Don’t Give Up the Ship: Barry Schuyler, A Legacy of Generosity

Those who give endlessly know no end. Barry and I at San Miguel Island, 2002.

With great sadness, I bring news of the passing of my dear friend, hero, and role model, Dr. Arent H “Barry” Schuyler. The Voyage of Swell was as much his dream as mine when our fated paths crossed in July of 2003. He proposed the idea to collaborate on a sailing adventure, and where our hands came together, magic was made. His eighty years of knowledge and experience, wisdom and creativity, imagination and generosity, combined with my 23-year old energy, determination, and wanderlust made us a powerful duo. In the two and a half years we spent preparing Swell and myself for the voyage, Barry and I developed a deep appreciation for each other–a friendship founded on shared humor, values, and a love for the Earth…especially the sea…

Barry’s recent passing came all too suddenly. I would have liked to walk arm and arm with him once more down the docks of the Santa Barbara harbor. I would have liked to discuss worldly affairs and the weather again over a bowl of chocolate ice cream or on an afternoon sail. I would have liked to look in his eyes once more and thank him–for taking a chance on me, for turning my dream into reality, and for the insight and joy that his friendship gave and will always give me.

My sadness is mixed with love and respect and appreciation. I am indescribably honored and blessed to have known a man of his greatness—a man who lived his virtues, dedicated his lifestyle and career to the environment, and gave so much time and love to others. A life as rich and full as his cannot only be mourned; it must be celebrated and emulated. A person who gives endlessly knows no end. Barry’s spirit will forever be carried on in the love and generosity he shared with the world. He will most tangibly live on in my heart forever, stopping by whenever he feels, to spend a moment aboard Swell, gliding over the endless blue…

Each time I said goodbye, he would repeat Emily Dickinson’s famous words, which seem so fitting now: “Parting is all we know of heaven, And all we need of hell.”

“Good Luck, kid.” He’d say…”Don’t give up the ship.”

Don’t worry, Barry, I won’t give up…not on Swell nor the bigger ‘ship’ we’re all sailing in together…

Despite his humble request, a memorial service for Dr. Arent H “Barry” Schuyler, will be held June 4th at UCSB from 1-4pm followed by a gathering at the Schuyler residence. Contact me for further details.

Due to the rush to get Swell safely tucked away for my departure to California…I’m behind on stories…more to come asap.