Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Harold Ensley Obituary
The Kansas City Star
Harold Ensley, who brought the outdoors to life for millions of television viewers through his "Sportsman's Friend" television show, died Wednesday afternoon at his home after a long battle with heart problems. He was 92.
His passing marked the end of a colorful era in Kansas City. The Overland Park man became a household name here, serving as one of fishing’s most visible ambassadors.
His popular TV show was one of the first nationally to feature fishing, and it lasted 48 years — a testament to its popularity. Even after it went off the air following the 2001 season, Ensley wasn't forgotten.
People would still line up to greet him and exchange fish stories with him at the Kansas City Sportshow, proof of his long-lasting appeal.
"Harold was like 'sterling' stamped on silver," said Dave Perkins, longtime director of the Sportshow. "He was a legend.
"I’ll tell you this. He will be missed. He was one of a kind.
"There won’t be another one like him."
A memorial service, which is open to the public, will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Overland Park Church of Christ, 13400 W. 119th Street.
Memories and Condolences
for Harold Ensley
214 Entries
Michael burns
November 8, 2024
When I was a kid my dad and I watched him and I loved that show. He was a great man, never to be forgotten.
I was fortunate enough to go to some of the places that he fished. I appreciated that man we're taking.
The time to show us how to enjoy the outdoors. I Still talk to my friend about him I was fortunate to meet Harold.
At restaurant in Wichita. I've seen to have said no of that with the Sun. I couldn't believe it. I went over introduce myself very nice man.
We had a nice conversation. He signed a napkin for me. He was a true outdoorsman.
He's the one that gave me my love for the outdoors.
Thank you so much harold Michael burns
Clayton J
May 12, 2022
After watching Mr. Ensley's Sportsman's friend my friend Mike and I would take our for Onion Creek in south east Kansas and see what we could do. Learned a lot from Mr Ensley. A fine Christian man.
Rick
September 25, 2021
I remember his show on TV. Use to see his car pass by my grandparents house on Blue Ridge Blvd. in Raytown, Mo. I think he lived in Raytown.
Vaea Smith
October 1, 2020
Harold and the family would treat you with warmth and generosity.
Harold Coates
September 20, 2020
I was a young boy growing up and Harold brought my dreams to life. He was the dad I never had . God bless him.
Rebecca Rowland
December 7, 2019
In my home back in the 60s and 70s Harold Ensley was a household word. We watched him about every week. Gave out such a homey presence. I had a wonderful young teacher at Cherokee Elementary in Overland Park, Kansas named Miss Gaddert who halfway through my 2nd grade year married Harold Ensleys son Dusty and she became Mrs. Ensley! We all loved her and felt like we were famous too now! She was so beautiful that we figured Dusty must be like a prince. We also loved the song from his show. We were so saddened when he past. But, oh boy! Did he leave a legacy!
Becky Richardson (now Rowland)
Bob Wolff
October 30, 2018
i grew up watching My"Friend"every Saturday in the late'60s/early'70s when i wasn't playing Y football games - his show was SO cozy and endearing, like he was welcoming you along. i ALMOST met him, too! 2001, heading out of our Versailles Missouri Wal-Mart after opening, a lil ol' fella asked me where the fishing rods were and i directed him. then i DID go out front and saw a small stationwagon with his show decal on the side, went back in to wait for him at our checkout. i met his son Dusty when he came in to wait for him too, meeting dad halfway to his home to follow him along the Ozark roads...so i left them alone. An HONOR
John Shields
January 29, 2014
Iwas watching a cable show and memories came back of gone fishing when I was a kid in Kansas what has happened to people
Philip O'Day
July 12, 2013
Vita Mutatur, Non Tollitur. Life is changed not taken away
kevin bock
April 18, 2013
I still think about Harold and his fishing films.
Eric Tew
July 29, 2012
54 and I still sing the Theme song to myself.
Watched the show, grew up in Great Bend and Pratt Kansas. Yes I still remeber the Ford and how well it ran, passing those others with thier hoods up.
Gary Tice
May 29, 2012
I met Harold Ensley as a child at the Sears store in Downtown Topeka, KS. I watched hundreds of his TV show. I moved away from Overland Park two decades ago and just found Harold's obit on the web. What a kind softspoken man! I have the most pleasant memories of Harold Ensley.
Dan A
April 23, 2012
Thank You Mr Ensley. Every time I fillet a crappie, I say thanks to Mr Ensley, as he taught me the proper way to fillet a crappie on Pomona lake in 1973. I was 16 years old at the time and have never forgotten the things he told me.
David Trotter
April 23, 2012
I miss you Grampa. Fishing with you in Great Bear and spending Christmas Eve with you watching White Christmas are some of the best memories I have. I think about you everytime i drive your red station wagon that still has gone fishin on the back. i wish we had more time here but cant wait to see you again in heaven. love you and miss you so much gramps.
TJ Lundblad
April 3, 2012
My dad watched Harold Ensley EVERY week - apparently I did too. As I recall his show always ended with him saying something like, 'If they're looking for me, tell them he was headed out an that red Ford Country Squire.'
January 10, 2012
Mr. Ensley and his theme song brings back great memories of watching his show with my grandma at her house on her farm. :)
Glen Spence
November 7, 2011
I remember watching Mr. Ensley's show as a boy growing up in Kansas City. He was very gracious to me, even though I would tell him every year at the Kansas City Boat, Sports and Travel show he should be driving a Chevy station wagon instead of a Ford!
Joseph Smith
June 21, 2011
As a kid sitting in my grandparents living room watching Harold nothing compares as a memory.
Lee Smart
May 11, 2011
I remember Mr. Ensley back in the 60's. I was just a boy, he would come down to the Smith Bend area of the Osage River and fish with my Uncle Neil (Smart). My Uncle was even on one of his shows. I remember he, Mr. Ensley and my Uncle telling stories and belly laughing. I was saddened to find that Mr. Ensley passed on, but realize he had a full and happy life from what I could tell when I met him. To his family, my condolences. Gone fishin', instead of just a wishin'----Lee Smart
April 20, 2011
Rev Tim Banks
Ron Ringel
March 25, 2011
Gone but not forgotten!
January 22, 2011
Trivia question: When did the song play during the show? At the end onlY?
Brad Stueber
November 20, 2010
I had a dream yesterday morning before waking up (Nov 19, 2010). I grew up in the Raytown Schools with Harold's daughter, Sandra. Have not seen her since graduation, 1971. I told her in this dream that I had written in her dad's guestbook (which I had) and remembered growing up watching his show. Then I sang "Gone fishing, instead of just a wishin'", the song for his TV show. I woke up and it went through my head in the shower, shaving, and half the morning at work yesterday. I wondered who sang the song for the show all those years ago. I remembered seeing Mr. Ensley dropping Sandra off at Southwood School in second grade in the big red Ford station wagon with the Show name and station written all over it and being in awe that I had seen a real television star, my first ever in life. Hope to see Sandra at our 40th reunion next July, 2011 to say hello, and if the mood is right...I may even sing "Gone fishing, instead of just a wishing" for her.
George Constance
November 5, 2010
After signing Harold to our first sportshow with him , we couldn't get enough of Harold. He mixed in the crowd , gave young aspiring fishermen a differnt look at his knowledge of the art of fishing held memorable seminars and never turned anyone down if they had questions during his seminars. A true sportsman and credit to the world of sportfishing. Always a gentleman and true to his trade, yes, he will be missed. George Constance, Superior, Wi.
Bruce Wasia
June 28, 2010
I sort of lost track of Mr. Ensley. I watched him on his shows when I was a kid and that started back in the middle '60s. I did watch him till the show was no longer on the air. I met him at WalMart in McCook, NE. when he was promoting rods and reels. My wife and I even got a picture with him. Never seen the picture because it was taken by the local news paper. I told Mr. Ensley that I was always wanting to get a rod and reel for pan fishing and if I wanted to go for a big one once in a while. He said, "Let's get you set up." He got me an open-faced spinning reel and a light action rod. It was an Abu-Garcia rod and reel. I still have them today and just caught some good fish yesterday. A real nice wiper to brag a little bit. He gave me a few basic pointers on how to use a few baits and also said that you have to feel what the fish want. It might take you some time to figure it out, but when you do, you've got it. That was the best advice I ever have been told on fishing. Caught many of fish since then. It has been several years and I am late at sending condolences for Mr. Ensley. May he rest in peace and catch that big one in that favorite fishing hole in the sky. I can see him with the "Gone fishing" sign in the window and he leaving in his green Ford Country Sedan. Thank you, Mr. Harold Ensley.
Chuck Easter
June 13, 2010
I am several years late in sending my condolences for Mr Ensley, but I remember him not from his "Sportsman Friend" show, but as one of my baseball coaches from my little league days, growing up in Independence, Mo in the 50's. He would go to our week long camp and help out with the coaching. I played for the Independence Shopper team and he was a sportscaster, at the time, at I believe
KIMO, which was located upstairs from the Shopper Newspaper printing plant. He also broadcast some of our little league ballgames during the summer. My dad always remember one call he made during one game "He hit a high grounder", which my dad always remembered. RIP coach...Catch a "big one" up there...
Cindy B
April 27, 2010
So sorry to hear about Mr. Ensley. I used to watch him on Saturday afternoons in Kansas City when I was small.
Bret Farrah
March 27, 2010
As a young boy growing up outside of Wichita, I would watch Harold's show religiously. I can still hear him describing a beautiful place I could never hope to visit called Table Rock Lake. It seemed that all the largemouth bass in the world resided there or in Lake Taneycomo and Harold knew exactly where to find them.
What a magical memory and impression he left with me forty years ago.
toni mitch
October 8, 2009
i have never met him he sounds nice
Jerry Wilbeck
September 19, 2009
Harold was an icon. I spent some time with him in the 1980's going on a boondoggle from KC to Wichita. He later directed me and my Father and brothers to the best Tarpon hole in the world located in Costa Rica. Only a few guys I have met could shine his shoes. Not only a "fisherman" but a man of God who influenced so many in a positive manner. Good luck Dusty and your family, and please remember that your Father may be gone from the good Earth, but he is absolutely having a great time "fishing" in Heaven.
Love to all of you,
Jerry Wilbeck and Family
Kelly Lee James
September 3, 2009
I always loved to watch Harold and the different guests and places they would go each week. It was a simple time and in an hour that was more certain. His faith in God always helped me as well. He is missed by all who knew and watched him over the years.
Bill Jennings
August 15, 2009
I met Harold in Alaska in 1962 while checking his fishing license. We were from the same home town and I went to school with his boys. Later ran into him at sports shows and demos. He always remembered me and my future wife. He was a true friend and I will miss him.
Jim Taylor
July 25, 2009
Fond memories"Gone Fishin Instead Of Just A Wishin" Harold Ensley; Gone but never forgotten.
jeff land
July 10, 2009
I don't know why I thought of Harold today but it doesn't matter. I first met him while pumping gas at Mac's 66 in Overland Park (1966). I never forgot him and that special man never forgot me.
jeff land
July 10, 2009
I don't know why I thought of Harold today but it doesn't matter. I met him in the mid '60s at Mac's 66 in Overland Park and I miss the man.
June 26, 2009
His name popped up in my mind so I ran a search. And here I am.
I wasn't a "sportsman," but frequently watched his show because he was such an appealing fellow. I'm sorry he's gone.
With sympathy,
Harold V. Cordry
Harold Cordry
June 26, 2009
His name popped up in my mind so I ran a search. And here I am.
I wasn't a "sportsman," but frequently watched his show because he was such an appealing fellow. I'm sorry he's gone.
With sympathy,
Harold V. Cordry
Martin Kim Ashley Hamann
June 23, 2009
I first met Harold at the Douglas County Fish & Game/Sports Show at Westman Arena in Superior WI. In March of 1985 I grew up watching his show on a station out of Duluth Mn. That led to hosting him at our farm in Northern Wi. for an early October goose hunt. We had a great week hunting and sharing stories, and our faith in Christ. Harold would call from time to time just to say hello, or to encourage us to get out and vote for the "right" guy for President. I was amazed that over the years Id call and just say my first name, and right off he'd know who I was... One day he called to ask our family to come fishing at Grand Lake, Oklahoma. We stayed at Harolds house that night, then off to Grand..and we got to drive him down in our car, and I bet we didnt miss a "good" fryed chicken place the whole trip!!.Once there ,we met Lee and Nora Jeffres . We had a great time even if the fishing wasnt the best. Harold , we miss you, till we meet again..
Steve Rice
June 15, 2009
As a kid (14)growing up in Raytown,Mo. in the early 1970's, I remember Harold used to walk past my house on 83'd street every night just to get some excerise. He lived a couple of blocks up the hill but would always stop and chat with me because he knew I loved fishing. I always treasured these moments and sometimes look out of my sisters bedroom window to see if he was coming! Oh the good old days!
Rueben Alden
May 20, 2009
miss his show and its honesty
Tim Bruns
April 26, 2009
I met Harold when I was in 3rd grade at the the Dighton Elementary School in Kansas for an assembly. My knowledge is that Harold lived in Healy, Ks...a short distance from Dighton. His t.v. show was sponsored by Ford...I do remember that. Tim
weldon patterson
March 16, 2009
I meet Harold at a Wal-mart in Gainesville Tx in 86 , He was a very Kind Man . We talked for over an Hour, then He ask me to walk out side and Harold gave me Two Fishing Rods and i steal have Both of them . God bless ........Weldon p
Sharon Lamoreaux Moravits
February 24, 2009
Many years ago. my father, Loren Lamoreaux, wrote a column for the Press Dispatch newspaper in North Kansas City, MO., entitled "Gone Fishing". If I remember correctly, Mrs. Ensley and my mother shared a hospital room in May 1953 when my brother was born. Dad passed away peacefully last night. He would have been 90 in 3 weeks. I'm sure he and Harold are already "drownin' some worms."
Roger Brenizer
February 20, 2009
I first began watching "The Sportmsn's Friend" when it made it's first broadcast in about 1953 or 1954. I can remember our entire family, my dad, mother, sister and myself, glued to the television while watching Harold introduce local fisherman and their catches, many were fish caught from local farm ponds in the Kansas City, Missouri, area.
My most vivid remembrance of Harold was in the mid 1950's, when our family went on vacation to the Lake of the Ozarks, Gravois Mills, Missouri.
One morning my father and I were about to go bass fishing. My dad had gone down to the boat dock to load the boat and get it ready for the morning expedition. I looked down the hill, toward the boat dock, and saw my dad running up the hill as fast as he could go. He yelled; "Roger...come right now. Harold Ensley is going to take us fishing with him today!"
We didn't know Harold, but my dad had introduced himself to him and told him that we were about to go fishing. It was then that Harold invited us both to join him.
Harold was in the Ozarks to film a show for his television series "The Sportsman Friend." He was just pre-fishing the area that particular morning so he wasn't filming our fishing.
I remember his kindness and willingness to share tips and offer me, a 13 or 14 year old kid, his help and knowledge.
I know that Harold knew the Lord as his personal savior and is in heaven with Him today. He probably still puts up the sign every day that ended every show; "Gone fishin', instead of just a wishin'."
Ford sponsered his show, and I can still hear him saying at the close of his show; "I hope you drive a Ford too."
You may be gone from this earth, but you are never forgotten my friend.
Glenn Holland
February 15, 2009
I grew up on Harold's Saturday night fishing show. Many years ago, he was the keynote speaker at an Eagle Scout recognition dinner I attended. I still remember the stories he told.
Rick East
January 6, 2009
I began watching "The Sportsman"s Friend" TV show as a 12 year old boy. I was so excited to learn that Harold was going to be in Springfield, MO., my home town, at a sports show. My sister and I rode the bus to the Shrine Mosque, the location for the show, just to see him.
I only met him one time but he made an impression on me that I will never forget. I was standing back in the crowd that had surrounded Harold, his red Ford County Sedan, and the rest of his display. When he saw my sister and me just standing there, whith a look of aw on our faces, he stepped through the crowd of adults, came over to us and introduced himself. There was no introduction necessary but I am certain that he didn't realize that.
He spent several minuets with us and told us the stories behind several of the fish in he had on display.
If he could talk to us today, I am certain that he would say "don't be sad for me, I have just "gone fishing there is a sign upon my door"
tim hughes
December 7, 2008
I grew up watching him on tv, I now live in Wisconsin and for some reason I did a search on him and learned that he had died.
Larry Miller
November 9, 2008
Harold made sportsman out of many a kid who grew up watching his program. I'll never forget "gone fishing instead of just wishin". We made special trips to outdoor show just to meet him and see his "Red Ford Country Sedan". I miss him and the times they represent. Rest in Peace Harold, you'll always be remembered.
John McJunkin
October 22, 2008
I learned everything I know about fishin' from Harold and my Dad. I truly miss hearing that song every week. It just felt friendly.
CJ Meyers
October 21, 2008
I sure remember that show when I was a kid. Even a a little girl I thought that was pretty fun stuff! RIP Harold.
Matthew cullen
October 16, 2008
I remember as a kid coming home from church and rushing in to turn on the tv to watch Gone fishin. Mr. Ensley was a Great Role Model and a fine gentleman. I know without a doubt that he is fishing in a crystal clear lake in Heaven. The memories that he gave us will live on forever and continue to be a Great Inspiration to us all. God Bless you my Friend.
Tom Bachman
August 2, 2008
I forgot all about Harold for many years, until today. My daughter and her husband are headed out to go fishing. I broke into his "parting song"
Gone fishin....instead of just a wishin"
They had never heard of Harold, so I quickly did a search and found this site. Memories from my childhood came rushing back. To quote another famous person "Thanks for the memories".
angie taylor
June 28, 2008
Hey Harold
I knew you as a child into my teens, my mother and you were great friends as well as my extended family. My uncle was Bill Harper, he has joined you in the last few months ago. I was lucky to have known you. At the KC boat shows you would invite my sister and I to hand out your autograghed pictures for you and listen to your fans love for you and their stories. I remember you coming over to our home for my mothers fried chicken, I attended some of your live brodcasts. How cool was that. You also offerd to speak at my Jr. high school to the students but of course I was to cool to agree to that. You came out to see my horse that I was so proud of and I remeber, people oohing and aughing that you where there, but you made me feel special because you came to see me. You are a great part of my memories and my chidhood, I thankyou for that. You where are a special man.
Christopher Wood
June 5, 2008
You, sir, and your TV show was one of the deapest memories I have from my child hood. To this day, I still remember your theme song and how you sang it. My Father, Brothers and I would gather around the TV every chance we could and marvel at your show. You showed us how much fun fishing could be. I have missed your show and will miss you. You were Kansas City's friend and I feel you are still my friend here.
Doug Elias
June 1, 2008
Growing-up in Kansas, I remember my dad, brother, and I watching "Gone Fishin" with Harold Insley every chance we could. Very fond memories indeed. I wish I could have seen the water and scenery he had.
James Carter
May 25, 2008
I RARELY MISSED WATCHING HIS SHOW, I learned alot about the outdoors through his efforts. As I too grow older, with many walks down memory lane, I will think of him fondly.
dennis whittaker
May 10, 2008
a true discription of a true fisherman
Rick Troutman
April 10, 2008
As a kid growing up in the sixties in St. Joseph, Missouri I was an avid fan of the Harold Ensley Show. His show kept my thoughts on fishing during the coldest months of the year. From the years of watching the show I'm sure Mr. Ensley was a true gentleman and he really helped put the idea of a successful fishing show on the map. I never got to meet him but his demeanor and his fishing acumen is indelibly etched into my memory.
Kurt Moomau
March 6, 2008
My memories of Mr Ensley are numerous as I made a point of watching his show at every opportunity. His influence has surely prompted my continued advocacy for the outdoors and my involvement with youth in fishing. My fondest memory was when he came to our Boy Scout camp at Camp Kanza in Kansas and conducted a seminar to demonstrate casting. At one point he had pitched a lure under a tree to show how to cast in that situation and was retieving the lure so fast that it was just skipping across the top of the water. I'll be danged if he didn't hook up on a bass! I remember thinking "This guy is some kind of fisherman"! That stunt put him right up there with my grandpa who I thought must be able to speak to fish. I probably whistled the tune from Mr Ensley's show about as much as the one from Mayberry RFD. I hope that I can make that kind of lasting positive impression on some youngster. My sympathy and prayers to you all.
RT Bruch
January 17, 2008
I have fished with man. He was a dear friend. He encouraged me as a kid to take fishing proffesionaly. The last time i fished with him i was 16 yrs old. We fished Wild Wood lake in in Raytown Missouri. We slayed those little bass that day. He was using his world famous ensley reapor. I stayed with what i know best the old Fire Tiger Shad Rap. It was good time. A time i'll nevor forget. A time i nevor shared with anybody until today. Harold was my child hood mentor. I wanted to be like him. Now at 36 i think my day has come to do just what i promised him i would. That is become a profesional fisherman.
Barry Kaaz
December 19, 2007
I grew up watching Harold Ensley with my dad. Met him as a kid at the Sportsmans Show in Kansas City. Many decades later as an adult I met him again at another exhibit show-it brought tears to my eyes for the memories it brought back. What a pioneer and what a great man.
kari price
November 28, 2007
Mr Ensley used to fish with my grandfather many years ago and he gave my dad his first open faced fishing pole. He fished with the kellers and the kysers. I knew him enough as a girl that when our school went to his taping, and he saw me he spoke to me by name and all the kids thought it was so neat. I was very sad to see that he had passed and my best wishes are with his family.
Brad Stueber
November 13, 2007
I grew up watching Harold Ensley's fishing show on television in Kansas City and went through school in Raytown with his daughter Sandra. So sorry to hear he is gone and am praying for his family and friends.
Raymond (Cousin Clem) Pittam
October 27, 2007
Being away from the midwest and Missouri since the late 1970's, I was unaware of Harold dying. I'm starting a new fishing business here in Redding, California and wanted to see what Harold had to offer. I entered his name and just learned of his death. Harold and I have fished several times together, and enjoyed a lot of laughs. My heart still loves all I learned from Harold.
He was a very famous man in the world of fishing. Even WalMart supported his expertise with marketing his sponsored fishing equipment, fine lures and baits.
Harold my friend, I will never forget the time you, Bob Horseman and I went out on your fine boat on the Warsaw and did that fine fishing. May God always have a fine catch at the end of your line.
J. W. Darby
October 26, 2007
What a gentleman! I got to meet him while I was at a gas station on my way to hunt rabbits. This was 30 years ago and he treated me like I was the celebrity! A great person...we need more like him.
Jeff Hill
September 20, 2007
Mr. Ensley's TV show was a weekly event during the 1960s when I was growing up. My Grandfather had a cabin at Bull Shoals Arkasas and fished there often in the 50s and 60s. I am sure Harold fished there and mybe met my Grandfather.
My sympathy to your family.
Terrence DeGrasso
August 19, 2007
Fishin, instead of just a wishin! Lest we forget.
Lon Hutchison
August 3, 2007
My sister's house is on Ensley Lane in Leawood... Anyway, I watched the show when I was a kid in the 50's and 60's, certainly enjoyed it... the theme song is permanently embedded in my mind. R.I.P., Mr. Ensley.
Marc Hulsey
July 5, 2007
What a great man, I was raised in north Arkansas watching Mr. Harold and Virgil Ward every Saturday on KY3, Im 41 now and thinking back to these two men and my dad they are the reason I have so much love for the outdoors. god bless
Jim Fanning
July 2, 2007
I'll never forget the theme song for The Sportsmen's Friend and the many hours I spent as I grew up watching your father's show. I truly will keep those memories forever.
Mark Augspurger
June 26, 2007
Some of my fondness memories is laying on my grandparents floor in Neosho, MO and watching the Sportsman's Friend with family. Thank you for all the warm memories ....
May God Bless You
Cliff Thomas
June 15, 2007
I will never forget those words when i was little(gone fishin instead, of just, a wishin):( i will miss him tremendously i grew up in pittsburg and moved to hutchinson when i was little now i have had my first kid (a boy) to show how to fish and acurately cast, i have also started my own buisness because Harold Ensley always kept me thinkin positive. So now i hope someday it will take off and i can leave my buisness for my boy, GOD BLESS a fishing buisness Oh, and one other thing he always said was GOD BLESS, thats one thing we all should say every day when we wake up and go to sleep. Thank you Harold up in heaven for keepin my mind on fishin. I will never forget those shows.
Mike Butler
June 2, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of Harold's passing. He was a great inspiration to me. As a kid growing up in Missouri in the late 50's and early 60's, my sister and I watched Harold's show every week. Many times we were at our lake cabin at Keighty's Beach, south of Warsaw, Missouri. We were avid fishermen and Harold would get us so fired up we would run down to the lake as soon as we could, fishing gear in hand, and beat the water to a froth. Many times we caught a mess of crappie on the ol' Tiny Tot jigs. My uncle knew I loved to watch Harold's fishing show and one day he came home with an autographed picture of Harold for me. I was so proud of that picture that I taped it in the top of my tackle box. Every time I opened my box, there was Harold wishing me good fishing! As I grew older I went to college and eventually became a wildlife biologist. I know for a fact that Harold Ensley enstilled in me a great passion for the outdoors, fishing, hunting, and working with kids to be better sportsmen and women. I was in Kansas City back in 2003 and went to the KC Boat, Sports, and Travel Show. You can't imagine my excitement to find Harold there selling his book. I bought two copies, one for my sis and one for me. He personalized each book for us and signed it as our friend. I got some great pictures of us together. When I went to see my sis, I gave her a copy of the book and we took a trip down memory lane back to those great days fishing at the cabin. It brought tears to both of our eyes. In closing I just want to say that Harold Ensley was a great inspiration to me as a kid. I can still see my family sitting around the television, a fire crackling in our fireplace, enjoying one of Harold's adventures. Those were wonderful times and I still get tears in my eyes thinking back to those days. Goodbye, Harold! I just know you have "gone fishin...." but you have another great audience with our Lord in Heaven. You, too, have some great fishing up there, my friend!
George Kirtley
May 30, 2007
I was on his show with a big Bass in the mid 50's, I was about 15 at the time. I've never forgotten the experience. He was an outstanding role model for young outdoorsmen.
Bill Stewart
April 29, 2007
The Ensley family attended the same church in Raytown in my early teen years as my family. I sat there in the pew and watched Harold and Bonnie come in and sit sometimes in the back row. They would stay until the communion was served and the plate was passed and would quietly slip out the door. Harold always had time for God in his life even the times he had to catch a midday flight on Sunday to an adventure to some exotic fishing paradise to places unheard of by me. My father didn't share my interest in fishing and hunting and I always watched Harold on TV and logged in my memory every detail he would provide on his show. I learned to fillet fish with an electric knife to my amazement. I always made it a point to stop at Harolds booth at the Sportshow each year and talk to him. I had always said that my first son would be named Dusty. I had two daughters and I'm still trying to get one of them to name my grandson Dusty. He will remain number one on my list of heros with Hoppy, Roy and Gene. Rest in peace Harold. We miss you greatly.
Darrel Wolters
April 26, 2007
I am 64 years old and was sitting watching a fishing program this evening, and a light struck as I wondered what happened to the one and only Harold Ensley. Living in Western Kansas I had never heard about the death of Harold. My deepest belated sympathy to the family.
Dusty, on 9-27-67, our first son was born and I told my wife the only name I wanted for him was "Dusty", Harold Ensleys son. I had watched many father-son episodes for years on TV, and his Christian and calm mannerisms,were dreams of what I thought a father and son relationship, should be. So Dusty as I searched internet this evening, and found the sobering news; your family made a great impact on 1000's of families. That was when TV was wholesome, but also a reality show. My Dusty is a great kid of almost 40 years old this fall, great family and we are proud of him, just like your dad was of you. God Bless you and yours and thanks for sharing fishing memories with all of us. Of course I am wondering what is happening in your life now, but I know with his loving hand, he would still be proud of you.
Wayne Peterson
March 28, 2007
I can remember watchin' Gone fishin' of which I'll always treasure. I reckon he's fishin' up in Heaven.
chris stewart
March 26, 2007
I've never forgotten watching "The Sporsman's Friend" Harold Ensley's TV shows. I grew up in Wichita, KS, back in the 60's and 70's and I always loved watching his TV show. Many a times I've sang the parting song to myself, "gone fishin, instead of just a wishin".
Thank you for the memories, let's go fishing when I get to heaven.
Brian Moses
March 16, 2007
A few years ago in Hays Kansas I was ran off the road by an old guy in an old green station wagon with something wrote on the side. Instead of going off I just thought aah what the heck,,,, then it hit me what it said on the side of that car. I followed the car to the Holiday Inn and guess who got out. I walked up to him and asked(I already new) are you the man who's name is on the side of this car? He said no,,,, thats my brother,, I said no,, and shook his hand,, I know who you are,, Your Harold Ensley. He said yes nice to meet you. After some small talk I asked if we could exchange some fishing stories some time, he said sure,, come on in we can set in the lounge right now.
After talking for a while one of the major highlights of my life was when Harold Ensley asked me to take him fishing!!!
Sadly we never got to go fishing together but I will always proudly remember the day he asked me to take him to my secret ponds.
Harold was a good man and was loved by many.
We will miss you Harold,,,, Your this Fishermans Friend.
Jon Lawrence
March 7, 2007
I interviewed Mr. Ensley for a cable TV show I was working on in the early 1990's in St. Louis, MO. He was the first interview I ever did and he made it easy for me with his relaxed and humorous manner. I really enjoyed meeting him and could tell he had a deep love of fishing and the outdoors.
Shannon Napier
March 4, 2007
When i was a kid in the 1980s our local telivision network would show "Gone Fishing" on saturday mornings. I was about 7yrs old on a spring morning and woke up early that morning about 6am to play outside on our farm but first i had to see my saturday morning cartoons. That morning i turned on the tv and was greeted by Mr.Ensley and was "hooked" from then on. Growing up in a big fishing and outdoor family i loved his show and if i didnt wake up in time to watch it on saturdays i would be so dissapointed it was almost like i had missed getting to talk with my best friend. There was something about not just the show but Mr. Ensley he seemed like such a good and kind man almost like a Grandfather or someone close to me from my church. Im 31 now and fish all the time as always and I will never forget Mr. Ensley and our saturday morning Fishing Trips. Thank you Sir for your show and fishing tips but most of all giving a 7yr old kid a friend to go fishing with for many years.
Curtis Arbuckle
February 27, 2007
Harold was a wonderful person I had the opertunity to go pheasent hunting with him when I was 16. He came out to central Kansas North of Great Bend and Hunted with my grandfather, and I got to go along. Greatest thrill of my life. I grew up watching him on TV. still fish to this day because of him and my grandfather. Just bought a ABU Garcia Ensley sigusure rod. Made me think of him everytime I will use it
George Ensley
February 11, 2007
What a wonderfull person, I first followed Harolds TV shows because of our common surname but gained a lot of respect for him over a period of time as a good human being.
Mike Hamilton
December 26, 2006
I grow up in Wichita Kansas watching Harolds show untill I was thirteen and moved to Washingtion State. At age 60 know I am still inspired with my childhood memories of Harolds shows. Harold was a wonderfull childhood mentor for myself and my best friend Fred. I still hunt and fish thanks to Harold, my father and my best friends father who are all in the same place. Thanks you Harold for the wonderfull childhood memerioes.
Steven Schrater
December 7, 2006
I remember being told by my father that my Great Grandmother (HOFBAUER) used to babysit Harold Ensley while in(Lane Co. Kansas?). My Grandmother Marie HOFBAUER SCHRATER remembered him. When Harold was in Great Bend, Kansas at a store selling and promoting his fishing knives I asked him if he remembered my Great Grandmother. He said "Yes I remember her. she didn't speak much english but she sure could spank"
I watched his shows often while living in Kansas.
Steve Gross
October 12, 2006
Harold was an amazing man. I remember watching him on TV with my dad as a small child. When I got older I worked for a movie camera shop just east of the Plaza called ESO-S Pictures owned by a gentleman named Harry Hilfinger. I was excited when Harold Ensley walk in to have his film developed for his most recent TV show, as he had done for many years, my very first day on the job. I never thought I would ever meet him in person. He was a wonderful delightful person. I'll never forget him driving up every week or so in his red station wagon. I now edit a new fishing TV show called Urban American Outdoor show Produced by another person that Harold touched and inspired named Wayne Hubbard. I still play the "Gone Fishin'" theme song by Bing Crosby & Louis Armstrong and think of Harold once in a while.
Gary Darnell
October 10, 2006
Growing up in the Ozarks, I watched Harold's show many times as a kid. My grandfather and I were fishing buddies and used to talk about the program frequently. One of my biggest thrills was bumping into Harold in a Wal-Mart parking lot here in Fayetteville. I recognized him immediately! He was unloading a cooler full of crappie to take inside the store to do some sort of a filet knife demonstration. It was a real thrill to meet him after all those years.
Bill Patera
August 24, 2006
One year since his passing. Among the most memorable events of my early childhood is sitting with my father watching the weekly adventures of Harold, Bonnie and Dusty fishing and exploring the mid-west. Harold and Dusty were often joined by the likes of Pop, Ernie (JR)and the then young Butch Simmons for White Wing shooting in a desolate place called Mesa, Arizona, or Quail hunting way out by Olathe, Kansas. So many times I have dreamed and imagined myself in their company during their outings. I never did find any sharks teeth in Kansas, but I know they are there, Harold showed me.
I met Harold every year for many years at the annual K.C. Boat Sports and Travel show. I always knew (believed) he remembered me and expected me to meet him there standing next to his "Red Ford Country Sedan". He was just that sort of guy.
After many years I again met Harold at Simmons Gun Specialties where I was then employed. I found him to be the same genuine endearing man that I "knew" from the 50's. I was certain he remembered me. I told him of my annual Boat Show outings and standing in line to shake his hand. He said "I wondeered why you quit coming". He was just that sort of guy.
I deeply mourn his passing. Harold was an icon of family values and appreciation of nature and all we have been given.
My deepest thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
Bill Patera
Jean (Sherman) Miller
August 21, 2006
The first time I had the honor of meeting Harold Ensley was over 40 years ago, and we all knew that he was someone very special!!! He had come down to Quick City, Mo. where we lived at that time, to go hunting with my brother-in-law, Jim Higgins. I was married to Genevieve Higgins' brother before he passed away. The next time Harold came down, he brought along his daughter, Sandy, who stayed with me and played with MY daughter, Sandy. We always enjoyed watching the "Sportsman's Friend" on TV, and visiting with him in later years, when Jim & Genevieve would have their wonderful Quick City Reunion pig-roasts. He was a wonderful man who is missed by many, but I know he is happy, as he has "Gone Fishin" with Jesus in Heaven!!!
Peter Rauch
August 14, 2006
Many warm memories of Mr. Ensley and his adventures. Takes me back to my spot stretched out on the living room floor in front of the old black and white TV. A good man.
Jeff Leonard
June 15, 2006
I remeber as a young boy watching Harold on a small black and white television. Each week he'd take me on an adventure that I could only dream of.
At the conclusion of every episode I'd tell everyone that I wanted to grow up and be just like him. Much like a verse from his theme song...I’m a wishing… I could be that kind of fool…I’d say no more work for mine… on my door I’d hang a sign….Gone Fishing Instead of Just a Wishin!
Recently, I started writing for the outdoors section of the local newspaper. I know that watching his show helped to make me the outdoorsman I am today.
As I listened to his theme song this evening on the internet a tear came to my eye. Thanks for the Dreams and Weekly Adventures Harold...you will be missed!
If anybody asks me where old Ensley went....I'll tell 'em, he's GONE FISHING!"
Randy Langhover
June 12, 2006
I'm 56, and as a kid in Wichita, I wouldnt miss Harolds Sat. afternoon program. My grandfather had a ranch on Table Rock Lake, which I grew up on, and I think we saw Harold and Dusty a few times there around Cape Fair. Mostly I
remember him and my neighbor J.D. Fletcher taking him out and catching lots of fish. I just like to think of him at the end of every show when he said, "you never know where we'll be fishing next, but we'll be in that red Ford
country sedan". If heaven has a lake, thats where we'll find Harold.
Stan Cropp
March 26, 2006
With tears in my eyes after just now finding my dear old television fishing buddy's website; I have to sign in. My only contact with Harold Ensley was through watching his show as as a child. Somehow, I always knew him without without having ever met him. I believe that knowing Harold's goodness came from his Christian faith and goodness touching my heart. He has been an inspiration in my life which I have passed along to my children.
Thank you Mr. Harold Ensley. You made a difference. Good fishing, good hunting, until we meet again.
Doug Duncan
March 14, 2006
I'll look forward to seeing Harold in Heaven. I moved to Wyoming so I could fish. Harold and my Grandpa put that desire in me even tho I had lived in a big city all my life.
I remember watching Harold on his TV shows and I enjoyed them so much.
To the Ensley family, I am sorry for your and our loss. But he's with His Lord now and I'll see him and Him someday soon
God bless
hl kirk
February 18, 2006
i watched mr ensley for years. todays shows miss the mark by a mile.fishing is not a commercial. i met him in arkansas a couple of times.everytime i see a ford country squire wagon(which isn't often anymore) i think of him.the man was a benchmark. hl kirk mississippi iowa wapsipinicon white missouri feather rogue umpqua rivers bull shoals norfork pommemde terre ozarks oroville siltcoos lakes pacific ocean and best of all kansas farm ponds and strip pits
Eugene Nelms
February 12, 2006
I grew up in Wichita, Kansas and used to love to watch Harold's show with my dad. He brought a lot of joy to all of us who watched him each week.
Showing 1 - 100 of 214 results
Make a Donation
in Harold Ensley's name
How to support Harold's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Harold Ensley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more