I just found out last night that one of my old friends from junior high school/high school was found dead in the Delaware River a few months ago after his canoe capsized. He wasn't wearing a life jacket. Don't act macho or think that you will be fine or that it can't happen to you. Wear a life jacket if you go out into moving water. It's a small inconvenience. He would have been 40 in a month, and he leaves behind a wife and 2 kids.
So sorry to hear about your friend! And just in the prime of his life! Good reminder...my son who is 58, is a kayaker and takes trips to the Gulf and I do feel concern but, he assured me that they always go in pairs and do not take risks! In some things, people need to think safety, no matter how skilled you are!