Adam Peter Podufal, 25

Adam Peter Podufal, 25, also known as "AP" and Pod, drowned Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008, while swimming in his favorite cutthroat fishing spot known as Devil's Elbow, which is located on the North Fork of the Flathead River in Hungry Horse. Adam worked for the U.S. Forest Service based at the Hungry Horse Ranger Station.

According to Ryan O'Shaughnessy, his friend and co-worker who was with him at the time, Adam's last words were spoken while treading the rapids in the crystal clear glacier waters. Adam said, "You know Ryan, I really love it out here!" "It was at that time that the good Lord decided to bring Adam home; home where God the Father, Papa Peter, Nana, Papa, Grampa Roy and Uncle Rick are welcoming him with loving arms."

Adam had fished for steelhead in Elk Creek in Girard, Pa., since he could walk. There were many days that he would leave at 6 a.m. and return just before dark. It was a joy to watch him work his magic with the fly rod or spin cast. And he sure could catch the fish!

Adam also played baseball, basketball and football at Girard High School, graduating in 2001. However, not only was he a natural at sports, he was also very smart. He loved to play chess and became very good at the game.

Adam also attended Allegheny College and Edinboro University. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and in 2006, his dream came true when he was able to attend Super Bowl XL in Detroit and watch the Steelers win.

The best attribute of Adam was his infectious personality. He loved people and they, in turn, loved him back.

Adam's many friends and family will miss him dearly. He was only with us a short time but memories of him will last forever! "We love you Adam!"

Adam was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Peter Podufal; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Theodora Brown; and his stepgrandfather, Roy Barns.

He is survived by his parents, Joseph A. and Debra Jean Brown Podufal, of Girard; a sister, Devon R. Podufal, also of Girard; his maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Podufal Barns, of Erie, Pa.; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Friends may call from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Burton Funeral Home, 525 Main Street East, Girard, PA 16417. Friends are also invited to attend services at 6:30 p.m. Thursday evening in Burton's All Faiths Chapel, with the Rev. Derek Sanford of Grace Baptist Church, Erie, officiating.

Memorials may be made to 3 CU, c/o Burton Funeral Home. You may send flowers and condolences at www.burtonfuneralhome.com.