Crossing Lake Superior at about 13 knots, the boats encountered a massive winter storm, reporting winds in excess of 50 knots and waves as high as 35 feet (10 m). Because of the storm,the Soo Locks were closed. The freighters altered their courses northward, seeking shelter along the Canadian coast. Later, they would cross to Whitefish Bay and approach the Sault Ste. Marie locks.
On the afternoon of November 10 Fitzgerald reported a minor list developing and top-side damage including the loss of radar, but did not indicate a serious problem. She slowed to come within range of receiving Anderson's radar data and for a time Anderson guided the Fitzgerald toward the relative safety of Whitefish Bay. The last communication from the boat came at approximately 19:10 (7:10 PM), when Anderson notified Fitzgerald of being hit by rouge waves or perhaps seiche waves large enough to be caught on radar, that were heading Fitzgerald's way and asked how she was doing. McSorley reported, "We are holding our own." A few minutes later, she suddenly sank – no distress signal was received. A short ten minutes later Anderson could neither raise Fitzgerald nor detect her on radar At 20:32, Anderson informed the U.S. Coast Guard of their concern for the boat."The SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank, taking all 29 crew with her.
November 10, 1975, the men who diligently served on this vessel lost their lives. 29 families lost their husbands, fathers, and brothers to the vast Superior waters.
Now, 32 years later, we remember. We'll remember their smiles and their hearts. We'll always remember.
May all 29 men continue to rest in peace.
