|
|
Muck-diving pioneer dies
|
Larry Smith, the iconic American dive guide who has helped thousands of divers get the most from their holidays in Indonesia, has died after a short illness.
|
|
Smith, who was in his 50s, died in Sorong, Raja Empat. He had spent two days in hospital in Kakfak with suspected pneumonia before being released, only to feel unwell again en route to Bali. He died of complications associated with pneumonia after being admitted to Sorong's Pertamina hospital.
Smith was an avid wildlife enthusiast, whose knowledge and spirit for discovery rubbed off on those who dived with him - having first sat in on his lively dive briefings. According to Diver magazine writer John Bantin, who dived with him, the beefy, bull-necked Smith talked 'like a cowboy: 'Time to saddle up and mosey down to the dinghies''.
Ironically, given his substantial presence, Smith particularly loved tiny creatures such as pygmy seahorses and skeleton shrimps. He is credited with introducing the activity of muck-diving, based at Kungkungen Bay Resort in Indonesia's Lembeh Strait. Thanks to Smith, hordes of divers now know what a 'critter' is, after rummaging with the father of all muckers.
Smith's diving companions ranged from ordinary holidaymakers to such notables as film-makers Ron and Valerie Taylor, and leading global tropical marine ichthyologist Dr Gerry Allen.
All those fortunate enough to have experienced Smith's warmth, enthusiasm and expertise will miss him. He leaves a wife, son, daughter - and very many friends. |
Start a Forum discussion on this topic
|
Archive | 
