Costa Mesa, California
October 10, 2023
Dear Family & Friends:
I hope none of you ever suffer water damage to your home. On August 20, 2023, our beloved condominium in Palm Desert, California suffered substantial damage from Tropical Storm Hillary. I learned about the damage while I was having dinner at Dock 44 Marina on Francis Case Lake in South Dakota. I rushed home to deal with this crisis. Since returning home, I have spent full time on this project. We have a long way to go to restore our condominium, but I have reached the point where I can finally return to the Mighty Mo to finish my journey.
Our first of 14 grandchildren (Bailey) is getting married in Palm Springs, California on October 21. We are super excited for Bailey and her fiancé, Jason. On October 22, I will fly from Palm Springs to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I plan to be back on the Missouri River at Dock 44 Marina on October 23. I estimate six weeks to reach the terminus of the Missouri River in St. Louis, Missouri where the Missouri River converges with the Mississippi River. The weather will be a lot colder this time of the year, but I am accustomed to cold weather and have an abundance of cold weather gear which will keep me warm.
Bill
Our formerly beautiful living room after the storm
“Keep on keeping Bill”…so proud of you and you start your summit paddle for those last wonderful miles to the Mississippi!
“Paddle on!”
John, Sioux and Ryan
Great to hear you are ready to go. I’m interested in hearing about the cold weather. Hope you don’t get snow. I myself am sitting at gate 9 in Chicago flying to Dublin in a few hours. Not as adventurous but then I’m old. Buen Camino. John
So sorry about the damage to your condominum from the storm and the headaches created.
Wishing you a safe journey on the next leg of your adventure.
I am so sorry for all the damage to your homeband the hassle to get the needed repairs. I find it crazy that you are still going to complete the Missouri River journey yet this Fall. You are defa brave and adventurous guy. Good luck to you.!
Safe travels Bill.
Be careful and stay warm. The weather will be more than a little chilly by the time you finish.
Bill, without concentration and focus there is no tranquility. Your concentration was broken when the hurricane severely damaged the Palm Desert condominium but, after a 6 week break attending to the damage, you will now be able to refocus your attention on paddling the Missouri River.
Blessings as you renew your efforts,
Rick
So sorry for your setback, Bill. However, I am not surprised at your determination to accomplish your goal. Safe travels. I’m so excited to be able to follow your adventures once again!
Bill –amazing that you are going to continue your river journey, but not unexpected from the man we know! My wife, Carolyn, went to her Lord in August and she is greatly missed, but she was a great fan of you and we enjoyed learning of your adventures together.
Enjoy your grand daughters wedding. Be safe as you complete this journey on the Missouri River.
Back on track of your goal. Looks like everything will turn out alright.
Wow! Nothing can stop Bill Burke!
You have proven this time after time.
What a trooper.
You have a track record of completing each and every thing you attempt.
I’m very proud to know you.
Best of luck in completing your journey.
Ed Culbertson
Glad you’re able to continue your journey!!
Excited for your family and you getting back to your amazing trip!
Have a great time on the Missouri River Bill! Lisa’s friends all appreciate your hard work on the condo. It’s such a special place to us. Have fun on your adventure, and stay safe! 🙂
Good to receive your update, Bill. Thanks.
Having endured rain damage myself, I well know the headaches you suffered getting your place fixed up!
Was atop White Mountain Peak @ 14,252ft, California’s 3rd highest, a few weeks ago and thought of you (have also been atop Baldy 48 times YTD). Also, thought of you on Catalina Island yesterday, as I glided down the 5 course Zipline, as you did in Kathmandu (was scuba diving there).
Congratulations on your grand daughter’s marriage. It’ll be good practice for 13 more!
Best wishes as you re-embark on your Missouri River adventure. Will be on the outlook for your updates.
Fond hugs,
k;-)