Editor, Times-Union: Steve Carman was one of the nicest of all people I've ever met. What a shameful, hateful and sinful event that took his life and took him away from his two children. There is no excuse. I met Steve about 12 years ago and for him to install and remove my pier and boat lifts each year. Every time I talked with Steve he was always cheerful, friendly and sincere. He told me several times over the years that now that he had kids and that he had to change his life. He did so in a model way. Beginning his pier service and growing it due to his commitment to his customers and his employees was a testament to his sincerity and thoughtfulness as a person. He took the time back in September to walk me through his new boat storage facility. He was so proud of the integrity of the building and the future of its utilization. Another time he talked extensively of his whitewater rafting trips to Tennessee and of those hilarious stories. I considered him a good friend. I’ll miss seeing him cruising down Lake Tippecanoe delivering boat lifts with his hair blowing. What a sight to see Steve flying down the lake. He sure looked in his element and enjoyed every minute. I’m sure God has a lake for Steve and a river too. Each year his business grew not by paid advertising but by word-of-mouth advertising. Seems to me everyone knew Steve. Steve Carman was the Pied Piper of Kosciusko County! Bless his two little girls, his folks and friends. I’m sure Carman Pier will continue to grow and thrive in his name and in remembrance of him and provide the sincere service that Steve worked hard at providing everyday. Bob Ragland Leesburg, via e-mail
