MDS Search and Rescue team brings closure for family of missing Lotus band members

The MDS Search and Rescue (SAR) team, working with local emergency officials and rescue teams, recovered the bodies of Lotus Drummer Chuck Morris and his son, Charley, 24 days after they went missing.

Lotus is an instrumental electronic jam band formed in Indiana in 1999.

On March 16, 47-year-old Morris and his 20-year-old son vanished after going on a kayaking trip around the Lost Bridge Village of Beaver Lake area.

Ted Hostetler, MDS SAR team leader, said the men went out in kayaks on Beaver Lake at a time with gusting winds and large waves. “We can only assume that they capsized,” said Hostetler. “The kayaks were found.”

The MDS SAR team worked closely with local search and rescue authorities at the lake, which in some places is more than 200 feet deep. “This location was in Benton County, which is the next county west from where we live,” explained Hostetler. “We have sonar equipment and are very active in in searching for missing people, especially water-related.”

Hostetler said that the team, upon recovering the bodies, experienced a wave of emotions and relief that is hard to describe. “After 24 days of having this on all of our minds and knowing there is family that is suffering from losing two of their loved ones, the weight started to lift off our shoulders,” he said. “We thank the Lord for his guidance and leading all during this search.”

Hostetler thanked people for their ongoing prayers. “We have been doing this for 12 years,” he said. “Our strong faith in the God we serve helps and sustains us. Pray for our safety—and we want God to have all the honor and glory.”

Donations may be sent to:

MDS-SAR

1063 CR 708

Berryville, AR 72616