Craig Henry (Center) with Erik Anderson as they host EAA Radio’s The Trafic Jam during AirVenture 2012. They are joined by close friends and co-hosts Eric Whyte (Far left) and Kelly Garvin (Far right).
How do you say goodbye to one of the best friends one could ever have?
Years ago while working on my airplane at 02C, I was approached by a man nicknamed Swede with a young Weasel in tow.
The three simple words that he stated “you need help?” became one of the bases of our friendship. Through this chance meeting, I met two of my best friends and have become part of a wonderful family of friends.
Today, Swede went home….
We lost a son, brother, uncle, friend, and the world’s finest teacher.
To his mom and brothers, thank you for sharing him with us.
To his students, thank you for being with him today. Mr. Anderson needed you just as much as you needed him. You were his passion and pride!
To Swede, thank you for being my friend. You were there through all my life’s high and lows. When my mom was gravely ill, you gave me a place to stay, a shoulder to lean on, and swedish pancakes and meatballs.
When I named my airplane grace, you didn’t laugh, you knew why. When I needed advice, you gave guidance, not judgment.
When we needed music, you provided, even if it was 2 a.m. You kept us out of trouble, or in trouble, depending on the view. You gave us a lifetime of memories and laughs. The one thing you did not give us is enough time here with us on earth.
Your leaving creates a void in this family that can’t be filled. By God’s grace I know in my heart that you are in a better place with our other friends that have gone west. Let one of your last teachings be that we all learn to understand just how precious life is and how valuable our time with family and friends becomes.
Now get up there and teach the other angels some acro!
Till we fly together again…