Followup:
Thursday, July 14, 2005 - Page updated at 04:35 PM
Body believed to be missing Seattle canoeist recovered
The Associated Press
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. — The body of a man believed to have drowned when his canoe capsized two weeks ago was recovered today, park officials said.
Joseph R. Miller, 59, of Seattle, was last seen July 2 paddling in rough water on the northeast section of Lewis Lake, which lies about 8 miles south of West Thumb Junction.
At the time, 2- to 4-foot waves and wind of 25-35 mph were noted, and the water temperature was 54 degrees, rangers said in a release.
Miller was alone and not wearing a life jacket, officials said.
Late that afternoon, a backpack, life jacket, canoe and other items belonging to Miller were found on shore.
Using sonar, an independent contractor located the body this morning about 800 feet from shore, in water 31 feet deep. A dive team retrieved the body, and autopsy was ordered.