Seattle Press on Line - Dad Mourns His Lost Fisherman Son

Dad Mourns His Lost Fisherman Son

Mark J. J. Matuszewski.

Richard Matuszewski.

Sep 20, 2000 -- "I come here a couple times a week, sometimes twice a day," says Richard Matuszewski, running his fingers over the letters cast into the bronze plaque at Fishermen's Terminal. The name of Mark J.J. Matuszewski is polished from repeated touching.

Names of over 300 fishermen who lost their lives pursuing salmon, cod, haddock and crabs throughout the Pacific and Bering Sea fishing grounds are listed on the memorial plaque at the Ballard homeport for Seattle's fishing fleet.

Next weekend, there will be a gala festival celebrating the traditions of Ballard's fisherfolk, who for over a century have sailed from Salmon Bay to the Pacific and Bering sea. Mark J. J. Matuszewski is one who didn't come back.

"He was only 20," says his father, Steven. "He was too young to know anything. It was his first real job."

Mark went to Ballard High and played football there. "I knew some people and helped him get a berth on a fish processor," explained Richard, who spent over 15 years as crew and owner of salmon boats himself.

Mark fell overboard during a storm on the Bering sea. They were transferring fish from a smaller boat to the processor. "We never understood exactly what happened. They never recovered his body. His grave is up there," his father said with resignation.

Richard looks around the quiet fishing pier. "There's nothing but cement here. But it's the memories. He was the most beautiful kid..."

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Pam Christman-McCarty	Jan 19, 2004	Salt Lake City, Ut.	Coach Operater
01.18.04 Mark was my Cousin. Tears still come after all this time. It's now been over 13 years. I remember his hugs and his laugh. If I try real hard, I can hear his laughter. What a beautiful young man.


Randy Christman-McCarty	May 22, 2004	Right here!	Aspring worlds greatest husban
Mark was and is a very special spirit. While growing up he had a spark about him. His energy and enthusiasm gained him the childhood nickname of Markle Sparkle. Having also worked as a commercial fisherman during my college years I know all too well the environment Mark and others like him faced. The balance between risk and reward could be precarious at times. A young man's sense of ignorate invincability can mask the very real danger. Mark is missed and not forgotten.


Melanie Bevans	Jul 23, 2005
Hi!! I loved Pam's comments. I need you to contact me. Thanks