Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/32232
54 • JUNE 2011 • WORLD FENCE NEWS Marc Hudson was known as the “barefoot fence man” continued from page 26 independent contractor. It turned out to be a perfect fit. “Marc delighted in meeting with new people. His wide ranging interests allowed him to connect with most. His large knowledge of our local flora and fauna as well as local history made him a resource worth knowing. He was especially taken with turtles, though all animals seemed to sense the tender heart he had for them,” said Coté. “Marc was honest and hardwork- ing, and built an enduring reputation among our local business community. Independent and curious, he also built an enduring reputation as a kind and CONTRACTORS: PRIVACY PLUS SAVE A TRUCKLOAD OF MONEY BY SWITCHING SUPPLIERS AND BUY DIRECT. CHAIN LINK BARBED WIRE MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS PH# 800-437-3761 FAX# 559-237-9704 TFC www.torresfence.com ; sales@torresfence.com “where price is the name of the game.” PVC WIRE Send For Free Brochure Also Available For Round Frames And Posts INTERNATIONAL GATE DEVICES, INC. IGD slidegate.net 1-800-557-4283 (GATE) Fax 610-534-9682 sincere hippie,” she said. Here are some other comments about this unique individual that help illustrate his colorful life and deserve to be included here: “It is insufficient to call Marc Hudson, founder of Bay Area Fence Factory, a customer. Marc was a won- derful friend to everyone with whom he had a business or personal relation- ship. He could make a difficult situa- tion become an easy one. He would inject laughter into any conversation. He was taken from us too soon and we will sorely miss him. His legacy to our industry and his friendship are deeply appreciated.” – Marc’s friends at Lumber & Fencing Products, Inc., Gibsonton, Florida “I had the privilege and honor to have been associated with Marc over the last 15 years. We both loved to fish and had several memorable trips to- gether. I caught my biggest snook on E/Z SLIDE™ HEAVY DUTY NYLON CANTILEVER ROLLER SQUARE Frame: 2x2 SQUARE Posts: 4” x 6” one such trip, meas- uring 36 inches. On another trip, Mer- chants Metals spon- sored a fishing tournament and Marc and I decided to fish together. I placed second in big Celebrating Our 29th Anniversary Quality Products for the Fence, Deck and Railing Industry™ Sold by the piece - full box quantities not required. Balusters / Spindles Porch & Newel Posts Caps / Post Skirts Railing Brackets Post Mount Towers Gate Hardware Faux Rock Pillars Post Wraps bass, Marc placed second in big cat- fish and also placed first in alligators. He had me lure a three foot long alli- gator close enough to the boat that he could grab it. At first I didn’t know if he had the gator or the gator had him. “After getting tail whipped a few times he got the small gator under con- trol and we had a little fun, took a few pictures and set him free; it was a day I’ll never forget. His love for Mother Nature and all of her critters was re- markable. “I can’t remember a time in all those years that Marc got upset or raised his voice at me. I’m sure as a supplier I didn’t always deliver mate- rial on time, or I billed a job wrong or whatever, he always remained calm. He was certainly one of the kindest, gentlest, sweetest souls I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. If Marc consid- ered you his friend, your needs and happiness were placed ahead of his. He couldn’t give you his shoes be- cause he never wore any, but he would literally give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. The fencing industry has lost a true Florida pioneer in Pinel- las County.” – Billy Howell, Merchants Metals, Tampa, Florida “The industry truly lost a unique Tri Custom Manufacturing www.tricm.com Phone 435-563-0261 Toll Free 1-866-833-9589 fencer. Back in 1979 when we first met, Marc came into our facility to purchase some fence pickets. Out of the truck steps this tall, slender man with a no shoes, long hair, tie dyed shirt and the biggest smile you have ever seen. We noticed the lack of shoes continued on page 56 Even after he was dia , Mar minal cancer what he lo f e o at w nce , of cour rk, small alligator that he caught on a memorab ved most: sell and install y Ho c contin ell. After the photo session the little f k as usual. l lo se! Here he is sho Belo gnosed with ter w , w was quic l y e fishing trip with Bill released. Mar n har c ued to do w - holds a w-l- d e