Connie and I had wonderful times with you, John when in Duluth . You were my boss, a Captain at the time and I a no nothing 2nd Lt. You guided me and made me feel very comfortable in my first years. There was no person funnier than you and you were so liked by all. As a neighbor in Capehart housing , we got together with your family often. The time we removed the "Red Bull" mascot from the F106 Fighter Squadron in the dead of night and brought it back to our squadron operation's center was a highlight. We ( two Captain's and two 2nd Lts. had cleared the operation with the main base security personnel and hauled the bull mascot back in a van and much to the enjoyment of our squadron. After a few weeks, we returned it to embarrassed fighter pilots.
We talked a couple of times when you were building the golf course and talked of the earlier years. Connie and I remember your little kids and how they played and rode bikes up and down the street. And you had the smokey and loud Volkswagen Beeetle that was held together with wire I think. You put together our squadron golf team, only 4 of us and on occasion had descent scores but were generally pitiful. Thank you for the memories, John and the friendship. You were unique and a delight. Your friend, Dick.
John was a great leader and mentor, inspiring our BOMARC Interceptor Missile Squadron to achieve Outstanding Unit Awards. He was a bright, joy-filled man who led by example, was always ready to teach, always ready to share a laugh. He helped us become more than we imagined we could be. It was an honor to serve with him.
I am very sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one in death is such a difficult thing to experience. Please be comforted by the promises in the Bible. Jesus tells us at John 5 : 28,29....that all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out. What a loving provision put in place by the God of all comfort so we can have the assured hope of seeing our dead loved ones live again one day soon. Meanwhile as I pray for that day to come I ask Jehovah God to bless your family and give each of you the strength to endure this most trying time. www.JW.org
