It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our dear friend, Verne Disney. As a longtime member of the Southern California fishing community, Verne's contributions went far beyond just his fishing skills. He was a pillar of camaraderie and shared knowledge, someone whose presence both on the shorelines and online left a lasting impact.
Verne joined Prehistoric Soul at its inception in 2014, becoming one of its earliest and most respected members. His passion for fishing—whether it was targeting surf-dwelling sharks or casting for elusive game fish—was only matched by his generosity in sharing tips, techniques, and his infectious love for the sport. His presence on the Southern California Surf Fishing (SCSF) forum was equally significant. Verne was known not only for the impressive catches he posted, but for the wisdom he imparted and the friendships he cultivated.
Those who had the pleasure of fishing alongside Verne often spoke about how his humor and humility made any trip memorable. Whether the bite was hot or the fish weren't biting at all, he had a way of keeping spirits high. He found joy in the simple things—like the sound of waves crashing or the satisfaction of a well-cast line—and that joy was contagious to everyone around him.
Verne's legacy goes beyond the fish he caught or the advice he gave. He embodied what it means to be part of a community. Whether it was through online forums or at meetups along the Southern California shores, Verne connected with people and made lasting friendships. His posts on both Prehistoric Soul and SCSF were often a mix of helpful tips, humorous anecdotes, and genuine encouragement, making him a valued member of both online and offline worlds.
As we remember Verne, we hold onto the countless stories shared on the surf and through the community pages. His love for the ocean and its mysteries, his steady presence in our discussions, and the way he lived with kindness and passion will stay with us.
Rest in peace, Verne. You will be greatly missed, but your legacy in the fishing community will live on through the stories we share and the fish we continue to chase in your honor.
*Respect*
Feel free to post your memories of Verne as well as pictures here. I'm going to sticky this.
(https://i.imgur.com/6VIZHeP.jpg)
I just got a call from Ron aka Fishjerk ...... Rest in Peace Verne My friend. He was a good respectable man with a huge heart of gold. He always made sure to call me on my birthday every year. Many years ago he took myself and my daughter Tara hunting Bats and Leos at Escondido with great success. I even have two of his custom sand spikes he made for us. I always thought he would live forever because he was a real fighter..... I guess GOD decided it was time.
Ouch, this is the first I'm hearing of this. Verne was one of the first SCSF guys I met in person and we fished Bu together often. I hope you're fishing in heaven buddy. :'(
I remember when I really started trying for the Sevengill up north, he saw me trying, and PM'd me to give him a phone call. So I did, and he was super open. He gave me enough intel to keep going and I ended with my first, 2nd, and 3rd sevengills shortly after. I was really impressed with his willingness to help, and I felt he deserved much pleasantness back to him.
I shared the sand with him a few times, a good number of warm and informative phone calls, and of course online posts. It may not sound like a whole ton, but the more I reflect on him after this news, the more I realize what a good person has just returned to the earth.
I had the honor of knowing Verne since I was 17. To this day, I've yet to meet someone on the sand as kind and generous as him. His wisdom and willingness to help people getting into the sport put me on my first 7 gill, legal halibut, and white seabass from the beach. He was a truly special person, a wealth of information and knowledge on our local waters. His kindness and generosity were proven time and time again when I would fish on the pier with him and his dad. I'll miss his texts for every holiday and his genuine congratulations after a milestone catch. I owe much of my success from the sand to him. Malibu and the fishing community have lost a good one. Thanks for all the help over the last 6 years Verne, rest in peace, my friend.
Verne's Obituary and Memorial information.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/verne-disney-iii-obituary?id=56519938
: Fish Jerk October 16, 2024, 11:56:25 pVerne's Obituary and Memorial information.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/verne-disney-iii-obituary?id=56519938
Thank you for that
I'm not able to make it up to Verne's Celebration of Life tomorrow, so I want to throw this out there to you guys. I haven't gone surf shark fishing in a bit and was thinking about planning a night to do so. I was thinking have a few of us there to have our own little celebration for him with some beers, fishing and comradery. Would anyone be interested? I'm thinking food, beverage, and ceremonial picture but just want to see what you guys think?
: Latimeria October 25, 2024, 12:33:36 pI'm not able to make it up to Verne's Celebration of Life tomorrow, so I want to throw this out there to you guys. I haven't gone surf shark fishing in a bit and was thinking about planning a night to do so. I was thinking have a few of us there to have our own little celebration for him with some beers, fishing and comradery. Would anyone be interested? I'm thinking food, beverage, and ceremonial picture but just want to see what you guys think?
I would be down for that.
For those who would like to attend Verne's Celebration of life tomorrow at surf rider beach the gathering will be on the sand between the homes and the lifeguard station at 9am.
Damn, this sucks. I liked that dude. RIP.
: mdcesq February 06, 2025, 05:16:49 pDamn, this sucks. I liked that dude. RIP.
It caught everyone off guard. Apparently had a stroke and no one found him for a bit. When they did, he had to be on a respirator. Terrible news.