Recollections from the Rafters: A Memoir through Short Stories

Drawing inspiration from the hidden treasures in the rafters of his father’s garage, Tom
Bemis creatively builds a collection of memories from his heritage, childhood exploits,
family inventions, caving adventures and narrow escapes, all held together by his
humor, warmth, resilience, and unbounded optimism.
In Recollections from the Rafters, Bemis reflects on his family history, including his
grandfather’s friendship with Kid Curry at a mine in Montana and his father’s
experiences as a pilot in World War II. His career included adventures as a National
Park Service employee, a search-and-rescue coordinator, and a wildland firefighter,
occasionally with flames lapping at his heels.
Bemis emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a way to preserve family history
and inspire future generations. His tales serve as a reminder to cherish curiosity,
creativity, and the connections that shape our lives. Recollections from the Rafters is
a celebration of adventure, family, and the enduring power of shared stories.