Rest Easy, Hippie.

The tide recedes but leaves behind

Bright seashells on the sand.

The sun goes down, but gentle warmth

Still lingers on the land.

The music stops, yet echoes on

In sweet, soulful refrains.

For every joy that passes,

Something beautiful remains.

As I know most of you are aware, we lost a legend over the holiday weekend. Hippie left us while doing what he loved most, camping on Washburn Island with his beautiful fiancé, family and friends. He went the way I’m sure he wanted to, surrounded by the ocean and those he loved. You don’t get more Cape Cod than that.

I’ve been staring at a blank page for days trying to put into words what we’re all feeling while also being sure to make Hippie proud. That’s when it hit me; the last thing that bastard would want is some sort of memorial about how great he was and how much I’ll miss him. Then again, I’ve always prided myself on doing the exact opposite of what he told me to, so here goes.

Visitation will be held at Chapman Cole & Gleason in Falmouth on Sunday, July 10th from 3:00-7:00pm

A burial service will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery on Monday, July 11th at 11:00am, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life at the Coonamessett Inn

All are welcome.

 

The first time I met Hippie was at The Beach House restaurant after he had reached out, aiming to recruit me as a writer. He showed up an hour late, shit faced, with some man-child he introduced as Ham Sandwich. I had no idea what to think but the second we sat down and he started talking about the site and his vision, I knew I had to jump on board. And I’m thankful every day that I did.

Who else do you know that can turn a dream into a fully functioning website that thousands of people follow? Or think up a god damn music festival and fill it with local talent and music lovers? Who else organized parties, functions and gatherings that gave back to the community we grew up in? No one. Because Hippie was one of a kind.

I mean that man literally made his dreams come true while sitting on his couch, pantless, talking shit. I want to be more like Hippie.

If we all take even a fraction of his love for life, music and hometown loyalty, the world will be a better place.

My thoughts are with everyone who had the privilege to know and love Hippie, especially his family and amazing fiancé.

Rest easy and may the waves carry you home, Damien.

*If anyone has pictures of Hippie for the memorial, please send to [email protected]