The Birthday Boy…

Happy Birthday to Papa. He is truly amazing and I only hope I am able to be in such good shape if I ever get to be his age. Richard and I are very glad to be here and spending so much time with him. Instead of making a list of his many attributes I would like to list a few of his many accomplishments.

He joined the military at seventeen years old during WWII. He managed to get through the difficult pilot training to become a fighter pilot. Although that war ended before he flew any missions, he served in the Korean War. After his decorated service there he came back to the States and became an instructor pilot. During this time he became part of the original air demonstration team known as the Air Force Thunderbirds. He flew the slot position on that team with Major Dick Catledge as team leader, Buck and Bill Patillo flying the wing positions.

He met, courted and married his life long love, married for time and all eternity so our family can be together forever. He he was a wonderful son to his parents, brought honor to their name and happiness to their lives. He has held many church callings and served with great commitment and integrity. 

After leaving the Air Force honorably and serving in the Arizona Air National Guard, he was called up in the ’60's to protect the Berlin Corridor. 

He farmed and raised cotton, potatoes, lettuce, and other crops. 

He has flown for the Forest Service piloting B-17's in many states during fire seasons. He used his GI bill to further his education and was typed in helicopters. He has flown corporate planes for many companies and has traveled all over the United States and the world. 

He is a loving father and grandfather to us all. For a boy from a very small town in Kansas he has done incredible things in his life. He would rather be doing something than sitting doing nothing. He is an inspiration to us all and we love him so very much. Have a happy day Papa - and many more to come.