be missed Jeff.

[Graham Butler]

There is not much I could say which has not already been said. This is a shock to the community and it brings a tear to my eye seeing what people have said about someone they have never met. They have said it best and with them I must agree. Rest in Peace Jeff.

Jeff, this mesos for you.

-gb

[Jeff Miller]

Rest in Peace.

[APritchard]

Barring an unforseen jog to the right that takes it into the west coast of Florida, I'm strongly considering going after this one. I'll be making a go/no go decision sometime tomorrow. I'd be willing ...

Those were Jeff's last words on the ST forum. I was informed not 30 minutes before reading about Jeff's passing that a friend of mine lost their mother in a car accident this morning. Jeff's words, and the two tragic deaths remind us that every moment is precious...every decision we make, could make all the difference. Never take anything for granted. RIP

[Jason_Politte]

I never had the opportunity to know Jeff personally, but always enjoyed reading his posts on Storm Track, especially regarding the California tornadic events. He will be missed and remembered.

My condolences to his family and friends.

Jason Politte

[Rob_Davis]

Wow. Being so new here, I feel amost unqualified to post in this topic. I am slowly getting to know some of the people that I did not already know through WX-CHASE. And I had been to Jeff's website before. But I deeply regret that I never got to know him. He was obviously both a credit to the hobby and to humanity as a whole. A man like that will surely be missed.

Apritchard is right. Never take anything for granted. Let's be safe out there.

My sincerest sympathies to Jeff's friends and family, and my thanks for sharing him with us through the years.

[Jeff Gammons]

This is very sad to hear. I just learned of this on Amos's blog. I only knew Jeff from this forum and the convention. My condolences to the Wear family. --- Rest In Peace, Jeff.

[Mike Peregrine]

This is indeed saddening news. My heart goes out to his loved ones. I had come to really enjoy Jeff's posts and reports. He will be greatly missed under the skies out here.

[Blake Michaleski]

Terrible and sad news. i never met him but I do recall alot of his posts. A true chaser indeed.

May God rest his soul...

[Joel Wright]

Terrible news. My deepest condolences to family and friends. :cry:

[Jay Cazel]

My sincerest condolences to the Wear family and Jeff's friends.

[cdcollura]

Good day everyone,

I am VERY sad to hear about this. I can only express my best wishes and condolences towards his friends and family. At least he passed on doing what he enjoyed doing.

May he rest in peace and chase for all eternity ... No traffic jams, no roadblocks, no busts ... Just beautiful storms forever.

[Adam Taylor]

How Horrible. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

[Glen Romine]

What amazingly sad news. My deepest condolences to the Wear family and friends. While I did not ever have the pleasure of meeting Jeff, I too enjoyed his contributions to the chasing community - and he will be sorely missed.

Glen

[John Diel]

Though I never met him, I did read his posts and enjoyed his experiences through ST. I pray for his family and friends through time time of trial. Requiem in Pace.

[Gabe Garfield]

I can't say anything more than what has been said, though I feel compelled to repeat it: Jeff will be greatly missed. I thoroughly enjoyed not only his presence on this message board but reading his chase logs on his website. Though I never had the pleasure of meeting him personally, his loss has no less affected me. My prayers are with Jeff's family.

Gabe

[Ben Cotton]

I was one of the first ST people to find out about this, I guess. I read Karen's post in EE before she had the chance to re-post in W&C. I was slightly inebriated at the time, so I figured that's why I was almost brought to tears. Nope. Its the morning, and this still really hits hard. I never knew Jeff beyond seeing his posts on ST. I had never gone to his website, never met him at a convention or in the field. Now I regret that.

For all the bickering, mockery, and ill-will that goes on among chasers, both on and off the board, its refreshing to see that for a moment at least, we can set aside our pettiness and express our hearfelt condolences for a fallen homie. The storm chasing "community" is more like a slightly dysfunctional family. We never get along with each other, but we all band together in time of need. Our family has lost a brother today, one who brought a lot of heart to our hobby.

I think most of us, when we die, hope that the people who survive us remember us fondly. That we have made an impact on those around us. Jeff Wear was fortunate enough to have done that. His family doesn't need to wonder "did his life make a difference?" So far this morning, 40 people have already replied expressing the loss they feel. Most of these people have never met Jeff, such as myself, but the fact that the loss is no easier to take is a profound indication on the effect he had on all of us.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Jeff Wear...



Ben

[Lisa Wadlow]

OMG I'm so sad. What a loss. I don't even know what to say.

[Tim Vasquez]

Jeff Wear, with user ID #3 and none before him, is the very first person who comes up in our user list (http://www.stormtrack.org/forum/memberlist.php) (even before me, as I had wiped out two earlier versions of my administrator account). This also indicates he was one of the very first members of the ST board (if not THE first). Good to see he will keep a position of honor.

He accrued 967 posts, which you can read here (http://www.stormtrack.org/forum/search.php?search_author=Jeff+Wear), or look at his profile (http://www.stormtrack.org/forum/profile.php?mode=viewprofile&u=3).

Tim

[Karen Politte]

Yes - it's the morning - and no, a loss like this will not fade with time. Not from last night to his morning - and not from this year to next year. Especially within a community such as the chasing community - which prides itself on caring for others and the camarederie found while under a cloud of water vapor.

Events like this make a lot of emotions and thoughts seep to the surface. Perhaps we should all tolerate each other a bit more and dispell a lot of our bickering (which is only natural in a large group of people). But more importantly - thoughts of the sheer futility - as well as fragility - of life. I am sure all of us on here upon reading this news thought the same thing - "It easily could have been me". Through all the miles we clock in the wee hours between nightfall and dawn, the extended 12 hours drives to get into position, and the determined driving during some of the worst conditions to get where we need to be - we are all at an increased risk of such accidents. Nobody is invincible - and tragic things befall the most unassuming sometimes.

We should keep those who are close to us even closer these days - and news like this drives that home. Try to find a goodness in each day - don't waste your life doing something you hate or hating something you do. At least as chasers - we can say we are trying to live our dreams.

I never met Jeff. When you first hear news like this - it doesn't seem possible - we go into denial. Someone so true and known to us all is suddenly *not there*. As humans we're not really equipped with the hardware to understand that, at first.

My thoughts are with Jeff - and his family at this time of sadness.

Karen

[Karen Politte]

I would also like to add that Jeff's family have put out a call for help and information about Jeff's activities before the accident. They are trying to find out if anybody saw him or knew where he was before Monday morning's events.

If you chased Dennis or spoke to him recently, or knew his movements over the weekend after his last post to this forum that has been quoted in previous pages here, please contact his uncle, David Wear, at:

dwear@rhainc.com

Thank you,

Karen

[Blake W. Naftel]

I first met Jeff back in February 2003 at the Colorado Storm Chasers Convention. I recall him quietly sitting at a table alone when I introduced myself. We struck up a conversation about humerous chase experiences and swapped videos; one favorite segment of mine being the "bird swarm" of 2002 in which Jeff was accosted by a large swarm of Grackles while videotaping a gust front.

Jeff was a very dedicated and passionate chaser, and certainly will be missed. My most heartfealt condolences go out to the entire Wear family.

..Blake..

[Darren Addy]

I never met Jeff Ware, but the Stormtrack flag is clearly at half-mast in his memory. I appreciate his humor from his Member Page:Occupation: rather depressing

If I could speak to him now I'd say: "It got you where you wanted to go, Jeff".

Condolences to all of Jeff's friends and family.

Darren Addy
Kearney, NE

[Jeff Snyder]

I think Karen summed it up very well for me. This is something that ALL of us risk; whether we're the chaser who drives 1000 miles to a target non-stop, or the chaser who drives 2 minutes to get a good view of a storm as it comes into his town, we ALL end up on the roads in the worst of conditions. We've all hydroplaned; we've all risked life and limb to see nature are her best. Unfortunately, a member of our community took the risk, the same risk many of us take time after time, year after year, with a tragic outcome. This fact, along with the fact that he was a fellow Norman-ite, is most saddening. I always got a kick out of reading his "COPUNCH" license plate on his vehicle. My condolences are extended to the entire Wear family, and all of those chasers who know him better than I know of him.

[Nick Benson]

My thoughts are with his family. Echoing some others here, I never had the opportunity to meet him, but I certainly noticed him here on Stormtrack. What a loss.

This is a good reminder of how important a set of good tires is - I don't know that Jeff's tires were in bad shape, but I know that mine are and I need to get them replaced ASAP.

May he rest in peace.

[Jeremy Lemanski]

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

[Justin Teague]

This is extremely sad. I am among those that had never met Jeff, but I too have read his posts and I had nothing but respect for him.(and I loved his avatar!) I will keep his family and friends, including Stormtrack, in my prayers.


This is a good reminder of how important a set of good tires is - I don't know that Jeff's tires were in bad shape, but I know that mine are and I need to get them replaced ASAP.

It is very important that you have good tires on your chase vehicle. I would recommend tires with aquatread.

[Jeff Snyder]

More information regarding the accident can be found in the following online newspaper article regarding the accident:

http://www.news-journal.com/news/content/n...12LNJfatal.html (http://www.news-journal.com/news/content/news/stories/2005/07/12/20050712LNJfatal.html)

[David Drummond]

I spoke with Jeff's uncle about his website, since I have had the pleasure of being able to host it for over a year now. I offered to them to allow it to remain on our server for free for as long as we have a server to host it on, so that Jeff's work could remain online for anyone that wants to review it.

He said they were wondering about what to do with it, since they have always followed Jeff's detailed accounts about his chasing and didn't want to lose that. Awaiting final approval from his parents, Jeff's site will always have a home.

[Amos Magliocco]

David, this is a great thing and I think a lot of people will appreciate the chance to enjoy Jeff's fine writing and imagery. Thanks!

Originally posted by David Drummond
Jeff's site will always have a home.

[David Drummond]

Originally posted by Amos Magliocco+--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Amos Magliocco)</div>David, this is a great thing and I think a lot of people will appreciate the chance to enjoy Jeff's fine writing and imagery. Thanks!

<!--QuoteBegin-David Drummond
Jeff's site will always have a home.[/b]

No need to mention it Amos. I felt like it was the very least I could do. I was just thinking the other day, if something happened to me, what would happen to all my chasing stuff, and I would like for my site to go on, so in this regard , it's a little something I can do for them.

I believe they are going to write something for me to put up on the front page of his website as well.

[Joseph Tyree]

This is very sad. I never had the opportunity to meet Jeff, however from reading his posts and site, he sounded like a great guy. His family and friends are in my prayers.

[Tim Vasquez]

With Jeff's uncle's approval, Tim Marshall and I will be sending a letter to his family on behalf of the Stormtrack community.

Tim

[Stuart Robinson]

Very sad news - I only met Jeff the once - during Hurricane Ivan in Mobile. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.

[Karen Politte]

Originally posted by Tim Vasquez
With Jeff's uncle's approval, Tim Marshall and I will be sending a letter to his family on behalf of the Stormtrack community.

Tim

Excellent, Tim. Some comfort can be taken from knowing your condolencies are being heard collectively - and Stormtrack, ultimately, always looks after its own.

David - I think the offer you made to Jeff's relatives about keeping his website up indefinitely is extremely chivalrous and commendable. That's the spirit.....

Karen

[David Drummond]

Tim, if you are sending this via regular main, perhaps you could cut and print everyone's comments about Jeff to send with it, so they could see how we all felt about him? I know they could visit it on here, but if your sending a printed letter, having it in print might be nice.

[Angie Norris]

I met Jeff a few years back at one of the Stormtrack picnics. I never really talked with him, but I got the impression of a quiet, good man.
My deepest condolences to his friends and family.
Jeff, you may no longer be here with us, but every time we look up, you'll be there. Chase on, Jeff.
Angie

If anyone knows if there will be a memorial service here in Norman, can you post it, please?

[Ben Prusia]

My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Jeff Wear, this tragedy has struck the storm chasing community and it has affected all. His posts on ST were very intriguing and he will always deserve a spot at the top of the ST memberlist.

This is a good reminder of slowing down during times of inclement weather on the highways of tornado alley. Take an extra few minutes on the drive and live, the life you save may be your own or somebody else's.

[Jeff Lawson]

Clearly, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Jeff's family.

Whether I've met Jeff in real life or not, I can't say. That's beside the point, though. In the field, we all travel together.

[Tim Vasquez]

Jeff's uncle has vouched for our proposal to mail a letter to his parents. I will extract most of the text in this thread, with author citations, to be sent as an attachment to the cover letter.

Everyone has up until midnight CDT tonight to be included in the letter to his family, but don't write more than a paragraph or two or it will have to be edited. If you wish to exclude something you have previously posted, let me know.

Tim

[Tim Johnson]

Like so many others here, I too have never personally met Jeff, but his screen name is very familiar on ST and very much an icon on the site. I have also visited his website on several occaisions and enjoyed his work there. He will be sorely missed.

My prayers go out to Jeff's family during this time of loss.

[Derek Deroche]

Just heard of the very sad news...my deepest condolences to Jeff's family.

May he rest in peace...I'm sure he'll be watching over the plains for us.

[Steve Miller OK]

I met Jeff several times on the plains and various picnics and conventions. His contribution to the chase community in the form of forecasting, humor and overall passion will be missed and unmatched.

[Rocky Rascovich]

I'm shocked by Jeff's death...I did'nt know him personally but I certainly knew of him. Come to think of it, I'm almost certain that we have met somewhere while chasing and possibly here at the farm for one of my stormtrack picnics....

This is just a reminder to live everyday to its fullest...because none of us never knows when that final day arrives.

My deepest condolences to Jeff's family and friends.

Rocky&family

[Chris Sokol]

Summer and I wish to express our condolences to Jeffs family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Jeff was an inspirational member of the chase community. His knowledge, viewpoints, and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Fair winds Jeff...and farewell.

[Dave Kaplow]

This is truly awful news. This is a genuine tragedy for the chaser community and for everyone here at Stormtrack. Jeff will definitely be missed. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

I never got the chance to meet Jeff in person, which is a damn shame because I can see that he and I would have got along well together. Jeff's death is a tragic reminder that when all is said and done, the most dangerous part of chasing by far is the driving. Never take the road for granted.

[Eric B'Hymer]

My heart goes out to all of Jeff's Family and Friends. Although i never perosnally met him while chasing, i have seen him drive by on some of the storms i have been on too. I will say a prayer tonite for the family.

Godspeed Jeff

[Dan Cook]

Rest in Peace Jeff.

Even though I never met him personally, I always enjoyed reading his posts here and talking to him on AIM.

You will be missed.

[Jay Barnes]

Hi Everyone,

I don't post up here a whole lot, but I wanted to personally thank everyone for all their kind words about Jeff. Jeff was one of my chase partners, whom I've known since 1998. He and I have chased together almost every year since then during my vacation time, and I occasionally would nowcast for him, the last time was during Hurricane Ivan. We made our last chase trip just a few weeks ago, little did I realize that would be our last chase trip together.

Off season, Jeff and I would talk fairly often via Yahoo Instant messanger and and exchange weather pictures via email, especially if we knew the weather would be active in Oklahoma or in and around Austin where I live.

Last night at 11:35 Mike Deason called me with the news, I was so shocked all I could say to him was "is this a joke?". (Mike, bud, I apologize again for that!) I can't remember when the last time I heard news that caught me off guard like that...I really didn't even know what to say. I wanted to post something to the forum last night, but I just couldn't put the words together. Today is a little easier but still such a tremendous shock...I still have the video from our chase this year in the video camera.

Jeff was a very good forcaster, writer, photographer and chaser, and made a couple of awesome chase videos he put on DVD. It was rare that if we went out on a chase that we would bust...even if we didn't see a tornado on our trips, we almost always wound up with some new weather phenomenon to experience that would make the trip just as much fun. I'd also like to say that Jeff had just replaced the tires on his car, I had seen them just a few weeks ago and his car looked like it was in great shape. And all the times I chased with Jeff he was a very safe and careful driver, obeyed the speed limit at all times during our chases. I felt very safe with him driving my vehicle, I just can't imagine what could have caused the accident.

Personally I'd like to thank everyone for all the kind words as I know Jeff would have been touched (he was VERY fond of the upside down tornado avatar!!). He loved posting to the Stormtrack forum and being a part of such a great group of folks. I would especially like to say thank you to Tim Vasquez and David Drummond for helping to preserve Jeff's presence in the storm chasing community by keeping his posts and website alive, that would have meant alot to him.

Jeff was very close to his family. He talked about them often and I can't imagine how hard this must be for them, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers!

I'd like to share a couple of pictures with you all - these very well may be the last pictures of Jeff, taken by me on our last chase trip together.

Jeff, you'll be missed, may God Bless you.

-Jay Barnes

http://www.jrbarnes.com/jw_gb1.jpg
http://www.jrbarnes.com/jw_gb2.jpg

[Tim Vasquez]

Stormtrack is accepting donations for Jeff's family.

Paypal: jeffwear@stormtrack.org

A certain amount (in the $50 to $100 range) will be used to send flowers to the family on behalf of the Stormtrack community. Any funds above and beyond that will be sent as a check weekly or monthly to his parents to help them cover expenses.

Tim

[Robin Tanamachi]

My sincerest sympathies to Jeff's family. I did not know Jeff personally, but as a fellow chaser and member of the OU community, I am shocked and saddened to learn of his death. I am just about Jeff's age, and the thought of having my life cut short at this stage is extremely sobering.

I was involved in a (much less severe) hydroplaning accident earlier this year, and would like to re-emphasize the dangers associated with driving too fast on wet roads. Those few seconds between the realization that I had no control over my vehicle and striking the other vehicle were some of the most frightening of my life. I hope no other chaser ever has to have that experience.

I didn't want this post to turn into a PSA, but Jeff's tragedy should make us all think more carefully about our speed on wet roads. In that way, hopefully, some good can come out of this terrible loss.

Peace, Jeff.

[George Tincher]

Is there a non-paypal way to contribute? I don't have that capability.

BTW, thanks for doing this. It will allow everyone to be able to "do something" that will both help the family and hopefully give themselves an emotional boost. The worst feeling associated with something like this is the feeling of helplessness and not being able to do anything.

[Tim Vasquez]

George -- for credit cards you can use my business site at:
http://www.weathergraphics.com/makepayment.htm
and put very clearly that it's for Jeff Wear, though I prefer people use Paypal. If it's a check, you could just send it directly to the family (contact me via PM for an address).

Anyway for further questions just contact me via PM or start a separate thread, as I hate to taint this thread with money discussions.

Tim

[Jimmy Deguara]

Now that I have seen a picture, I know now that David Croan and I met and spoke to Jeff at a chaser picnic at Rocky's. It was a great conversation from the word go and do recall he came from CA. This is certainly tragic news. My thoughts go to the family.

Jimmy

[mark humpage]

I never knew Jeff, but along with many other UK chasers (who do not use this forum) we would express our sincere sympathy to his family and friends.

It is a sad day in the chase community.

RIP Jeff and many a thought will be spared for you on my next chase.

Mark (and UK chase community)

[S.P. McCool]

I'm really sorry to hear this. Rest in peace Jeff.

[jaybarnsmith]

I didn't get a chance to meet Jeff but it sounds like he was a great guy. I'm sadden by the loss of anyone with a passion for weather and storm chasing. Condolences to all of Jeff's friends and family.

[Susan Strom]

Wow, what incredibly sad news. I just got in from out of town and am just catching up. Jeff Wear is a well known name in chasing. He will surely be missed by all of us. What a tragedy.

[Bobby Eddins]

So sad to loose a great sense-of-humor in an instant.

Prayers for strength go out to Jeff's family.

[Phillip Hurlbut]

Rest in Peace Jeff. My sympathies go to his family in their time of crisis.

--Phillip

[Kyle Flannigan]

I feel like I have just been hit with a CG from out of nowhere!

I never even met Jeff, but he was a regular here and losing a chaser to such an unfortunate cause is always deeply saddening.

R.I.P. Jeff...may be there an endless supply of supercells and no existance of SDS up there!

[fplowman]

What a downer. I didnt personally know Jeff but we will miss his posts and presence in our community. We are all mortals as this shows. Each of us know the dangers of our sport/hobby and see it now tragically firsthand. I am deeply sadened as i know most others are in the chasing community. My condolences.

RIP - Jeff Wear.

[Dave Lewison]

I must echo everyone's thoughts...my deepest condolences to Jeff's family and close friends on this terrible loss. I can't say I knew him personally, but I've seen his insightful posts here and his unique sense of humor always made for interesting reading.

It clearly illustrates that we can't take any moment for granted. Being storm chasers, we have the privilege to witness the awesome displays of Mother Nature. It reminds us to appreciate each moment, from the mundane to the spectacular.

Is anyone compiling a list of these posts? I think Jeff's family and friends would very much appreciate the wonderful things that have been said about him here.

[Joe Guerra]

Wow, this is a huge shock. As I was reading this earlier, I saw some amazing lightning out of my window, I knew he would have loved it. You know how tight the chasing is when even though I never met him personally, I feel a great loss, I can't even imagine how his family is feeling. My prayers go out to Jeff and his family :cry:

[Jason Montano]

Very sad to hear about this. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Rest in Peace - Jeff Wear.

[Joey Ketcham]

My prayers are with Jeff’s family during this hard time. This is a tremendous loss for not only the family, but to his friends and fellow storm chasers. The storm chase community is much like being a firefighter or police officer; we’re part of a brother/sisterhood and one big family. When something like this happens to a fellow storm chaser, a brother to us, it has a tremendous affect on us all.

I’m saddened that I never had the chance to meet Jeff, I have read his posts and I believe I even exchanged emails with him in the past. I think what David and Tim are doing is awesome, it’s a great way to pay tribute to a fallen chaser and to keep his spirit and memories alive.

Jeff, brother… rest in peace. And for the rest of us, as we roam the plains in 2006 and finding ourselves face to face with mother natures most violent fury… Jeff with be right there with each and every one of us enjoying the beauty that mother nature has offered us.

[Tim Samaras]

Wow.

I'm deeply saddened and shaken over this. For some reason, I couldn't sleep past 1 AM last night, and decided to check my email. It is when Nick Grillo posted the tragic news on WX-CHASE, and immediately came over to the ST forum to read more about it. I haven't slept since then.



I've visited Jeff's website a couple of years ago, and I noted based on his writing that he was really passionate about the weather. I've only met him once or twice, as he was a regular attendee at the CO chasers convention, he was very quiet and independent! I enjoyed his posts, and certainly his humor, and mostly his passion for convection. I laughed when he showed "The attack of the birds" at the convention a few years back.


Storm chasers are a small group that share a passion that's sometimes difficult for others to understand. When one is driven by passion, the results are astounding. Jeff Wear certainly fits this guide as he wanted to make a life-long career studying the atmosphere, and...like the rest of us...wanted to be "out there". His white car and his "COPUNCH" license plate were always under the great storms.

My sincere condolences to Jeff's family and friends on this tragic loss. As one can tell by this incredible thread, he will be deeply missed!

Regards,
Tim Samaras

[David Schuttler]

I never got to meet Jeff but he is considered family , as we all are here.Sharing a common passion and devotion towards the magical mystery of Mother Nature.

I did get a kick out of personally getting to see the famous "COPUNCH" tag, as he passed by me east of Pawhuska this year.

My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

[Joe Guerra]

This one song has been going through my head all day, and, after changing the words a bit, I thought this would be a good tribute to him:

"In truths that he learned, or in times that he cried, in the storms that he chased, or the way that he died.

"Its time now, to sing out, though the story never ends, let's celebrate, remember the life of our friend! Remember his love!"

[Laura Duchesne]

I never got to meet Jeff in person, but I am saddened by this tragic news. It is a reminder that life is very precious and we should enjoy every minute of it till the very end. You never when your day will come. Being storm chasers, we take quite a few risks and are considered very lucky to be here today. Unforunately this kind of thing can happen even when you are just going out to get some milk.

Jeff you will be missed. Right now I have thunderstorms popping up all around... each one of those will be dedicated to you. Please forward my condolences to Jeff's family, from the Canadian chaser community.

Kindest and sincerest regards,
Laura

[Mikey Gribble]

I remember reading Jeff's posts and from what I have seen from other people's comments and from Jeff's website he was a great storm chaser. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.

[Scott Olson]

I am totally shocked by this news. While I didn't know Jeff personally I have seen his posts and his website and have enjoyed his forecasts, his sense of humor and his passion for severe weather. My utmost condolensces go to his family.

-Scott Olson

[Jim Bishop]

I am shocked and deeply saddened by this terrible news. I didn't know Jeff personally, but I'd seen his posts. My condolences go out to his family.

It's a tragedy like this that makes a chaser ponder over all those times he/she's driven over wet roads over the years. A couple others have already pointed out that probably every one of us has hydroplained at one time or another on the way to, during, or on the way home from a chase, and are greatful when we end up unharmed.

It is a tragedy that this happened to such a passionate storm chaser...

[Fabian Guerra]

Man, this is really sad news. My deepest thoughts go with his family and friends. I didn't actually know Jeff but anyone who has a passion for chasing storms certainly knows his name at the very least. The one thing I can honestly say (from reading his posts and visiting his site throughout the years) is that he always seemed to choose the high road on just about every issue and keep a positive, and often humorous, attitude. It's very sad that he passed on so early in life but he left behind only good things and there is no doubt that he will forever be remembered as a good person who brought happiness, love and friendship to many people.

His best chase season has only just begun...

Sincerely,
Fabian Guerra

[Dan Dawson]

My prayers go out to the family of Jeff Wear. I too, never met him personally, although I remember reading his posts on this forum, including his final one about going after Dennis. I'm touched by the heartfelt reaction of the community to this tragic accident. He sounds like a man who lived his dream, and died doing it, and I can think of no better way to live or die. Open fields and beautiful storms enough to chase forever, Jeff!

Dan

[Anthony Silver]

This is extremely horrible and sad news. My condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's family.

-Jeff Wear-Rest In Peace.

[Bill Hark]

I only met Jeff once at the Storm Chase Conference and I remember his infectious enthusiasm for storms. I've also enjoyed reading his posts and his website. This is a big shock and I am saddened by the loss to the chase community. My condolences to his family. Life is brief, precious and never should be taken for granted. I hope there are many beautiful storms for Jeff.

Bill Hark

[Bill Tabor]

Well,...this sucks! I never met Jeff, but there is something odd about chasing. Somehow when we go out and meet under the sky and the clouds, and look upon greater things than ourselves we becomes both mesmerized and excited about that which we behold. My experience is that those others in the field that we encounter (other chasers, spotters, locals) with similar passion who are also drawn upwards toward the sky often embrace those around them as friends. Oddly we all seem as long time friends under the sky. Even so, some of my current long time friends, I first met in this manner.

I guess what I am saying is that as chasers with a love and passion for chasing we are all friends just as we are on this forum. While I never met or knew Jeff, no doubt had we met we would have shared this love and understanding which while often never expressed or described runs deep. Certainly all good things in the universe are interconnected and intertwined, and with this loss we must all feel some part now missing.

Jeff, I bid you adieu. I hope you found the treasures in this life you searched for. Go in peace. May you find joy in the great beyond!

As for the rest of my friends...brothers and sisters of the chase. I wish you well and to prosper.

[Mike Cox]

Though I didn't get to know Jeff while he was with us here on this great planet, losing one of our own hurts just the same. My thoughts and prayers to Jeff's family. Farewell Jeff, may you continue to chase the big storm in the sky...

Mike, KØSVR
www.iachaser.com (http://www.iachaser.com)

[Brett Adair]

I am seriously saddened by this as well as the rest of you, but I am especially because I started PMing Jeff reguarding some things that were going on with the boards. He and I began talking over the messenger and seemed to have many things in common, so we were becoming pretty good friends and hoping to get together for a chase sometime.

Jeff was a great guy from what I know of and I am saddened that I was never able to meet him.

He was the very first member of the StormTrack Forums. Rest in Peace Jeff, I know you are in a better place on the other side of those glorious gates of Heaven. I bid you farewell. :cry:

[Robby Lock]

Very sad to hear this. My prayers are with his family.

[Bob Schafer]

Now that I've read every word of this thread, I remember Jeff's "The Birds" vid from Denver 2003. It was very funny.

I also never made the connection between him and those license plates, but, MAN!, it always seemed to me that he was EVERYWHERE!

Jeff Wear...the only one of us who will never again suffer from SDS.

Of course, my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time of sadness.

Oh, I also "stole" his pic and posted it in my "site" (linked below)

[Kurt Silvey]

To the parents and family of Jeff,

I’m sure there is nothing we can put into words that could possibly comfort you during this time of loss. As a parent myself, I can not comprehend any greater tragedy, than that which you have suffered. But perhaps you can find some peace in knowing that Jeff had touched so many people in a great way. In less than a day of learning of this tragedy, there are over one hundred messages, which have been read by over three thousand readers, posted to these pages. Both in life and memory, Jeff has reached out to a storm chasing community that spans across continents. Rest in peace.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you,

Kurt Silvey
Omaha, NE

[Sean Mullen]

I may have met Jeff briefly at one of the chaser conventions in Denver; I don't quite remenber, and doubt if he would have remembered me. My heart goes out to those that knew and loved him. I was reading through some of his posts, and was struck by one of Jeff's posts that talked about a favorite moment from 2004:
"Top of the list has to be on 6/12 the moment the second Mulvane tornado moved out of the shadows and into the sunlight."
And now you've done the same, Jeff. Fare you well. Peace to your family and friends.

Keep the faith
Sean

[Floss Ralston]

MY CONDOLENCES TO JEFF'S FAMILY. I DIDN'T KNOW JEFF EITHER, BUT I DO REMEMBER SEEING HIM AT THE CONVENTION IN DENVER N LAUGHING AT HIS VID HE SHOWED. IT SADDENS ME TO HEAR OF THIS TRAGEDY, BUT I MUST AGREE HE DID LEAVE THIS WORLD DOING WHAT HE LOVED DOING. REST IN PEACE JEFF N GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY. MY PRAYERS N THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU ALL.

[Mike Umscheid]

I checked my email at work and saw the post on WX-CHASE, that's how I first got the news. I immediately got that lump in my throat, the heavy heart feeling, that you can't explain. I didn't even know him. It is truly amazing how the internet has brought us all so close together as a community... and when one of our own has been taken away in such a way that Jeff was, it hits us all very hard. Jeff had an affect on me, as well as all of us who actively chase and share our passion and experiences on Stormtrack.

When I think of Jeff Wear I think of his sense of humor, alongside his passion for storms. His "birds" video was some of the funniest chase video I have ever seen. Just classic. My best to Jeff wherever he may be now... most certainly a place that brings him everlasting peace. He'll certainly be missed..

Mike U

[Jonathan Merage]

Like most of us on ST, I never had the pleasure of meeting Jeff. But this evening, I definitely felt the deepest sadness of having lost a distant friend from my home state--a man who through the thick of life (AND some amazing moments) more than held himself together with his wonderful sense of humor. A down-to-earth guy who always kept an eye on the "stormy" side of life--no matter what--he was the quintessential storm chaser.
My condolences go to the Wear Family, all our blessings and best wishes are with you!!
Jon Merage

[Marcus Opitz]

I am saddend to hear the loss of a fellow stormchaser....This is a terrible tragedy. Though I did not know him personally, I can recall reading many enjoyable posts.

[Robert Edmonds]

This is the worst nightmare to a storm chaser’s family and friends. Yet, I hope they can find peace he was doing something he enjoyed. Even though I did not know him too, I am sure his loss will be felt through the community. My deepest condolences...

[George Flickinger]

I will pray for the Wear family tonight....George Flickinger

[Sarah Berling]

Tragedies like this bring our mortality into stark relief and its a very terrifying feeling. It could have easily been any of us and that's what really scares me. Though I never met Jeff, his birds video and his humourous posts brought a smile to my face. He was a genuinely good man and a passionate chaser. I will keep Jeff and his family in my prayers.

God bless, Jeff.

[Angel Dimitrov]

I don't know in personal Jeff but it's terrible to hear for such incident:(

My prayers go out to Jeff's family.

Angel

[Edward Ballou]

I vaguely remember Jeff from this year's chaser convention in Denver. I've enjoyed going back and reading some of his posts and perusing his website. He seemed to be a genuine guy who loved what he did and had a lot of fun doing it. My prayers are with his family.

[Scott Taylor]

My prayers and thoughts are with Jeff's family and friends.

God Bless.

[Thomas Loades]

I, too, never met Jeff, yet this news still came as a shock — something you never really expect, or would want to. My condolences to his family and friends, from a land of upside-down tornadoes.

[Anthony Petito]

I was holding off on putting a reply here becuase I personally didn't know Jeff. However, after reading through all 9 pages of this thread and the outpour of support from the community, I feel comfortable enough to post in this thread.

I wish to offer my deepest sympothies and condolences to Jeff's family and friends. He will be in all of our prayers.

[Tony Laubach]

I met Jeff at a couple conferences and enjoyed my conversations with him. I never had the pleasure of meeting him in the field. This is a sad day for the chase community and my sincerest condolences go out to his friends and family...

[Patrick Ware]

Wow, I just saw this today. Another tragic loss of a young and talented life. I never met Jeff, but we did communicate through email.

Jeff, may you always have blue skies ahead and a tailwind at your back.
Farewell, my prayers are with your family.

[Craig Maire II]

I never met Jeff but he was a fellow chaser, may you rest in peace Jeff, my condolences to him and his family/friends. :(

[Carrie Halliday]

I am so saddened to hear of Jeff's passing. I only knew him via this forum but did enjoy his posts. My condolences to the Wear family.

[Perry Williams]

I express my most humble condolences to Jeff's family and friends....

May God bless each of you,
Perry

[Mike Parker]

What a horrible tragedy. I pray for serenity for his family and friends. The chasing family has truly lost a great member.

[Owen Shieh]

I have never met Jeff, or communicated directly with him, since this is my first year on this board. However, even then, his name has stuck in my mind, and I have enjoyed reading his posts and greatly appreciated all of his thoughts, photos, and discussions. I give my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this trying time, and Jeff, may you rest in peace.

[David Draun]

Well, this certainly is a shock. I only knew Jeff Wear from the text he typed, and that crazy upside down tornado avatar. I've seen his website, and he was a great chaser, he died doing what he loved best. May his heaven be infinite CAPE and shear, with just the right amount of cap, and mothership mesos that always generate tornadoes, dancing through open fields.

A salute to you, Jeff Wear!

Rest in Peace. I will dedicate the first thunderstorm I see in Iraq to you!

Dave

[J.B. Dixon]

Very sad news, indeed. I hope I'm not too late to pass along thoughts and condolences. It's a sobering feeling knowing that one of us in here is no longer with us, taken so swiftly, so tragically. Thanks for the picture and post, Mike Deason.

[guest]

I similarly express my condolences to friends and family directly affected by this tragic and great loss. When I saw Jeff's posts on Stormtrack, I made sure to read them, because they were interesting and often contained quite a unique sense of humor and perspective on chasing and life. Although I never formally met him, I knew if I did meet him, he'd be a great guy I'd like to know. My prayers are with Jeff's family and friends.

Warmest Regards,
Chris

[Chris Lott]

I myself did not know Jeff personally, but like other chasers I was interested in posts he made on ST because you could learn so much from him. My regards go out to Jeff's family, he will be missed.

[Geoff Boyle]

I offer my deepest condolences to the Wear family. This is indeed a real tragedy, and I pray that God would comfort them during this very difficult time.

[Richard Halter]

Having never met Jeff that I know of (though it was possible over the trips I made to the midwest to chase), I still feel horribly for his family, friends, and the obvious loss to the chaser community. Hopefully he won't have to give up what he loved the most, and blazes a trail for the rest of us whatever the future holds.




:(

[Mike Johnson]

This is indeed sad news. I am sure Jeff would have felt proud to know that so many chasers have responded to this thread. In some sense, Jeff was returning from something he loved to do.

Life is but a dream.

[Morgan Palmer]

Received an e-mail tonight from Jeff's uncle, though I inadvertently deleted it in my spam filter, and it is gone.

The bottom line is that the family is touched by the outpouring of grief and condolence from the ST community. It is, of course, an amazingly difficult time for all in the family, and our thoughts, words, prayers... and soon to be received gift... are all treasured by the family.

An aside... I, too, am touched by the amount of love shown by fellow chasers to a person many of us never met. While this board has hundreds of members, and most of us have busy lives, I am proud that I can say we are truly a family.

Thanks to everyone.
MP

[joel ewing]

I've done a copious amount of reading on the subject of life after death. While I wish not to open up that can of worms, I can say that the people throughout the ages and various civilizations who have "died" and been "brought back" to life....the large majority of them state that they indeed could "feel" and hear all the love directed at them when others prayed for them.
I firmly believe that Jeff is still "Jeff" in every sense of the word....and that he benefits greatly from this outpouring of love and prayer for him. And his surrounding family of loved ones benefit greatly as well.
Godspeed, Jeff!!

[mrobinett]

I didnt know him either, but I did a google search to find out about the In Memory Of Jeff Wear avatar I had seen on here and I found his website. I read it all and looked at his pics he had taken and its different to look into someones life and love they put onto a blog or site after their passing, I probably never would have found it otherwise.

Rest in Peace.

Mike Robinett
W4UAV

[Chuck Vlcek]

I just now read about this and would like to add my own condolences to Jeff's family. What come to mind from Scripture is "His works follow after him", or something similar. For storm chasers, Jeff's works -- his posts, photos, video, etc. -- will be his memorial.

The peril of hydroplaning has already been discussed, but fatigue could have also come into play, considering that he was coming home from a long chase. And sometimes stuff happens, like the stupid truck driver who pulled out in front of Evan Bookbinder while he was returning from the 2004 Denver chaser conference, causing him to roll over during evasive manuevers -- at least he survived. And that's the thing -- when you drive as much as you do under adverse conditions, sooner or later stuff happens. And chances are it won't be the softball hailstone, violent tornado, or even well-placed lightning bolt, but something as mundane as hydroplaning or falling asleep at the wheel, or the other driver doing something stupid. New (and old) chasers, take note.

[Patrick Kerrin]

I had never met Jeff but I am still saddened to hear this news.

My condolences to his family and friends.


Patrick

[SteveCarter]

Stunned. I've been off the site for about a week, and the first thing I see is this. I got an e-mail from him about a month ago, after I e-mailed him with some questions. What a great guy - really. Just stunned. I haven't read all of the posts on this thread, so this was probably already mentioned somewhere, but I REALLY hope his work is eventually saved. If his family does read all of these posts, let it be known that Jeff will be SO missed by his stormtrack family, and the next time I'm chasing, I will slow it down when it's raining. It could have been me, or a number of others. I feel so.....hard to explain.

[Lauren Ford]

Having not known him or ever posted here (just a reader) I felt compelled to say something. This is such a horrible tragedy to say the least. My thoughts and prayers are with the Wear family. May God rest your soul, Jeff.

Lauren

[Philip Flory]

I haven't read the Weather and chasing forum for a few days and was unaware of this or I would have responded sooner.

I echo the comments made by others that every decision you make could change everything. It is very important that you live your life to it's highest potential because you never know when it could end.

My best to his family and friends.

[Angela Brasher]

I'm so sorry to hear of Jeff's passing and wanted to include my condolences to his family and friends. May you have the strength to weather this storm.

[Bryce Stone]

My best to Jeff's family during this difficult time in their lives.

[David Drummond]

I received an email from Jeff's mother today. I copied a portion of it here that I thought you guys would like to see with her permission.

As you can imagine, we are devastated with our loss of Jeff, but the outpouring of support from his friends in the weather community has been more helpful than you can ever know.

I'm not sure if you've heard this yet, but we found Jeff's video camera in his demolished car, and it survived the crash undamaged. We were able to view the cassette inside when we arrived back in California and many of our questions were answered as to why he took this fateful trip.

His video reveals that he was taping Hurricane Dennis from a parking garage in Pensacola Florida begining at 10:38am on sunday July 10. In the tape we can see he is having the time of his life when the hurricane reaches landfall in the afternoon. He tapes it until the winds reach 85 mph, then goes to a safe place until the storm is over.

After sleeping for awhile in his car, he begins the journey back to Norman, stopping in Mendenhall Mississippi to fill up with gas, then sleeping for awhile longer before continuing on through Texas until the accident happened at 11:05am.

[Michael P. Morris]

I have never met Jeff, although I have seen him numerous times in the unmistakable COPUNCH machine. I always enjoyed the way he shrugged off a bust chase like it was nothing and joked about it (Year of the Turkey Tower anyone?). May you rest in peace Jeff.

[Gaetan Cormier]

Wow! I'm totally sad about this news, this is realy awfull.

All my sympathies with Jeff's family and friends. His spirit will now chase forever!

[Adam R Davis]

I guess like a lot of people here, I'm pretty stunned. Such things don't give you time to prepare anything you can feel is appropriate or to say or even feel is saying enough.
Being a relative newbie here, I can't say I ever got to know him. But I do know the pain of losing someone suddenly through tragic circumstances. If nothing else, I can offer my sincere sympathy. Just wish I could do more.

[T. W. Miller]

What a shock to read about such a tragedy. My sincerest sympathies and condolences to Jeff's family and friends. I did not know him personally except for a few brief moments during a chase and remember well how similar our philosphies were regarding enjoyment of our interest whether bust or feast. As many others stated, will miss his contributions to the chaser community in voice and character. His spirit will live on and be with all of us during each and every chase.

[Saul Trabal]

I know next to nothing about this person-but still, what a horrible way to go. :( My condolences to his friends and family. I drive a school bus for a living, and have driven under some dangerous conditions. I know the dangers all too well.

:(

[Aaron Moody]

My condolences and prayers out to Jeff's family and friends. I would've liked to have met him one day.

[Mikel Shively]

This is truely a terrible thing that happend. Me and my family wish sincere condolences to the family of Jeff and to the many, many close friends that he had here on ST.

[Pat Palmer]

Hail the Day,
Hail sons of Day.
Grant us a hard heart,
and victory over our enemies,
while we live.

Mighty Aesir,
Holy Vanir,
Grant us a warm heart,
and healing hands,
while we live.

Mighty Odin! A great warrior comes to your hall!
He has danced with Thor, your brother, and knows him well.

With these words I raise my drinkhorn, and toast the honor of our fallen warrior.

[Melanie Metz]

This is extremely sad news. My condolences to his friends and family. It's wonderful that he followed his passion in life and found joy.

My deepest symathy,
Melanie

[Simon Brewer]

The morning of July 11 my chase partner Shawn and I were still driving back from chasing hurricane Dennis after a very early morning nap in Mississippi. Shawn and I got excited to see the airmass t-storms develop in NE Texas as we crossed the LA/TX border on I-20, but my excitement turned to concentration and worry as my windshield had begun to resemble a waterfall. I've hydroplaned before, sometimes it's unavoidable unless the car is crawling or stopped, but in blinding rain one can cause multi-car pilups if they were to stop, so to go at a much slower yet reasonable speed is what I usually do in such a situation.

I have almost new tires on my car and I was driving in the 40-50 mph range, but so much water was on the roadway that my tires still lost traction briefly at times that morning, but lucky for us the storms were small and scattered. We emerged out of the storm and soon passed a horrible accident, which backed up traffic for what seemed a few miles. I feel terrible when I see accidents, because I've been in a few and know the pain and trouble carried with them.

Only now did I discover that it was Jeff's accident I had passed. My heart goes out to those who knew him and miss him. I did not know him, but I've read his posts and I'm sad to hear that such a lover of weather has departed.