The words you spoke are quite powerful and passionate. He was indeed a special gentleman. I am sorry for your loss. Your internet family here has you in thought and prayer. Eric

Someday we will know, where the pilots go
When their work on earth is through.
Where the air is clean, and the engines gleam,
And the skies are always blue.

They have flown alone, with the engine's moan,
As they sweat the great beyond,
And they take delight, at the awesome sight
of the world spread far and yon.

Yet not alone, for above the moan,
when the earth is out of sight,
As they make their stand, He takes their hand,
and guides them through the night.

How near to God are these men of sod,
Who step near death's last door?
Oh, these men are real, not made of steel,
But He knows who goes before.

And how they live, and love and are beloved,
But their love is most for air.
And with death about, they will still fly out,
And leave their troubles there.

He knows these things, of men with wings,
And He knows they are surely true.
And He will give a hand, to such a man
'Cause He's a pilot too.

GT..The thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt poems expressed here leave me with the reality of the passion we feel for our fellow flyers. I cannot, nor will I try to better express my sorrow for the loss of someone so dear to you..these fellow flyers have said it better.
Ernie